Lt 1, 1903
White, W. C.; White, J. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
December 28, 1902
Dear Willie and Edson,—
I have been trying lately to write on the life of Solomon, and I have two manuscripts ready for the copying.
I have read Edson’s little book The Story of Joseph, and I am certain that it is books of this kind that are needed in the Southern field.
It is several years since light was given me in regard to the need of publishing small books containing Bible stories and others containing some part of the Bible printed as a whole. It pains me to see so many magazines in the homes of the people. Those who cultivate an appetite for such reading do themselves great harm. Can we not provide something better for them?
The books of Daniel and the Revelation should be bound together and published. A few explanations of certain portions might be added, but I am not sure that these would be needed.
This is the suggestion that I made to Elder Haskell, which resulted in the book that he published. The need is not filled by this book. It was my idea to have the two books bound together, Revelation following Daniel, as giving fuller light on the subjects dealt with in Daniel. The object is to bring these books together, showing that they both relate to the same subjects.
Lt 2, 1903
White, J. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 1, 1903
Dear Son Edson,—
I wish to write you a few words in regard to your proposition with reference to the first four chapters of Patriarchs and Prophets. I cannot promise to do what you ask; for the preparation of these chapters would take the time that I need for writing on the life of Solomon and the history of Israel following his reign. I want to move intelligently and wisely, not hurriedly.
I suppose that W. C. is with you. Counsel with him. He will be able to tell you better than I could what should be done about this matter. I should do nothing without his judgment.
Yesterday morning we heard that the Review and Herald Publishing building has been burned to the ground. How sad this is! The financial loss that the fire will be to the cause, we do not yet know. I hear that nothing was saved.
This disaster may make a decided change in affairs. I hope that our brethren will heed the lesson that God is trying to teach them, and that they will not rebuild the publishing house in Battle Creek. God means that we shall not locate in the cities; for there are very stormy times before us.
We have no time now to spend in contention; the moments are too precious.
Do nothing, my son, that will give any one occasion to speak evil of you. And if any one speaks evil of you without occasion, do not retaliate; it will not pay. Let us cherish the tenderness and love of Christ. We are to accuse no man wrongfully, and if we are wrongfully accused, we are to refuse to be provoked. We are to utter no word in retaliation.
Try to live peaceably with all men, and let the atmosphere surrounding your soul be sweet and fragrant. The Lord hears every unwise word that is spoken. If you will battle against selfish human nature, you will go forward steadily in the work of overcoming hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. By patience, longsuffering, and forbearance you will accomplish much. Remember that you cannot be humiliated by the unwise speeches of someone else, but that when you answer unwisely, you lose a victory that you might have gained. Be very careful of your words.
I shall be willing to do almost anything that you and Brother Palmer, after consulting with Willie, think is best. I should like to give you something that would help the South. But it will be best for you to counsel with W. C. in regard to preparing books for this field.
I cannot write more today.
Lt 3, 1903
White, J. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 1, 1903
My dear Son Edson,—
I have just read your letter in which you propose to take your printing work away from the Nashville publishing house, and in which you make inquiry in regard to the advisability of securing a printing press and the other facilities necessary for printing your books. I can see, as well as you, that if there is not an entire change in sentiment, the only thing you can do is to withdraw your work from the office there. If you have to do this, be careful not to show any spirit of triumph or retaliation.
But if you disconnect from the publishing house, and still remain in the Southern field, will not some of the brethren try to hinder the sale of your books? If you remain, I think it is best for you to be given the same position of influence that you have held in the past. This is your right. Three times the Lord has presented to me, in symbols, that you should not be set aside as one who has no voice in the management of the work in the Southern field.
If the same spirit that has been manifested will continue to be manifested, it might be best for you to sever your connection with the Southern work. Leave the field, if compelled to, and give into the hands of your brethren the work that you have been carrying forward. By all means quietly step out, giving your brethren the field, if they make it too hard for you.
I am writing you this after reading your letter in which you propose going away where you can be by yourself. You cannot endure constant friction. I know this would not be best for you or for your brethren. I hardly know how to advise you, as I have had no special light from the Lord. If your work is to be hedged up, if you are to be subjected to constant annoyances, I wish you could leave that section of the country, and take up a work in Southern California—possibly in San Diego, or in Fernando, where the Conference school is located. This winter you could come to “Elmshaven” and take up work on my books, or write books, as you might choose. We should be glad to have you connect with us and would find a place for you. However, these are merely suggestions.
My dear son, follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit. Walk humbly with God. Value His favor more highly than everything else. Remember that the Lord Jesus is your best Friend, your constant Guardian.
With love.
Lt 4, 1903
Caro, Brother and Sister [E. R.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 3, 1903
Dear brother and sister Caro,—
God calls for the service of the whole being. He will not accept a divided heart, a service given partly to Him and partly to self. When the lawyer came to Christ with the question, “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Christ answered, “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” And he answering said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thy self.” And Christ said, “Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.]
Christ came to reinstate in the earth the divine government, to vindicate God’s holy law, to make an end of transgression, and to bring in everlasting righteousness for His people. The completeness of His atonement is the assurance that as we give ourselves to God, we shall be accepted in the Beloved.
The Saviour is now pleading before the throne of God in our behalf—our compassionate, sympathetic, faithful high priest. “It became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering. … In all things it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted.” “We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” [Hebrews 2:10, 17, 18; 4:15.]
In order to be our Redeemer, Christ must know by experience what we suffer. He must know what is meant by a wounded, bleeding heart. He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. He was made perfect through suffering. He knows how to sympathize with and help a suffering church. Then let those who are in trouble bring their sorrows to one who can help them—One who is too wise to err and too good to do them harm.
In order to become acquainted with the disappointments and trials and griefs that come to human beings, Christ reached to the lowest depths of woe and humiliation. He has traveled the path that He asks His followers to travel. He says to them, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] But professing Christians are not always willing to practice the self-denial that the Saviour calls for. They are not willing to bind about their wishes and desires in order that they may have more to give to the Lord. One says, “My family are expensive in their tastes, and it costs much to keep them.” This shows that he and they need to learn the lessons of economy taught by the life of Christ
One family that indulges expensive tastes will spend in self-gratification money sufficient to support two families with proper economy. I would advise those whose tastes are so expensive not to connect with a work that calls for constant self-denial and self-sacrifice.
To all comes the temptation to gratify selfish, extravagant desires, but let us remember that the Lord of life and glory came to this world to teach humanity the lesson of self-denial. Just before His ascension He gave His disciples the work to which they were to make all else subordinate. “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” He said. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]
Think of the greatness of the work before God’s people. The world is to be warned. To all parts of the earth the message of present truth is to be carried. This work calls for means. Those who are inclined to be extravagant must overcome their desire to indulge self. Only thus can they be true followers of Christ. Those who take the name of Christian are to follow their Leader. He resigned His high position in the heavenly courts. Laying off His kingly crown and royal robe, He clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might lay hold of divinity, becoming partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. He died for sinful human beings, that they might live forever in the kingdom of God.
I ask those who live in the vanity of self-indulgence, Will you continue to act as if there rested on you no responsibility to practice self-denial? For what purpose are you living? What good are you accomplishing? Can you afford to live for self? Can you gain eternal life while you live thus? Has not God a place and a work for you? Is there not something more for you to do than merely to please and gratify self?
Sister Caro, you are not a happy woman, because you do not view things in a right light. You are not satisfied. Forget self, and work for others. Use in unselfish service the powers of body and mind. Thus you will find true happiness. Thus is the use that God intended you to make of the human machinery, and upon this use of it depends its harmonious action.
There are higher attainments for you. No longer cherish such an exalted idea of yourself that you are unwilling to do for others the work that your Lord and Master did while on this earth.
There is much for us to learn from God’s great book of nature. Notice the loveliness of the roses and the lilies and the pinks. Educate yourself to love these beautiful things. Draw from them lessons of trust, and teach these lessons to your little one. Pointing to the lilies, Christ said, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow, they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” [Matthew 6:28-30.]
My sister, do not rest content to be merely an ornament. Such a life will never satisfy a mind created to grasp eternal realities. Within your reach are God’s choicest blessings. You can have them if you will awake to the thought that you have a higher life to live than you have been living. Will you not use your physical, mental, and moral powers in the Master’s service? Your husband needs your help in planning to reduce the expenses of his family. In the near future this will have to be done. Help your husband by personal activity. Do not live for self-gratification. This will never bring you real happiness.
I am intensely desirous that you shall rise above the dwarfing ideas that you have entertained with regard to what constitutes a lady. These ideas are altogether out of harmony with God’s ideas, and therefore your mind is sick, diseased. It does not meet the mind of Him who has bought you with a price. You yourself are not satisfied with your attainments. How can you be? As you are now, life’s prospects cannot appear altogether inviting. Life’s realities must be painfully oppressive to your sensitive, discouraged feelings.
But it is not too late for you to make an effort to be a useful wife and mother. With the simple, childlike confidence that it is the privilege of every Christian to have, believe that you will yet see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Remember that the Lord designed your life to be a blessing to those around you. He has a higher standard for you to reach than you have yet reached. Do not spend your time and strength in the effort to be a lady in the eyes of the world. She who is a true lady in God’s sight is the one whose life is filled with good works.
You need not be an invalid, and you will not be unless you allow wrong ideas and habits to make you thus. If you would bring into your life the principles of genuine health reform, this would have a saving influence on yourself and your husband.
Christ prayed for His disciples, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” [John 17:15.] This prayer is the rule by which you are to regulate your life. Those who receive the Spirit of Christ realize that there is in His words more than appears on the surface. The Christianity of the true believer looks beneath the surface and sees in Christ’s teaching a religion perfectly adapted to every human being—a religion ever actively engaged in doing good.
The cultivation of the intellect is not of the right order if it lifts the mind above the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. We need to exercise faith, faith in hearing God’s Word and faith in practicing it. No one who lives is at liberty to do as he pleases. Christ has pointed out the path in which every one is to travel. “Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat; because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]
I entreat you and your husband, my dear sister, to be trees of righteousness. Profession is worthless without corresponding practice. Christ declares, “Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, and figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” [Verses 16-20.]
Lt 5, 1903
Daniells, A. G.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 5, 1903
Dear brother Daniells,—
Today I received your letter in regard to the destruction of the Review and Herald Office. I had already received news of the disaster from Brother C. H. Jones, who wrote to me in regard to the telegram that you sent. I am afflicted with all who are afflicted. I know that this must be a very trying time for the brethren in charge of the work and for the employees of the office. I feel very sad as I consider the loss to the cause. But I expected to hear the news even before now. In my diary I had written out the description of a scene that had been presented to me, in which I saw an angel standing with a sword as of fire stretched over Battle Creek.
This morning I was drawn out in earnest prayer that the Lord would lead all who are connected with the Review and Herald office to make diligent search, that they may see wherein they have disregarded the many messages God has given.
Some time ago you wrote to me in regard to putting an addition to the Review and Herald on a piece of land from which an old building had been removed. At the time I wrote you regarding the inconsistency of erecting more buildings in Battle Creek. I had no courage to send this letter, knowing that it would have no greater weight than other testimonies that have been sent. I did send one letter then. I will find the one I did not send and let you have it. In it I said that if those who were in favor of adding another building to the Review and Herald had the future mapped out before them, if they could see what would be in Battle Creek, they would have no question in regard to putting up another building there. God said, “My word has been despised; and I will turn and overturn.”
At the last General Conference in Battle Creek, the Lord gave all evidence that the testimonies were of divine origin. Minds were convicted, and hearts were touched; but thorough work was not done. If stubborn hearts had then broken in penitence before God, there would have been seen one of the greatest manifestations of the power of God that has ever been seen. But God was not honored. The testimonies of His Spirit were not heeded. Men did not separate from the practices that were in decided opposition to the principles of truth and righteousness, which should ever be maintained in the Lord’s work.
The messages to the church of Ephesus and to the church in Sardis have been often repeated to me by the One who gives me instruction for His people. “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:1-5.]
“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write: These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received, and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 3:1-3.]
Never have Scriptures been more strictly fulfilled than these have been. We have been given two fulfilments of these warnings. How many more shall we have to have?
You ask me, Elder Daniells, if I have any advice to give. I answer, Not now. I have given the advice that God has given me, hoping to prevent the falling of the fiery sword that was hanging over Battle Creek. Now that which I dreaded has come.
Men may erect the most carefully constructed, fireproof buildings, but one touch of God’s hand, one spark from heaven, will sweep away every refuge.
I dare not give advice. A few weeks ago, while the council meeting at Battle Creek was in session, I was walking my room at night, in an agony of spirit, bowed down under a heavy burden. I would not place on paper all that was presented to me at that time, neither do I feel at liberty do so now. Some of the things presented to me have come to pass. But by the turning of the wheel of providence, God has prevented many things that otherwise would have been worked out.
I shall never, never be able to describe the scenes presented to me. For three nights in succession, I thought that the last hours of my life had come. Then relief came. But again scenes were presented to me, and night after night, an awful weight rested on me. At last the Lord in His great mercy lifted the burden from me. When the news came of the burning of the Review and Herald, I felt no surprise, and I had no words to speak. What I have had to say from time to time in warnings has had no effect, except to harden those who heard; and now I can only say, I am so sorry, so very sorry, that it was necessary for this stroke to come. What you should do, I am not the one to say. Light enough has been given. If it were acted upon, further light would not be needed. Go to God for yourselves.
We are pilgrims and strangers in this world, traveling a path beset with dangers from those who have rejected the only One who could save them. Ingenious subterfuges and scientific problems will be held out before us, to tempt us to swerve from our allegiance, but we are not to heed them. Everyone must now seek God for himself. Christ visited John on the lonely isle of Patmos and gave him instruction for the church in these last days. Let us become acquainted with this instruction. Let us have more to say about it.
To our people, ministers, and lay members, I am instructed to say, “Seek ye the Lord, while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord”—for many ministers and people are walking in strange paths—“and He will have mercy upon them; and to our God; for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]
This is the only message I have now to give. Let every soul be on the alert. The adversary is on your track. Be vigilant, watching carefully lest some carefully concealed and masterly snare shall take you unawares. Let the careless and indifferent beware lest the day of the Lord come upon them as a thief in the night. Many will wander from the path of humility, and, casting aside the yoke of Christ, will walk in strange paths. Blinded and bewildered, they will> leave the narrow path that leads to the city of God.
A man cannot be a happy Christian unless he is a watchful Christian. He who overcomes must watch; for with worldly entanglements, error, and superstition, Satan strives to win Christ’s followers from Him and to keep their minds employed with his devices. It is not enough that we avoid glaring dangers and perilous, inconsistent moves. We are to keep close to the side of Christ, walking in the path of self-denial and self-sacrifice. We are not to allow our spiritual perceptions to be blinded, as they often are, by a strong, determined will. And in order to detect the artifices of Satan and to withstand his unexpected attacks, we must have the grace of Christ and the impartation of His Spirit.
We are in an enemy’s country. He who was cast out of heaven has come down with great power. With every conceivable artifice and device he is seeking to take souls captive. Unless we are constantly on guard, we shall fall an easy prey to his unnumbered deceptions.
We are stewards, entrusted by our absent Lord with the care of His household and His interests, which He came to this world to serve. He has returned to heaven, leaving us in charge, and He expects us to watch and wait and prepare for His coming. Let us be faithful to our trust, lest coming suddenly He find us sleeping.
God’s Word warns us that we have manifold enemies, not open and avowed, but enemies who come with smooth words and fair speeches, and who would deceive if possible the very elect. Thus Satan comes. And again, when it suits his purpose, he goes about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Man’s will, unless kept in subjection to the will of God, is as often on the enemy’s side as on the Lord’s side. Therefore watch unto prayer; watch and pray always.
The experience of the disciples in the garden of Gethsemane contains a lesson for the Lord’s people today. Taking with Him Peter and James and John, Christ went to Gethsemane to pray. He said to them, “My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death; tarry ye here, and watch. And He went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, Abba Father, all things are possible unto Thee; take this cup from Me; nevertheless, not what I will but what Thou wilt. And He cometh and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, Sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” [Mark 14:34-38.]
Read these words carefully. Many today are fast asleep, as were the disciples. They are not watching and praying, lest they enter into temptation. Let us read and study those portions of God’s Word that have special reference to these last days, pointing out the dangers that will threaten God’s people.
We need keen, sanctified perception. This perception is not to be used in criticizing and condemning one another, but in discerning the signs of the times. We are to keep our hearts with all diligence, that we may not make shipwreck of faith.
The Laodicean message is applicable to our churches. Many of God’s people have strengthened themselves in their own way, following the impulses of their own minds, and refusing to heed the admonitions of the Lord. Many who were once firm believers in the truth have become careless in regard to their spiritual welfare, and are yielding, without the slightest opposition, to Satan’s well-laid plots.
It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many of those older in years, who put their trust in their own capabilities, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.
The dangers thickening around us demand from those who have an experience in the things of God a watchful supervision. Those who walk humbly before God, distrustful of their own wisdom, will realize their danger and will know the power of God’s keeping care. Those who do not realize their danger, because they do not watch, will pay, with the loss of their souls, the penalty of their presumption and their wilful ignorance of Satan’s devices.
Let us trust fully, humbly, unselfishly in God. We are His little children, and thus He deals with us. When we draw near to Him, He mercifully preserves us from the assaults of the enemy. Never will He betray one who trusts in Him, as a child trusts in its parents. He sees the humble, trusting souls drawing near to Him, and in pity and love He draws near to them and lifts up for them a standard against the enemy. “Touch them not,” He says; “for they are Mine. I have graven them upon the palms of My hands.” He teaches them to exercise unquestioning faith in His power to work in their behalf. With assurance they say, “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.]
Let every believer closely examine himself, to ascertain what are his weak points. Let him cherish a spirit of humility and plead with the Lord for grace and wisdom and for the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Let us cast away all self-confidence. God has no place for it in His work. Many have so high an opinion of their own abilities and attainments, and so firm a reliance on their own judgment, that they believe themselves capable of bearing responsibilities in any emergency. But they leave their appointed work, forget the precautions God has told them to take, and entangle themselves in difficulty. They make crooked paths for their feet and incur the displeasure of God.
This is the warning that comes to all, especially to those in positions of trust: “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” [1 Corinthians 10:12.] Self-confidence leads to a lack of watchfulness, to perplexity, and to the doing of a work that the Lord has not given.
Lt 6, 1903
Caro, E. R.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 4, 1903
Dr. E. R. Caro
Dear Brother,—
I have read your letter to Willie, and from some expressions and statements in it, I have come to the conclusion that you have not yet learned what you must do to inherit eternal life.
My brother, Christ gives to you the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me: for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Rest is found in yoking up with Christ. Those who learn from Him His meekness and lowliness will bear witness that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. But you will not find rest so long as you think that you are not included in Christ’s invitation, and that you can take with you into the Christian life your hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong.
I sincerely hope that you will not connect with the Wahroonga Sanitarium until you decide that a thorough reconversion must take place in your heart. Do not, I beg you, make the work harder than it must necessarily be for those who are working to advance the cause of God, and who in their work are brought in contact with worldly people. They must keep the Word of God in hand and heart, that they may tell those they meet how to gain salvation. Do not do anything that will hinder the accomplishment of their work.
My brother, we could not consent to have connected with the Wahroonga Sanitarium a physician who would not set a right example. He who serves as a physician in one of our medical institutions is to be a sign pointing out the way to heaven, telling his fellow men that God has only one standard—His holy law.
Through disobedience Adam fell. The divine government had been dishonored, and justice demanded that the penalty of transgression be paid. To save the race from eternal death, the Son of God volunteered to bear the punishment of disobedience. Only by the humiliation of the Prince of heaven could the dishonor be removed, justice satisfied, and man restored to that which he had forfeited by disobedience. There was no other way. Christ, equal with God, “the brightness of the Father’s glory, and the express image of His person” [Hebrews 1:3], clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this earth to suffer and die for man. For every one of the angels in heaven to have come to this earth to pass over the ground where Adam fell would not have sufficed. They could not have removed the stain of one sin nor brought to man one hour of probation.
The law of God had been broken. Justice demanded the humiliation of the Lawgiver Himself. God humbled Himself in the humiliation of His only begotten Son and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross. Therefore He could say, I restored that which I took not away. He restored holiness to the law of God’s kingdom, dignity to the divine government; and by bearing in His own body the curse of sin, He placed happiness and immortality within the reach of all. One honored of all heaven must come to our world to stand in human nature, at the head of humanity, testifying to all heaven and to the unfallen worlds that through the divine help that has been provided, every human being may walk in the path of obedience to God’s commandments. The experience of the Son of God in our world must exemplify the love that every pardoned sinner must feel in his heart and reveal in his life—the love which Christ said that His disciples must show for one another.
In giving this commandment on the night of His betrayal, Christ addressed His disciples as “little children.” They were full-grown men, but, like all the rest of the human family—rich and poor, high and low—in comparison with God they were little children. “Little children,” Christ declared, “yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek Me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:33, 34.]
This was a new commandment because the Saviour had not yet given His disciples the full revelation of His love for them. After His agony in Gethsemane, His betrayal, and His trial; after His abuse at the hands of His murderers, and His sufferings on Calvary’s cross, His disciples realized more fully how much He loved them. His love for them could not have been put to a severer test than that which he bore. The love He manifested is infinite, measureless. Greater love could not have been shown.
Having given His disciples the new commandment, “Love one another, as I have loved you,” Christ foretold the sure result: “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [Verses 34, 35.]
Continuing His instruction, He said: “As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” A wonderful statement is this! What can exceed the infinite love that Christ has shown toward the fallen race? “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:9-14.] Obedience is the evidence of man’s friendship with God.
“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” [Verses 15, 16.] Christ’s love for those who obey His commandments is unchangeable, unparalleled.
Some may think that they can follow Christ’s example, and at the same time indulge in self-gratification, display, and expensive habits of living. Let every such an one study the Scriptures, in order that he may learn what is required of him by the Lord. The apostle Paul writes:
“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For Thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Romans 8:31-39.]
To those who selfishly desired to follow Him in order that they might receive of His bounty from day to day, Christ declared:
“I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst. But I said unto you, That ye also have seen Me, and believe not. All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me. And this is the Father’s will which hath sent Me, that of all which He hath given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
“The Jews then murmured at Him, because He said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that He saith, I came down from heaven? Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. No man can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.” [John 6:35-46.]
Christ’s next statement is a wonderful one: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” [Verse 47.] Such a belief requires much more faith than that which is shown by many who claim to believe.
“I am that bread of life,” the Great Teacher continued. “Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
“The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us His flesh to eat?
“Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.
“These words said He in the synagogue, as He taught in Capernaum. Many therefore of His disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?” [Verses 48-60.]
“Jesus knew … that His disciples murmured” at the words He had spoken, and He explained more fully His meaning. “It is the spirit that quickeneth,” He declared; “the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [Verses 61, 63.]
Of His disciples Christ says: “He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. Judas saith unto Him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that Thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me.” [John 14:21-24.]
These Scriptures are sufficient to show the folly of pretending to serve God while indulging self and giving but little evidence that Christ abides in the soul temple. How can any one who claims to believe God’s Word think that he can live a life of self-indulgence, setting up a standard of his own, following the desires of his natural heart, and at the same time be regarded by the Lord as one of His disciples? He who has lived a life of self-pleasing may become a true disciple only by accepting the Master’s invitation to wear His yoke of obedience and to learn of Him His meekness and lowliness.
The Son of God died for the just and for the unjust. For us He has suffered all that any man can possibly suffer. Wonderful—almost too wonderful for man to comprehend—was the Saviour’s mission in our behalf. And His sacrifice was called for. When we realize that His suffering was necessary in order to insure our eternal wellbeing, our hearts are touched and melted; for His love for us grows out of the relation that He sustains to us as our Surety. He has pledged Himself to accomplish our full salvation in a way satisfactory to the demands of God’s justice and consistent with the exalted holiness of His law. No sacrifice less holy than the Only Begotten of the Father, the One innocent of any taint of sin, would have been efficacious to cleanse all—even the whole world—who accept the Saviour as their Atonement and become obedient to heaven’s law. Nothing less could have reinstated man in God’s favor and have met the standard of His holy law. If we are obedient to the requirements of this law, Christ’s sacrifice atones for our transgressions, and we are clothed with the robe of His righteousness.
Yes, my brother, Christ suffered for you and for me. How wonderful is the love He has shown by His willingness to suffer for us! “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 53:5.]
When I read your letter to Willie, I first thought that I would have nothing to say in regard to your proposed connection with the Sanitarium near Sydney. Afterward, however, I have been instructed that it would not be wisdom to employ you as a physician in this institution. You would neither be helped yourself, nor would you be able to render the help that is required in one of our sanitariums, because of your expensive habits of living and your spiritual condition.
My dear brother, I would that you could see yourself as the Lord sees you. He regards you as neither cold nor hot. You are not in open opposition to the truth, and yet you are not a faithful steward of your soul. You continue to venture—as formerly—to follow your own ideas and plans. Thus you reveal that you are in need of genuine, Bible religion before you can be a safe medical missionary, or before you can, in your home life, set a proper example before the patrons of one of our medical institutions. While you cherish sentiments that give evidence of your half-converted condition, it would be unwise for you to occupy the important position of a leading physician in our new Sanitarium in Australia.
God desires you to be a wise steward of the talents He has lent you, that you may minister to men and women as a faithful physician of the soul and of the body. But a complete transformation must take place in your heart before you are fitted for the stewardship required of you. If you would repent and do a thorough work, God would bring you into close, tender relationship with Himself. In order to reach His exalted standard, you need to be thoroughly cleansed from self. Through the faith that works by love and purifies the soul, you may be born anew. Then you would be like a little child—willing to be led. You now feel that you are qualified for the highest position. The Lord says, Nay.
Let the completeness of Christ’s character be the completeness of your character. In your disposition are mingled contrary traits. When it is to your interest to be so, you are kind, compassionate, tender. When your way is crossed, the spirit you manifest is often the opposite.
Oh how wretched and hopeless would have been our condition, how fearful and certain our doom, had not Jesus suffered in our behalf! Our destiny depends on our own choice. If we choose, we can escape the sorrow, the mourning, and the woe that will come to those who refuse to accept Christ as their personal Saviour. Let us remember that we are to follow in the way that Christ has marked out, and not in our way of self-pleasing. Will any one decide to run the risk of living a life of extravagance while laboring in the Lord’s cause? God forbid!
No, my brother, a follower of the meek and lowly Jesus expends no more for himself than is necessary. Both because of the principles involved and the example you would set, it would be neither to your soul’s profit nor to the advantage of the Wahroonga Sanitarium for you to maintain an expensive home while working in this institution. Our sanitariums are to be strictly guarded against influences that are not wholly sanctified to God. It would be a mistake to consent to your connecting with this Sanitarium while you permit your family to live extravagantly. Your influence would be contrary to the Bible truths you claim to believe, contrary to the self-denying life of Christ, who gave Himself, a living sacrifice, in order that we might become pure, spotless, holy—the children of His covenant promise.
We may claim to be Seventh-day Adventists, and yet fail of realizing how exalted is the standard to which we must attain in order to deserve this name. Some have felt ashamed of being known as Seventh-day Adventists. Those who are ashamed of this name should never connect with those who feel it an honor to bear this name. And those who are Christ’s witnesses, standing where the truths of the Bible have placed them, are worthy of the name they bear. Our Redeemer declares, “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.” And He further declares: “Whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32, 33.]
Oh, if Christ had not sacrificed Himself to redeem the fallen race, there would be for man no forgiveness with God, no acceptance, no peace, no hope, no heaven. Our Redeemer is now standing in the presence of His Father as a compassionate, sympathetic High Priest, pleading for the heritage He has purchased with His life-blood. “It became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. … Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:10, 17, 18.]
“We have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” [Hebrews 4:15.] Christ offers every encouragement to those who are determined to be faithful in His service; but He shows no favor toward those who misrepresent Him in their daily life. What a wonderful High Priest we have! My brother, in order to perfect a Christian character, you must, as it were, lay your hand upon the bleeding sacrifice, and confess your every sin; you must lay your bosom bare, disclosing your heartfelt sorrow. The psalmist says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.” [Psalm 51:17.]
Shall we not learn to obey Christ? To those who desire to follow Him, He says: “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Many respond coldly to His invitation. But He will not accept half-hearted service. He withheld no part of the price, but gave Himself as a whole offering, a sacrifice fragrant with the incense of His righteousness, which has ascended to God as a sweet-smelling savour. And His complete sacrifice was made to redeem poor, sinful mortals. What self-sacrifice are we practicing for His sake? The life of every one whose character is being fashioned after the divine similitude is, in word and deed, fragrant with the rich perfume of Christlike love.
My dear brother, imperil not your soul’s salvation by sanctioning extravagance in your home life. I wish you could realize how much you would gain by being an overcomer. Consider the words of the Lord Jesus to those who compose His church on the earth:
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” [Revelation 2:7.] Is not this an inspiring promise? And of the overcomer He further declares, “I will give him the morning star.” [Verse 28.]
The message to the church in Smyrna is also for our encouragement: “These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” [Verses 8-11.]
Lt 7, 1903
Daniells, A. G.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 5, 1903
Elder A. G. Daniells
Dear Brother,—
I have fully decided not to attend the General Conference, or the camp-meetings, unless clear light comes to me that I should go. I dare not go; for it unfits me for my writing.
Those who have had great light have not walked in the light. The other day, at noon, I was writing of the work that might have been done at the last General Conference, if the men in positions of trust had followed the will and way of God. But the meeting was closed, and the break was not made. Men did not humble themselves before the Lord as they should have done, and God’s Holy Spirit was not imparted.
I had written thus far when I lost consciousness and seemed to be witnessing a scene in Battle Creek.
We were assembled in the auditorium of the Battle Creek Tabernacle. Prayer was offered, a hymn was sung, and prayer was again offered. Most earnest supplication was made to God. The meeting was marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit. The work went deep, and some present were weeping aloud. One rose from his bowed position, and said that in the past he had not been in union with certain ones, and had felt no love for them, but that now he saw himself as he was. With great solemnity he repeated the message to the Laodicean church, “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.” In my self-sufficiency this is just the way I have felt, he said. “And knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” [Revelation 3:17.]
I now see that this is my condition. My eyes are opened. My spirit has been hard and unjust, and I have thought myself righteous. But my heart is broken, and I see my need of the precious counsel from the One who has searched me through and through. O how gracious and compassionate and loving are His words! “I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” [Verse 18.]
The speaker turned to those who had been praying, and said, We have something to do. We must confess our sins, and humble our hearts before God. He made heart-broken confessions and then stepped up to several, one after another, and extended his hand asking their forgiveness. Those to whom he spoke sprang to their feet, making confession and asking forgiveness, and they fell upon one another’s necks, weeping. The spirit of confession spread through the entire congregation. It was a Pentecostal season. God’s praises were sung, and the work was carried on till a very late hour, until nearly morning.
The following words were often repeated, with clear distinctness: “As many as I love I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” [Verses 19, 20.]
No one seemed to be too proud to make heartfelt confession, and those who led in this work were the ones who had influence, but had not before had courage to confess their sins.
There was rejoicing such as never before had been heard in the Tabernacle.
The words were spoken to me: “This might have been. All this the Lord was waiting to do for His people. All heaven was waiting to be gracious.”
Then I aroused from my unconsciousness and for a while could not think where I was. My pen was still in my hand. I thought of where we might have been had thorough work been done at the last General Conference. An agony of disappointment came over me as I realized that what I had witnessed was not a reality.
Lt 8, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 5, 1903
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
I wish to send you a few lines in this mail. I have written to Dr. Caro and his wife, and I will send you copies of these letters, that you may see just how I regard the question of their connection with the Wahroonga Sanitarium. Have you evidence that a radical change has taken place in Dr. Caro’s life? If so, this is enough. Has he been converted? If he has not, he would not, if connected with the Sanitarium, rightly represent the truth for this time. His influence would stand in the way of bringing the institution to that place where it will meet the mind of God.
In my former letters I have spoken in regard to this matter, and now I speak to you again, saying, Be guarded in giving Dr. Caro encouragement to connect with the Sanitarium. In his letter to Willie he says, “You know, I have an expensive family.” He seems to think that we shall take it for granted that this is something that cannot be changed. To connect such a family with the Sanitarium would be to bring in an undercurrent of influence that would undo what you will try to do.
Unless all the workers in the Sanitarium will stand firm for truth and righteousness, you might just as well not have a sanitarium. The work and influence of unconsecrated workers would cause much trouble and heartache and create difficulties that you could not handle, difficulties which would exert a strong influence for evil, but which you would not be able to take hold of as something tangible. Such things would bring into the Sanitarium the leaven of evil.
Secure, if possible, humble men and women as workers for the Sanitarium. At one time I thought that Dr. Kellar would connect with this institution, but neither he nor his wife is obtaining the experience that the physicians connected with this institution should have. Every physician and every helper in other lines in the Sanitarium should have a genuine religious experience.
Those who are children of God will work the works of God. But he who shuts the Holy Spirit away from his life should not be brought into connection with the Sanitarium. The workers are to be carefully chosen and then tried. Those who cannot bear the test should not be encouraged to stay. Workers who are loath to fulfil the requirements of God’s Word will be vacillating, sometimes serving the Lord and sometimes serving the wicked one.
I see that many difficulties present themselves before you. But you cannot afford to run any risks. Those who are by themselves in families have opportunity to connect with them those who need spiritual help and to work for them. But it is different in a sanitarium where so many are brought together.
We reason, We must take men as they are, not waiting for them to become as they ought to be; and make them better if we can, remembering their infirmities. But we are not to forget the object for which our sanitariums are established. It is that the light of testing truth may be shed abroad, that the sick and suffering who come may receive physical and spiritual healing. How carefully then should the workers for such an institution be chosen. Every word and act of each worker exerts an influence either for good or for evil.
Those who stand at the head of the institution have a strong molding influence, and the utmost care is to be shown in the selection of these men. There are those who have excellent qualifications, but who follow a course of action that robs their influence of all fragrance. They refuse to see that they are not just what they should be. They cannot see that anyone is wiser than they are. Such ones could not be a help in our Sanitarium.
In regard to moving the Food Factory from Cooranbong to Sydney, do not do this, Brother Burden, till the matter has received further consideration. I shall not be reconciled to this movement until clearer evidence is presented that it is the best thing to do. I wish that the Sanitarium, instead of being nearer Sydney, could have been farther away. When certain points become clearer in my mind in the future, I may be able to speak more definitely in regard to the Food Factory. I think some health food manufacture should be carried on at Cooranbong. How much, of course, is the question. Make changes slowly.
As far as I can see now, Dr. Kress will have to act as physician-in-chief at the Wahroonga Sanitarium. If in the future the burden proves too heavy for him, a change will have to be made.
You and your family should be connected with the Sanitarium. The institution must have a manager, and I think that you should occupy this position.
I fear that I may confuse you by my letters. If I do, please pardon me. I am intensely desirous that the work of the Wahroonga Sanitarium shall be a success. The labor of a faithful minister is to be connected with the labors of the physicians. All the workers are to consecrate their talents to the building up of the institution. If they will reflect the light of heaven, souls will be converted. God is to be made first and last and best in everything. The proclamation of the truth for this time is to be the one great interest. It was for this that the Sanitarium has been established.
Lt 9, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 6, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
I wish that I could send you some money to help you in your work, but I have been so situated that I could not consistently call for means for Australia. And I have no means of my own to send. During the past year I have received very little from by books. The reason for this I do not know. Some tell me that it is because so strong an effort has been put forth to sell Christ’s Object Lessons. Everywhere this book has occupied the field, and it has had a large sale. For this I rejoice, though its sale has brought me nothing except the satisfaction of knowing that I have been able to be the helping hand of God.
I feel very thankful for the help of Sister Marian Davis in getting out my books. She gathers material from my diaries, from my letters, and from the articles published in the papers. I greatly prize her faithful service. She has been with me for twenty-five years and has constantly been gaining increasing ability for the work of classifying and grouping my writings.
Sister Davis is as much pleased as I am to think that Christ’s Object Lessons and Steps to Christ fill the place that they do in the Lord’s vineyard. I praise the Lord for the privilege of giving the book Christ’s Object Lessons for the advancement of His work. I believe that souls will be saved in the kingdom of God as a result of the circulation of this book. And our own people have been greatly blessed as they have given their time to its sale. The Review and Herald and our Union Conference papers abound with testimonies relating the precious experience gained by those who have handled the book. The Lord is good. To His name be all the glory.
Since I came to this country my expenses have been heavy. Lately we have had an addition built on to our house—a room that I could use as an office. The kitchen roof was raised, and over the kitchen my room was built. This was necessary; for in order to preserve my health I must have a room which has an open fireplace. The building of this room, together with the repainting of the whole house and the reshingling of parts of the roof, cost one thousand dollars.
I now have a very pleasant room in which to do my work. It is light and airy. On the east side there is a large bay window, and on bright days I have an abundance of sunshine. The open fireplace in the room is a great comfort to me, and I find that since I moved into this room I have had no dizziness, and my heart does not trouble me nearly so much as when I was living in a room where there was a stove.
I look after my own fire entirely, at night covering the coals with ashes and in the morning building the fire and putting on a large log that has been brought up and left on the hearth. I get up at all hours of the night, some times at twelve, sometimes at one, and sometimes at eleven, and when I rise I build my fire and then sit down to write. Lately I have been sleeping till two and three o’clock.
I go up and down stairs as quickly as any member of my family, and do this many times each day. I feel very grateful to the Lord for providing this refuge for me. In the daily papers we read of how other parts of America are suffering from extreme cold. In many places there are blizzards and hurricanes. But nothing of this kind has come near us.
If I had to move from here, I should want to go to Cooranbong. As I read of the fearful drought in Australia, and of the loss of life and property resulting from it, and then hear of the prosperity attending the Avondale School farm, I praise the Lord. How fresh in my mind are the words spoken by One of Authority, as some were presenting the objectionable features of the school land: “Cannot God spread a table in the wilderness?” [Psalm 78:19.] He certainly has done this by blessing the orchard and the vegetable garden. The abundance with which the school land has produced its treasure testifies that God’s prospering hand is with His people. I am as thankful for this as though I were still there. I thank the Lord in behalf of my brethren and sisters in Australia. Not one thing has failed of that which He was promised. Let us take courage and rejoice in the Lord. Let us look ever on the bright side.
Lt 10, 1903
Palmer, E. R.; Daniells, A. G.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 8, 1903
E. R. Palmer and A. G. Daniells
My dear Brethren,—
I wish to say a few words to you this morning. I have been disappointed and grieved over the course that both of you have followed. It is a course which tends to discourage the workers in Nashville and Melbourne, and which tends to gather more responsibilities to the men in Battle Creek. Only a few days ago there came to my notice a leaflet containing the correspondence that passed between the Echo office, Brother E. R. Palmer, and the brethren in South Africa, in regard to the book business in South Africa. I was surprised that I had not received any intimation of this matter before. But since I read this correspondence, the very thing that I have been expecting has come. The publishing plant in Battle Creek has been burned to the ground. I now feel that the Lord has taken matters into His own hands, and that I have nothing more to say.
I have felt called upon to write some things to the brethren in Australia, in response to a letter from Brother and Sister Kress requesting me to give them any light that I might have in regard to the medical faculty of the Wahroonga Sanitarium. But I have not yet written one line to the brethren in Australia in regard to the light that the Lord has given me concerning matters in South Africa. I have had no correspondence with any of the parties concerned in Australia or in South Africa, although in the last mail I received communications from the brethren of the Echo office asking for advice and counsel. My burden has been to save you, if possible, from doing a strange work—a work that the Lord has not give either of you to do.
Three nights in succession after the council I had with you here, my mind was in an agony of distress. For a month or more afterward, I could not sleep after twelve o’clock at night, and I arose then to write out the representations that were given me, the half of which I have not told, and may never have to tell.
By means of one Agency, Christ Jesus, God has mysteriously linked all men together. To every man He has assigned some special line of service; and we should be quick to comprehend that we are to guard against leaving the work given us in order that we may interfere with other human agencies who are doing a work not precisely the same as our own. To no man has been assigned the work of interfering with the work of one of his fellow laborers, trying to take it in hand himself; for he would so handle it that he would spoil it. To one, God gives a work different from the work that He gives another.
Let us all remember that we are not dealing with ideal men, but with real men of God’s appointment, men precisely like ourselves, men who fall into the same errors that we do, men of like ambitions and infirmities. No man has been made a master, to rule the mind and conscience of a fellow being. Let us be very careful how we deal with God’s blood-bought heritage.
To no man has been appointed the work of being an overseer of his fellow men. Every man is to bear his own burden. He may speak words of encouragement, faith, and hope to his fellow workers; he may help them to bear their special burdens by suggesting to them improved methods of labor; but in no case is he to discourage and enfeeble them, lest the enemy shall obtain an advantage over their minds—an advantage that in time would react upon himself.
By the cords of tender love and sympathy the Lord has linked all men to Himself. Of us He says, Ye “are laborers together with God. Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] This relationship we should recognize. If we are bound up with Christ, we shall constantly manifest Christlike sympathy and forbearance toward those who are striving with all their God-given ability to bear their burdens, even as we endeavor to bear our appointed burdens.
In our several callings there is to be mutual dependence on one another for assistance. A spirit of authority is not to be exercised, even by the president of a Conference; for position does not change a man into a creature that cannot err. Every laborer entrusted with the management of a Conference is to work as Christ worked, wearing His yoke and learning of Him His meekness and lowliness. A Conference president’s spirit and demeanor, in word and in deed, reveal whether he realizes his weakness and places his dependence on God, or whether he thinks that his position of influence has given him superior wisdom. If he loves and fears God, if he realizes the value of souls, if he appreciates every jot of the help that the Lord has qualified a brother worker to render, he will be able to bind heart to heart by the love that Christ revealed during His ministry. He will speak words of comfort to the sick and the sorrowing. If he does not cultivate a masterly manner, but bears in mind always that One is his Master, even Christ, he can counsel the inexperienced, encouraging them to be God’s helping hand.
The feeble hands are not to be deterred from doing something for the Master. Those whose knees are weak are not to be caused to stumble. God desires us to encourage those whose hands are weak to grasp more firmly the hand of Christ and to work hopefully. Every hand should be outstretched to help the hand that is doing something for the Master. The time may come when the hands that have upheld the feeble hands of another may in turn be upheld by the hands to whom they ministered. God has so ordered matters that no man is absolutely independent of his fellow men.
To us comes the message that was given to the church at Ephesus: “Thou hast left thy first love.” This message comes at a time when, in our supreme self-importance, we suppose that we are advancing heavenward. Gradually we have been losing sight of the fact that we are only God’s little children, and that daily we must receive strength and help from Him, if we remain Christlike in behaviour, and act as those that have been born again. And because we have lost sight of this, God’s message to all our churches, which have received great light, is, “Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou has left thy first love.” [Revelation 2:4.]
When the Holy Ghost came upon the early disciples, and three thousand people were converted in one day, there was love and fellowship in the Christian church. “All that believed were together, and had all things in common; … and they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Acts 2:44, 46, 47.] They lived in the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. But after a time, the evil leaven of criticism and fault-finding was introduced into the church, finally resulting in their leaving their first love.
Thus it is with God’s church today. We have left our first love. And to us, as to the church at Ephesus, is spoken the warning message: “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:5.]
My brethren, I beg of you to humble your hearts before God, and make thorough work of repentance yourselves. Thus you can set an example that will help others to understand how to humble themselves before God in repentance and turn away His wrath from being visited upon His people.
If the Review and Herald office had been thoroughly cleansed, the present showing before the world would not have been. The brethren connected with this institution have not heeded the Testimonies of the Spirit of God. They have braced themselves against them.
I will mention one matter that has been presented to me as an object lesson showing how the word of the Lord is regarded. For many years the special articles that He has been giving to His people have occupied the first place in the pages of our church paper, the Review and Herald. But suddenly their position was changed. For a time, objectionable illustrations occupied the place that these articles formerly occupied. Many, many have spoken to me of this change, and of the grief it has brought to their hearts.
Several months ago, in the visions of the night, the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “This is an acted parable. The removal of these articles from the first page of this paper, and the publication of inappropriate illustrations on this page <is not an accident; it is an outgrowth of perverted principles and> speaks louder than words. This is a parable showing the estimation in which are held the words of the one whom God appointed to act a part in founding the paper in the early days of the message, and whose testimonies from the Lord have been coming to His people since the first issue of the paper. The displacement of God’s word for these objectionable illustrations reveals the moral taste of those who have made the change. God has taken notice of this.”
I have not mentioned this matter before, to anyone, although the change is marked, and has been commented upon by many of our people and others. If it pleases my brethren to give to the world, in this acted parable, their estimation of the Lord’s word, I have nothing to say.
Lt 11, 1903
White, J. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 5, 1903
Dear son Edson,—
Your meeting may be over before this reaches you, but I want to tell you that I am intensely desirous that you shall do everything in your power toward reconciliation. Act with the God-given dignity of a Christian gentleman. Make your explanations in humility and gentleness, laying no blame on others; and in the same way acknowledge any mistake you may have made. Then you will have acted your part. Keep yourself under the supervision of God. Never utter an impatient word, whatever may be said to you or of you. Do not criticize your brethren unkindly, even though you know them to be unjust in their treatment of you. You may not be guilty of the things of which they accuse you, but do not retaliate. Do not get angry or excited. This will not give you one inch of vantage ground. Remember that it is not the men you are meeting, but the principalities and powers of the enemy. Take this into account. Pray that men may be led to humble themselves before God and to open the door of the heart to Jesus. He could do more in five minutes with the healing leaf of the tree of life than you or any other human being could do in a lifetime.
Do not speak the hasty words you will be tempted to utter. To speak these words would be as flint striking flint.
Read the study the seventh chapter of John. “After these things Jesus walked in Galilee; for He would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill Him.” [John 7:1.] When men give themselves up to the control of the spirit of the enemy, they know not what they do. They are insane. But if Christ bore false accusations without retaliating, cannot they of His household?
Speaking to the Jews, Jesus said, “Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?” [Verse 19.] Angrily they replied that they did keep the law. They thought themselves very particular and exact in their observance of the law. But they did not keep it in a way that glorified the Lord. They were very particular about minor matters of their own invention. Forms and ceremonies were strictly observed. But the great principles of the law—justice, mercy, and love—were disregarded.
The followers of Christ are to avoid contention. They are to live the life of Christ. He is our Saviour. His pure, holy life is our example. Then, my son, do not descend to cheapness or commonness in word or act. Let all your words be the words of a Christian gentleman. Keep watching; for you are treading among the quicksands. One false, unguarded step may place you in fearful danger.
You and your brethren are in trouble in regard to the Southern work. I entreat you to be very careful of what you say in the meetings you attend. Remember that silence is eloquence. Let your words be few and well chosen. The enemy will be close by your side, trying to make you feel that you are misrepresented. Keep calm.
One thing I know: you ought to be perfectly reconciled to your brother. Your lack of union with him, your lack of brotherly love, is one of the things that make the leading brethren think that you must certainly be in the wrong. They know W. C. White to be an honorable, unselfish man, who would suffer wrong in silence rather than do wrong. Your alienation from your brother is not right. It is an evidence that you can be estranged from those to whom you should be most closely linked. I know how the Lord regards your brother. You have allowed yourself to become estranged from him, and the brethren, seeing the way in which you treat him, make a handle of it. They say, If he has so little regard for his brother that he cannot harmonize with him, it is not surprising that he cannot harmonize with those who are not his kindred.
My son, for the sake of your soul, stop and consider how God looks upon the estrangement of two brothers. In your hatred of your brother—for it is nothing less than this—you have certainly shown that you have not been led and controlled by the Spirit of God. You have not been backward about showing dislike and lack of respect for your brother. This is not right; it is not reasonable or sensible. You have exaggerated matters and have placed a wrong construction on them, letting your brother stand in an objectionable light before others.
Frank Belden is well pleased to see you cherishing such feelings. Dr. Kellogg knows how you regard your brother, and it has its influence on him.
You cannot expect the Lord to sustain you in your position regarding your brother. God has appointed him to do a work that others would not do. I know of no one but your brother whom I could trust to do this work. I have written to you on this point before, but I do not think that what I wrote had the effect on your mind that it should have had. I shall not let this matter rest, because I know that the stand you have taken is greatly to your injury. I have feared that I might die and leave you and Willie standing in your present attitude toward one another.
Before our Lord went to His agony on the cross, He made His will. He had no silver or gold or houses to leave to His disciples. He was a poor man, as far as earthly possessions were concerned. Few in Jerusalem were so poor as He. But He left His disciples a richer gift than any earthly monarch could bestow on his subjects. “Peace I leave with you,” He said. It was the peace that had been His throughout His life on earth—the peace which had been with Him amidst poverty, buffeting, and persecution, and which was to be with Him in His agony in Gethsemane and on the cruel cross. He linked Himself closely to the friends He was leaving, giving them that which brings true happiness. “My peace I give unto you,” He said; “not as the world giveth, give I unto you: let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” [John 14:27.]
Edson, in regard to your proposition about the first four chapters of Patriarchs and Prophets, I cannot feel that it would be safe for me to move without laying everything before Willie. Talk matters over with him. I cannot, at my own impulse, take up a work and launch out into it. I have to be impressed by the Spirit of God. I cannot write unless the Holy Spirit helps me. Sometimes I cannot write at all. Then again I am aroused at eleven, twelve, and one o’clock; and I can write as fast as my hand can move over the paper.
I must throw off as far as possible the burden of the work in Nashville. It is too great for me to carry. I must drop it from my soul. I have carried the burden of the Southern field till I can carry it no longer. I shall have to lay it off, else I shall be unfitted for my writing.
I cannot advise you to separate from the work in Nashville, but if, after praying over the matter, you feel that this is the best thing to do, do it, and leave the result with the Lord. But to establish a separate work on your own bit of land will not help the difficulty. Do nothing hastily. The Lord will work. He will bring glory to His name.
It may be best for you to step out of the field altogether and let the whole weight of the work rest upon the other laborers there. I think that you have carried the load long enough. If you can feel free to do so, go to another field.
I cannot help the work in the Southern field financially. I am thousands and thousands of dollars in debt, and I am obliged to keep borrowing continually in order to pay my running expenses. I draw from the General Conference only fifty dollars a month of my wages. During the past year I have received scarcely any royalties. I am in a very strait place financially. My trust is in God, but I must begin to think where the money is coming from with which to pay my workers.
I would ask you once more, Edson, to keep very quiet. Do not look upon yourself as blameless, but confess your faults, and in this do thorough work. You now have opportunity to show that you cherish the forgiving love of Christ. If the Lord in His great mercy vindicates you in certain things, you can show great weakness, or you can do as you were represented to me as doing, when in the night season I saw One who has authority laying His hand on your shoulder and leading you to the front rank. This broke your heart. You wept and confessed your sins and mistakes, asking pardon for the hasty words you had spoken. And reconciliation was made between you and your brethren.
My son, if at all times you had spoken as a Christian gentleman, if you had not cherished bitter feelings, there would have been far less prejudice against you. Will you not during this meeting put self out of sight? Be humble, as one of God’s little children. Your work has not been perfect before Him. In speech and deportment you must reach a higher standard. When you descend to cheapness, you destroy the influence that as a minister of the gospel you should exert.
I have been given words for you that I wish you to engrave upon your heart: “The meek will He guide in judgment, and the meek will He teach His way.” “I will instruct thee, and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go; I will guide thee with Mine eye.” [Psalm 25:9; 32:8.] “Thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, I am the Lord thy God, which teacheth thee to profit, which leadest thee by the way that thou shouldest go.” [Isaiah 48:17.] “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and He shall show them His covenant.” [Psalm 25:14.]
May God help you, my son, to pursue a right course, to be meek and lowly. The experience through which you are passing may be the means of saving your soul, if you will watch unto prayer.
The Lord is present in every meeting, marking the course of each one. He watches the movement made, and He will direct in all the changes made, if His servants will follow His guidance. Our missions and commissions are all different. No two persons are given precisely the same work. Each has his own manner of performing his work, and that manner must be Christlike.
God must show us every step of the way. Every hour we must have the new impulses of His Spirit. Love for Him should be the mainspring of our actions. Every hour has its duties and every movement its cares. Let a controlling power from above check the hasty speech. Let your heart be filled with the kindest, most tender compassion. Never allow yourself to be ruled by impulse. Never get out of patience. New scenes are opening before us, and we need to hear a voice from heaven, directing us to the right or to the left, saying, “This is the way; walk ye in it.” [Isaiah 30:21.] God’s will, not ours, is to control. “A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps.” [Proverbs 16:9.]
Lt 12, 1903
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
January 11, 1903
My dear son Edson,
I have just read your letters. I want the reformatory work of which you speak to be carried on firmly and decidedly. This can only be done by following the counsel of the great Teacher, who gave His life for the world, and whose we are by creation and by redemption. His directions are full and complete. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]
When our duty is so plainly marked out, why do so many church members go contrary to a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” and speak of their difficulties to those who know nothing in regard to them or in regard to those whom these difficulties concern? Jesus the great Teacher has told us what our duty is. Our gifts, our prayers are not acceptable to God while we leave this duty undone, and let the poison of envy, evil surmising, and jealousy take possession of our souls and spoil our union and happiness. Oh, how much unhappiness would be spared, and how many evil thoughts would be quenched, if believers would take up the work that Christ has said must be done to prevent evil thinking and evil speaking.
A few words of explanation might change entirely the views of those who have been at variance, cherishing bitter feelings. We cannot be obedient to the law of God until we put out of the mind all differences, until we allow our hearts to be softened and subdued by the Spirit of Christ. Our prayers are hindered by our pride of heart, by our refusal to confess faults and to remove wrong impressions. We are to make every effort in our power to remove every stumbling block from before the feet of our neighbor or our brother. My son, make every concession that it is possible for you to make. Do not leave on a suffering mind a misconception that an advance in humiliation and tenderhearted interest would remove. Satan will be sure to come to that mind with the temptation to misconstrue and to make a mountain out of a molehill. A mind that easily stumbles over hurt feelings will conjure up mistaken ideas of all kinds.
The Lord Jesus has given special directions as to what each of His “little children” is to do. When we pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those that trespass against us,” do we do our part to answer this prayer? [Matthew 6:12, 14, 15.] Let us remember that if our brother has aught against us, we are to leave on the altar the gift we have brought to God and be reconciled to our brother. Then we are to come and offer our gift. This is the only way in which we can keep in our hearts the peace of God. And is it not worth an effort to have this peace? Were not Christ’s directions given to be carried out to the letter; and if they were carried out, would not much sorrow and alienation and misunderstanding be spared?
“The meek will He guide in judgment; the meek will He teach His way.” [Psalm 25:9.] How thankful we should be for such favors. It makes the heart light to try to remove burdens from other hearts. We are enjoined to cultivate peace and unity. Our prayers are not efficient while we suffer a fellow worker to misapprehend us. If we are not to blame for the misunderstanding that exists, we can perhaps make an explanation that will remove the misunderstanding. If we are to blame, we are certainly under obligation to God to relieve the suffering of one of the members of His family. If we have left a wrong impression on his mind, we must do all in our power to remove this impression.
There are certain duties that we must perform in order to answer our own prayers. We ask the Lord for His grace and blessing. Then we must see if there are in the way of our receiving this blessing any obstacles that we must remove. Before we can be free, we must take these obstacles away.
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] Thus man becomes a laborer together with God, removing every stumbling block from his own way and from his brother’s way so that nothing shall hinder their spiritual progress. This he must do, or his own soul will be under condemnation.
“This is the victory that overcometh the world, even your faith.” [1 John 5:4.] I will pray for you, my son. I remember the church and work in Nashville in my prayers as we assemble for morning and evening worship. I want you all to remember that you are to live your prayers. Daily you are to strive to live in unity with one another. Allow no variance or strife to enter the church. “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] You can have sweet fellowship with one another if you will that this shall be. Never, never lose sight of the light and glory of God. Strive for unity. This is the best medical missionary work that can be done.
I wish to say to you, Edson, and to brother W. O. Palmer, that while you are to be a help to each other, I do not regard it as advisable that you engage together in the same line of work. Brother Palmer is a man of leading mind. He thinks and moves independently. It is the same with Edson White; therefore each should have his own line of work, over which he has supervision. Each should feel that he has opportunity to use his faculties to plan for his appointed work and to carry his plans through to success. If you both try to plan for the same line of work, you will get in each other’s way. Will you please remember this? You can labor in separate lines of work, and it is best for you to do this.
Brother Palmer must not take on himself much responsibility until his health is such that he can do this with safety. At present, he is to keep himself as free as possible from perplexity and taxing labor. Edson, be careful not to encourage Brother Palmer to do too much. He must guard himself. His circulation is not good, and when his mind is worried and perplexed, he is injured physically. He should have work that will enable him to stay out of doors in pleasant weather.
You are both men that can do much more, and with greater satisfaction to yourselves, if your work is pleasing and in no way forced.
May the lord help you to consider these suggestions. You should each work where you can have elbow room, and where there will be no weakening of your individual capabilities. A word to the wise is sufficient.
My heart is drawn out in prayer for you both. May the Lord abundantly bless you; for you are both under His orders, pledged to do His will. I pray that the mist that has been gathering may roll away, and that each worker may see the saving grace of Christ. Look unto Jesus. Have faith in God, and He will be your exceeding great reward.
I will now close this letter and see if I can get it in tonight’s mail.
Lt 13, 1903
Knox, W. T.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 13, 1903
Elder W. T. Knox
Dear Brother,—
I have received a letter from Brother T. S. Whitelock in regard to the Potts’ sanitarium property in Paradise Valley near San Diego. I will send a copy of this letter to you, so that you can read it and decide what to do. I hope that it will be thought advisable to secure this property for sanitarium purposes. Perhaps it would be well for you to communicate with Brother Henry W. Kellogg in regard to the matter.
When properties so suitable for sanitarium work, in places where we desire to build up our medical missionary work, are offered to us for much less than their original cost, we should regard such offers as providential. The Lord has manifestly prepared the way for us at San Diego. <We must be quick to discern when the wheel of providence is turned in our favor. Is not this opportunity an answer to our prayers?>
I am so situated that for some months to come I shall be unable to advance anything to help purchase this place. Scarcely anything has come in from the sale of my books, and about all that I have with which to meet my running expenses is the fifty dollars a month that I receive from the General Conference.
If I could, I would sell my place in Healdsburg, but as yet I have had no opportunity to do so. I am not worrying over my inability to help the brethren at San Diego, because I know that my heavenly Father knows how I am in every possible way trying to advance the work in new fields.
When money does not come in from the sale of my books, I do not have sufficient to pay my workers. Because our brethren do not walk in the counsel of the Lord, much of my time must be devoted to the writing of letters. We have had much of this to do since coming to America. As a result, the preparation of my writings for publication has been delayed. Many of the testimonies have not been issued in a form for general circulation, having been sent only to the ministers and other workers. But I am not discouraged over financial matters. When it seems best for me to sell my present home, I will do so cheerfully. I have been able to hire money at a low rate of interest with which to lift the mortgage on it. The bank offered me money at eight percent, but I secured a loan from my brethren at four percent.
I now wish to know whether you intend to take any steps toward the purchase of the Paradise Valley property. I am greatly surprised that the terms are so favorable—only eight thousand dollars. Can you not write something to the brethren there at once in regard to what you think should be done? I do not desire to have them continually writing to me; for I can say no more than I have said; and money I have not. If Brother H. W. Kellogg would buy this place for us, and wait a little while for the money, I think we could raise the means and return it to him. Just now, other matters seem to demand our first attention. The burning of the Review and Herald office leaves the leading brethren in perplexity as to what should be done next.
Have you found a place yet for holding the General Conference? Many have asked me in reference to this, but I have not heard anything definite.
Lt 14, 1903
Kellogg, H. W.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 13, 1903
Previously unpublished.
Mr. Henry W. Kellogg
My dear Brother,—
I have received several letters from Dr. T. S. Whitelock in regard to the Potts’ sanitarium property in Paradise Valley, a few miles south of San Diego. He knows my mind fully—that to purchase this property would be a wise move.
Dr. Whitelock writes that they are doing as good a business in the San Diego treatment rooms as is possible in the limited quarters they have at present. In a letter I received two or three days ago from him, a copy of which I am enclosing to you, he states that the Paradise Valley property is now offered on still more favorable terms than it has been offered heretofore. We can now secure it for eight thousand dollars, as you will learn by reading his letter.
I think it would be a great mistake for us to overlook the providence of God that has placed so valuable a property within our reach. If I could, I would heartily share the financial burden of buying this place; but for months I have received almost nothing from the sale of my books. About all the income I have now is the fifty dollars a month sent me by the General Conference. I have workers that must be paid. Occasionally I have an opportunity to borrow a little money, which I use in partially paying my workers and in preparing new books. But I am handicapped for lack of means and have nothing to advance on the purchase price of the Potts’ sanitarium property.
Brother Kellogg, if you would help us pass through this narrow place by securing this property for yourself and for us, I fully believe that it would be the right thing for you to do. I am sending to you a copy of a letter I have just written to Elder W. T. Knox.
I regard as a great favor the efforts of the agent to induce the owners of this property to make to our people so low an offer. I am feeling so thoroughly worn out by the burdens brought upon us by our brethren who view matters from a wrong standpoint, that I cannot write you much in regard to this offer; but it is resting on my mind, and therefore I write these few lines to you.
If you could advance something to help buy this place, perhaps we could find others who would be glad to unite with you in raising the amount required.
I have not slept much the past night. I woke up at one o’clock and could not sleep after three. I was drowsy, but could not fall asleep. In the visions of the night I was laboring with my brethren, encouraging them to buy this property at once. I was saying that there would be no objection to the plan of two or three brethren uniting in buying it, if they were “picked” men, men who would not adopt a “rule or ruin” policy.
My brother, think this matter over, and drop me a line in regard to what you decide is advisable to do under the circumstances, for this will set my mind at rest.
Lt 15, 1903
Kellogg, H. W.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 13, 1903
Mr. H. W. Kellogg
My dear Brother,—
I have already written a short letter to you this morning. I wish to tell you that I can see no hope in looking to any one except you for financial aid in securing the Potts’ sanitarium property near San Diego. I believe that you can devise some way in which to raise the money for obtaining this property at the price it is now offered us. Could not you hire the money of yourself to buy this property? or else hire part of it from some one that you know would be willing to unite with you in this enterprise? I cannot think of anyone excepting yourself. But I think money could be hired in Iowa and Nebraska, and if you decide not to close this bargain yourself, I will at once make an appeal to my brethren and sisters there. If we dally now, our chance may soon be gone.
The Potts’ sanitarium property is just what we need for a medical institution near San Diego. It is none too far from the city and in many ways is suitable for our work. You have seen it for yourself. At one time it was offered to us for eleven thousand, if we would take it at once. Now, as you can see from Dr. Whitelock’s letter, it is offered for eight thousand—three thousand less than the lowest previous offer. Should we wait any longer? I see no reason whatever why we should wait. We need a sanitarium at San Diego, and here is a building admirably suited for our needs—a building that we may occupy without delay. Can you not devise some plan whereby this property shall be obtained? It is all that we could ask for. I hope you will in some way secure it; for it is so desirable and just what is needed.
Light has been given me that we should diligently search for properties that the Lord has prepared for us, properties that we can utilize at once without investing a large amount of money. Think what the Sanitarium in Boulder cost—more than eighty thousand dollars! Here is a building offered us for eight thousand—a building not so fanciful and showy as is the Boulder Sanitarium, but in many respects much more valuable.
If you can possibly arrange to do so, I hope you will purchase this property. I will interest myself to see that others become interested. In Australia I had to push every step of the way in order to advance; and it seems as if I shall have to do so in California.
I think that after having written these letters to you, my mind may be at rest. I know not where Elders Knox and A. T. Jones are. My son W. C. White will not be here before the last of January.
I do not think that the proposition to rent the building would relieve the situation; for the owners have come to a point where they are compelled to offer the place at one half the price they offered it to us while we where there, which was $16,000. The agent is doing his best in our behalf. At the price they now offer to sell for, they will not wait long.
But I will not write more now. I think that I have written sufficient to lay the situation before you.
Lt 16, 1903
Haskell, Brother and Sister [S. N.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 1, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell,
I have begun letter after letter to you, but every time something has pressed in that demanded immediate attention; and this made it necessary for me to lay aside your letter, which would always become lost among many other manuscripts.
My mind has been burdened over the matter of writing on Old Testament History. I am troubled to see my brethren and sisters bringing into the daily life so little Bible truth. I tell my dear friends that in order for us to be overcomers, we must realize that there is a battle to be fought. We rejoice to know that through the strengthening power of God’s grace we are sure to win. God is stronger than all the powers of the fallen foe.
The apostle Paul says: “And now abideth faith, hope, and charity (love).” In all our words and acts these three Christian graces are to be interwoven. “The greatest of these is love.” [1 Corinthians 13:13.] If we will cultivate Christlike love, we can have this grace in large measure.
The early Christian church left their first love. To John on the Isle of Patmos was given the message: “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:1-5.]
As members of God’s remnant church, we must pray with firm faith for the gift of the grace of love. Love is the fulfilling of the law and is manifested altogether too little among those upon whom has been shining great light. Genuine religion is life and light to every believer.
The Christian graces are given not as ornaments to win admiration, but as talents to be used in accomplishing a work for God. We are to heed the words of Paul, “Quit you like men, be strong.” [1 Corinthians 16:13.] “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” [Ephesians 6:10-18.]
If it were impossible for us to meet these requirements, they would never have been given. In divine grace there is a wonderful power. It can subdue the outbursts of passion in professing believers.
No one should ever permit his mind to get into such a state that he will speak words prompted by Satan. To accuse the brethren, to discourage them in their work, is to personify Satan and to be his helping hand by putting into the minds of others the evil leaven of criticism, as leaven is put into meal. This evil leaven, so thoughtlessly introduced, leavens the whole lump. The apostle Paul says: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: looking diligently, lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” [Hebrews 12:14, 15.]
How long will those who claim to be Christians tolerate the evil of listening to the criticisms of their brethren and in turn communicate these criticisms to others, thus strengthening one another in an evil work? How long will they question the good work that is being done by a few and stand in the way as hindrances? To clear the pathway of the accumulated rubbish placed there by accusers of the brethren takes precious time and robs faithful workers of their strength and hope and faith. God’s work can be carried on among unbelievers with far greater success than among those who, like the Pharisees, desire to have all things shaped and carried on in accordance with their ideas and preferences.
Plain, definite instruction has been given us. When the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” “Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]
Again: “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. 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.” [Verses 15-18.]
If this instruction is not heeded because we choose to disobey, doing the very opposite of that which Christ has told us to do, how will it be with us in our religious life? We shall be found communicating to one another the faults of our brethren in the church, and these evil reports will spread. Thus evil surmisings and suspicions of dishonesty will be passed from lip to lip, notwithstanding the plain directions given by Christ not to sow the seeds of evil by speaking evil of our brethren. Those who pursue a course contrary to this instruction are creating within their own hearts the evils that they condemn in others, and thus are themselves brought under condemnation. The Bible plan of avoiding and remedying difficulties among brethren is the only safe plan. Christ is grieved to see some disregarding this instruction, following their own plans—plans opposed to His. When those who claim to be Christians work in harmony with divine instruction, there will be far less evil surmising and evil speaking in the church.
Brother and Sister Haskell, dwell upon the lessons that Christ dwelt upon. Present them to the people as He presented them. Dwell upon questions that concern our eternal welfare. Anything that the enemy can devise to divert the mind from God’s Word, anything new and strange that he can originate to create a diversity of sentiment, he will introduce as something wonderfully important. But those things that we cannot clearly comprehend are not a tenth as important to us as are the truths of God’s Word that we can clearly comprehend and bring into our daily life. We are to teach the people the lessons that Christ brought into His teachings from the Old Testament Scriptures. The language of divine truth is exceedingly plain.
Christ sent His angel from heaven to teach John the Revelator in regard to the message that must be understood by us—a message of warning that concerns all who live in the last days of this earth’s history. We are to study the testing message given for this time. John declares: “The temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in His temple the ark of His testament.” [Revelation 11:19.] This ark contains God’s law, the ten commandments. A knowledge of this law is of great consequence to all who have light and to all who minister in word and doctrine.
Christ desires every minister, every one who lives by faith in Him, to realize that upon him there rests a sacred responsibility. To all who have enlisted in God’s service is given the gospel commission to carry to all nations a knowledge of the truth for this time. To inspire us with confidence, God has preserved for us a record of the giving of this commission. After His resurrection, Jesus spake unto His disciples, saying, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]
Brother and Sister Haskell, we must not permit ourselves to be taken unawares. Satan has come down with great power and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to work against the advancement of the truth. Every soul who believes the truth and who has had great light should be on guard, lest he be enlisted in Satan’s army of workers. The enemy will strive to cause believers to search out matters of minor importance and to dwell at length upon these matters in committee meetings and council meeting. But by turning their attention to questions of so little consequence, the brethren hinder the work instead of advancing it. We are to proclaim the third angel’s message to a perishing world, and we are not to permit our minds to become diverted by minutiae that practically amount to nothing. If our brethren would consider the important matters pertaining to eternal life and eternal death, many of the smaller matters that they desire so much to adjust, would adjust themselves.
The Lord calls upon His ministering servants to proclaim the message of truth, dwelling upon those things that are of great importance. When Jesus shall lead us by the side of the living waters flowing from God’s throne, He will explain to us many of the mysteries of the Bible that we cannot now comprehend. He is the Great Teacher of His Word, which cannot be fully understood in this life, but which in the future life will be clothed with the brightness of the light of clear understanding.
Lt 17, 1903
Arthur, Judge Jesse
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 14, 1903
Judge Jesse Arthur
My dear brother in Christ,—
I received your letter today and after reading it wished very much that I could be with you and talk with you.
My nephew Frank Belden has written me several letters regarding matters in Battle Creek, but these letters I have not read, for his own sake, and for the sake of those who, when I send the reproofs that God gives, are liable to be tempted to think and say, “Somebody has told her or written to her.” I shall not read these letters of Frank Belden’s now, and perhaps not at all. It is not best. Notwithstanding all the evidence that men have had that the testimonies given me are of God, when their own plans are interrupted and hindered by these testimonies, they say, “Somebody has told her.” The testimonies cannot help those whose faith is of this texture, and I am obliged to lose confidence in them as trustworthy men who will be true to themselves and to God.
I know that matters in Battle Creek are in a most precarious condition. For two months recently I suffered great distress of mind. For more than a month I was unable to sleep past twelve o’clock, excepting once or twice. At a council held at my house here, I spoke words which gave liberty for certain things to be done in a certain place. I was reproved by the Lord. For three nights in succession scenes were presented before me in which I saw what the result would be of following the plans of men instead of the plans of God. A horror of great darkness came upon me. As soon as possible I wrote a letter saying that I had been wrong in sanctioning these plans, that God did not endorse them.
In one of the scenes presented to me, I saw a sword of fire stretched out over Battle Creek.
But the terrible burden that came upon me at that time was taken away. The next news I heard was that the Review and Herald Publishing House had been destroyed by fire.
I am sure that nothing in regard to Review and Herald matters will be decided until the next General Conference.
I do not now expect to attend the General Conference. I should not dare to go; for I am very much worn with the responsibilities that I have been carrying since the Fresno camp-meeting. It is like this: When I stand before congregations of our people, I feel very intensely, because I understand the peril of those who as blind men have followed their own counsel. Were I to go to the Conference, I should be compelled to take positions that would cut some to the quick. It greatly hurts me to do this, and it is a long time before I recover from the strain that such an experience brings on me. When the Lord bids me speak, I am obliged to lay aside my own inclinations, and bear the testimony that He sends, whether men will hear or whether they will forbear, whether they are pleased or displeased.
You, my brother, know but little by personal experience of me and the work that the Lord has given me. But some of those who know of my experience, and who have had all the evidence that the Lord will ever give them, evade the truth when the straight testimony comes to rebuke some of their plans. They say, “Someone has told Sister White.” I cannot place any dependence on the faith of such ones in the Lord’s word. When all is in their favor, they may appear to believe. But when the Lord in His mercy shows them that their course is not in accordance with truth and righteousness, when their plans are interfered with, they give way to unbelief, showing that they have no real confidence in the word of the Lord.
I am glad that you could be with us in the meetings held when you were at St. Helena, because you have had little opportunity to learn of the character of the work that the Lord gave me when I was but sixteen years old, work which ever since He has sustained me in doing. I know that the Lord gave me the words to speak that you heard when you were here. His power and grace sustained me. His power was with me all the way through the last General Conference, and had the men in responsibility felt one quarter of the burden that rested on me, there would have been heartfelt confession and repentance. A work would have been done by the Holy Spirit such as has never yet been seen in Battle Creek. Those who at that time heard my message, and refused to humble their hearts before God, are without excuse. No greater proof will ever come to them.
The result of the last General Conference has been the greatest, the most terrible sorrow of my life. No change was made. The spirit that should have been brought into the whole work as the result of that meeting was not brought in because men did not receive the testimonies of the Spirit of God. As they went to their several fields of labor, they did not walk in the light that the Lord had flashed upon their pathway, but carried into their work the wrong principles that had been prevailing in the work at Battle Creek.
The Lord has marked every movement made by the leading men in our institutions and conferences. It is a perilous thing to reject the light that God sends. To Chorazin and Bethsaida heaven’s richest blessings had been freely offered. Day after day the Prince of life had gone in and out among them. The glory of God, which prophets and kings had longed to see, had shone upon them. But they refused the heavenly Gift, and of them the Saviour said:
“Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.” [Luke 10:13-15.]
So today, upon those who have had light and evidence, but who have refused to heed the Lord’s warnings and entreaties, heaven’s woe is pronounced.
The Lord bore long with the perversity of Israel, but the time came when the people passed the boundaries, and fearful punishment fell upon those who, having had great light, refused to repent and be converted, that Christ should heal them.
Brother Arthur, I feel the most tender interest in you and in your connection with the Seventh-day Adventists. I am aware that you have seen among our people many things of an objectionable nature. You have seen them cherishing that which, considering the sacredness of their faith, they should not tolerate. The Lord Jesus looks upon you very tenderly, with great compassion and love. There is a narrow path for you to travel and a strait gate for you to pass through. And One is your Leader, even Christ. Remember always that He is acquainted with every temptation that comes to you. Ever trust Him and ever follow Him in meekness and humility. He is able to do as He has promised. “Behold the Lamb of God,” John said, “which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]
My brother, when you were in St. Helena, plain evidence was given you that the message of the Lord came at that time to His people. Then will you not hold fast to the truth, and believe the word of the Lord, whatever others may say or do to counterwork that which the Lord has declared to be His will?
As I prayed for you in your home at Battle Creek, did you not have evidence that the Lord heard my prayer? I know that Jesus came into the room where we were. I know that He took away my weariness. It was no small suffering that I was trying to brace myself to bear. In the strength of the blessing then received, I traveled more than three thousand miles, speaking twenty-three times during the twenty-three days of my journey, sometimes speaking twice a day and sometimes three times.
I know that at that time blessing came to you in a healing current. I know that the Lord blessed and healed us both. You cannot have forgotten this experience. Was it not an assurance that the Lord was with His servant?
My brother, your part is to cleave to the Lord. Do not be afraid to acknowledge His goodness and His love. Give to Him all the praise and glory. Remember that in these days of peril and unbelief and skepticism your safety depends on believing in and trusting Christ as a personal Saviour. The experience you are to gain is to strengthen you in the faith. You have had a decided experience. You gave yourself to the Lord to be led and guided by Him. Cleave to Christ as a personal Saviour. Hold fast the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. With the dear family who believes with you, live for God, and you will all win a crown of immortal life. Never lose eternity out of your reckoning, and trust the Lord implicitly.
The injunction to cleave to the Lord will be precious to us if we will understand and obey it. Trust constantly in God. Have unswerving faith in Him because of the unmistakable evidence given you of His love and power. Never does one stretch out his arms in faith to the Saviour, but there are placed around and underneath him the everlasting arms, and he is comforted and sustained.
My brother and sister, lean your whole weight on Christ. He will bear you up. Fortify your children by wise instruction and by steady advancement in spirituality. Let them see that you have firm faith in the truth and a genuine love for Him who bears you up in His arms. Christ is your life, your light, your crown of rejoicing. His Spirit, striving with you, daily gives you a fresh and constantly growing experience in the knowledge of God and of Christ. Daily you learn lessons that keep you clinging so closely to the Life-giver that no power can shake you off.
My brother, you can be a great help by speaking words in season to the feeblest of God’s children, the poor and needy, and not to these only, but to those in the higher classes. We are liable to forget how some of this class long for some assurance, some spiritual hope.
Love is the connecting link between your heart and the heart of Christ. We love Him because He first loved us. Repeat often to your children the lessons of the Saviour. Christ holds you as a family in His arms of love. From Him your heart received the life-current. Let it be seen that this is actually a part of your daily experience. Spasmodic impulses are not reliable. Christ’s work has in it good reason and wise method. Do not allow your hope in Him to be affected by circumstances. Educate yourself to persevere in receiving grace from Him and imparting it to others. Thus you can exert a strong influence for good. You can be a great blessing if you will obtain the rich treasures of grace, and give them to others, speaking wise, appropriate words, leading, drawing souls to Christ, teaching them to love and appreciate Him whose they are by creation and by redemption. Lay up treasure beside the throne of God by bringing souls to Christ. This is the work that the Saviour values. Those who faithfully do this work will one day sit with Him on His throne.
What a good work we may do if we cleave earnestly to the Lord. My brother, fasten your heart to the heart of Christ. Teach your dear ones to love Jesus. In simple words tell them of His love. O how many there are who need to be taught to love Jesus. How many there are who need to be helped by words spoken in season, who are longing for something that will bring to an end the monotony of their aimless lives, but who fear to speak of their longing. Go to them with a heart overflowing with love and sympathy. In helping them, great blessing will come to you. Simply and earnestly tell them of your experience. Simplicity of godliness means much.
We are to cultivate a keen appetite for righteousness. God’s Word declares, “Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled.” [Matthew 5:6.]
Now a few words on another subject. My brother, you need not afflict your soul with regard to your future work. Hide self in Christ. Do not worry. The storm will come, but Christ is at the helm. The ship is not left to the guidance of inexperienced hands. Your help will be needed in the work of reconstruction to be done in the future. I pray that you may be weighted with the Holy Spirit.
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke to love and to good works; not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.” [Hebrews 10:23-25.]
May the Lord help us to hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering. And may He help us to provoke one another to love and to good works. It is the unselfish love and compassion that we manifest, the tender interest that we show, that provokes to love and to good works. And these efforts bear fruit to the glory of God.
Rest your soul on the Lord. Be assured that Jesus has a care for you and for your family. He knows the end from the beginning. He thought of us before we thought of Him. His heart is stirred with divine compassion for all who need His words of encouragement and hope. His love for us was fully manifested in the sacrifice that He made to redeem us. He gave His life as a ransom for sinners. He so loved the lost race that He died for them. Those who are walking in His footsteps will, by tender compassion and unselfish interest, provoke one another to love and to good works.
Satan strives to bring into the church envy, suspicion, and evil surmisings. We are hoping and praying that the church may be purged from this evil and that the compassion of Christ may be kindled in every heart. Christ has left us an example, that we should follow in His steps. He always drew near to the most needy, the most hopeless, and, attracted by His sympathy, they came close to Him. He assures every suffering, needy, sinful soul that he will never want for a great Physician to give him spiritual help. We stand too far away from suffering humanity. Let us draw nearer to Christ, that our souls may be filled with His grace, and with a desire to give this grace to others.
My brother, look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Leave yourself in His hands. He is your hope, your crown of rejoicing.
In much love to you and your wife, and to your children, whom I love, and in whom I have a deep interest,
Yours in the Master’s service.
Lt 18, 1903
Brn-Srs. in America
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 23, 1903
My dear brethren and sisters in America,—
I have received letters from several of the leading workers in regard to a property in England which is well adapted for a sanitarium, and which may now be purchased for a very reasonable sum. Light was given me that such properties would be brought to the notice of our people, and that they should look upon it as a special providence to be able to purchase at far less than their original cost places in which work can be begun without delay.
The Lord has many times presented to me the necessities of England, Ireland, and other parts of the European field. These places need means for the advancement of the Lord’s cause. Will you aid in the good work of establishing a sanitarium in England? Will you give of the means the Lord has entrusted to you to help to advance this enterprise? I am heart and soul in harmony with this enterprise, and I ask you, my brethren and sisters, to co-operate with us and with the Lord by giving what you can for the establishment of an institution that will be a great blessing to the people of England. Invest the Lord’s money in this enterprise. You will find that it will bring rich returns.
All that you possess is the Lord’s property, His lent treasure. He now calls for part of it to help to advance His work in England. I pray that God will give you liberal hearts, that you may be led to open your hands and give freely of your means. As a people standing distinct and separate from the world, you are, by your imitation of Christ’s self-denial and sacrifice, to give evidence to the world of the power of the truth to transform and sanctify the character and to cleanse the heart from selfishness. When you joined the church of God, you placed yourself under the laws and principles of a higher world. You took your place in the divine theocracy, under an Authority higher than any earthly authority. You pledged yourself to unite with the great Medical Missionary and to labor in co-operation with Him. You are to do all that you can in His service, working to the utmost of your ability. Whenever the Lord brings destitute fields to your notice, and gives you opportunity to help, you are never to neglect the opportunity.
Heed the call that now comes to you. Your usefulness and helpfulness in this case will depend on the distinctness of the line of demarcation that separates you from the vanity and selfishness of the world. Give back to the Lord His own, and thus acknowledge that a Supreme Will controls your will, filling you with the self-sacrificing spirit of Christ. Do this heartily, as unto the Lord. Do we not believe that the end of all things is at hand; and should we not, therefore, hold our possessions subject to the Lord’s order?
We are never to give unwillingly. We are to show to the heavenly universe and to the world that we are willing to make any sacrifice for Christ’s sake. We are to be imparters as well as receivers of His precious gifts. By following the example of Him who gave Himself without reserve to save a perishing world, we are silently to condemn the selfishness and covetousness of the world. Thus we proclaim that we are under the absolute control of a Power higher than human responsibility, even a Supreme Will. Thus, too, we show that we are co-operating with the Author and Finisher of our faith.
In no way can the mission and work of the Great Teacher be better represented than by the establishment of sanitariums in places where there are no such institutions. By the erection of sanitariums and houses of worship, we extend the triumphs of the cross.
As the calls for help shall come, may the Lord help us to remember that by self-sacrifice in the daily life, by a careful expenditure of His money, we are enabled to help His work in times of emergency. Your acts of helpfulness at times when help is so much needed are an evidence that you are building with the Lord Jesus.
Keep in view the nobler world by revealing the self-denial and self-sacrifice of Him who gave His life that He might take away the sin of the world. Oh, in a work of self-denial and self-sacrifice, men and women can stand, as if within the open portals of the city of God, surveying the glory within, and saying, “Come; for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.]
“I Jesus have sent Mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:16, 17.]
This is our message. And for the proclamation of this message we must have facilities. My brethren and sisters, you must impart if you would continue to receive the gifts of God. Arouse, and heed the call for help that comes from England. Give all that you can, and the Lord will bless you in giving.
Lt 19, 1903
Daniells, A. G.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 23, 1903
Dear Brother Daniells,—
Your letter was received a few days ago. For several reasons I decided not to reply and had written you to this effect, but will not send the letter now.
Dr. Kellogg has just telegraphed me to write something in regard to raising means for the purchase of a sanitarium property in England. When I received the message, I said to myself decidedly, “No, I have done enough begging; and, besides, I do not feel well enough to write now.” But a voice seemed to speak to me, “Take your pen, and write. I will help you.” I obeyed, and wrote an urgent appeal for means to establish a medical institution in England. I am now having this appeal copied, and will send a copy to you.
I have also just written something in regard to the way in which our cities in America have been passed by and neglected—cities in which the truth has not been proclaimed. The message must be given to the thousands of foreigners living in these cities in the home field.
I have not admired your wisdom nor the wisdom of those who have so little burden to take up the work that the Lord has for years been keeping before me—the work of giving the message of present truth in the Southern states. Few have felt that upon them rested the responsibility of taking hold of this work. Our people have failed to enter new territory and to work the cities in the South. Over and over again the Lord has presented the needs of this field, without any special results. And when I passed through my recent experiences in connection with the Southern work, I felt as if I could no longer bear the burden of this work. I thought that if men would continue to do as they had done, I would let matters drift, and let those who have so much confidence in their own plans go on as they chose to go. I intended merely to pray that the Lord would have mercy upon the ignorant and those who are out of the way.
But the Lord has a controversy with our ministers and people, and I must speak, placing upon them the burden of the Southern work, and of the cities of our land. Who feels heavily burdened to see the message proclaimed in Greater New York and in the many other cities as yet unworked? All the means that can be gathered up is not to be sent from America to distant lands, while there exists in the home field a dearth of means and of laborers. Much remains to be done within the shadow of our doors—in the cities of California, New York, and many other states. I am sick at heart, but I will say no more upon this point; for I fear that if I were to write more, it could not be copied in time for the mail.
Yesterday the question as to where the General Conference should be held was brought before me, and an urgent petition was made that it be held in Healdsburg. The Healdsburg church say that they will entertain the delegates free of charge, and they are very anxious that the meeting be held there. I did not know till recently that they thought they would be able to entertain the delegates; but they say that they can do this, and they wish me to use my influence to have the meeting held there.
Seeing that the church is willing to entertain the delegates free of charge, would it not be better to hold the Conference in Healdsburg instead of in Oakland? The meeting will not be as large as the last General Conference, and I think that perhaps Healdsburg would be a more favorable place than Oakland. But I merely present the earnest petition of the Healdsburg church, as I was requested to tell you of their great desire that the meeting be held in that place.
For myself, I have little to say about where the Conference should be held; for it is a question with me whether I shall attend at all. I have been and I am still carrying very heavy burdens, and I want no more. My soul is sick and discouraged at the outlook.
I will say no more. Only I cannot see why, since Healdsburg pleads so hard for the Conference, it cannot be held there. I know that it would be very difficult to find accommodation for all the delegates in Oakland; for every nook and corner seems to be filled.
Please understand that in referring to this matter, I am speaking for others, not for myself; for I do not expect to attend the Conference.
Lt 20, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 24, 1903
Dear brother and sister Kress,—
I will try to write you a few lines this evening. The question has been raised as to whether Dr. Kress should attend the coming General Conference. This meeting will be but a small one, and I cannot see any light in our brother’s taking so long a journey at this time. The Wahroonga Sanitarium will need him; indeed I cannot see how he can be spared from the work there. As much as I should like to see many of the workers from Australia, I cannot say to them, Drop your work, and come to Conference. Dr. Kress is needed at the Sanitarium. Brother and Sister Burden are needed there also. I think that if Brother Irwin and Brother Salisbury come, Australia will be well represented.
With regard to the sanitarium work, my advice is that Brother Burden be chosen as manager of the institution. He should not be loaded down with the burden of the health food work. And with regard to the question as to where the health foods should be manufactured, let this be done at Avondale, as it has been in the past, until you have unmistakable evidence that a change will be for the best.
I wish to tell you, my dear friends, that the work here in America is to be greatly enlarged. So many times there is presented before me the work which ought to have been done in America, but which has not been done, that my soul is very heavily burdened. City after city should have been worked, and if this had been faithfully done, there would have been brought into the truth those who could have gone forth to win other souls to Christ. In every city there should be memorials for God. But the way in which the work has been managed has resulted in a depleted treasury. The lack of effort to plant the standard of truth in the cities of America has brought about a condition of things in which the consuming is larger than the producing; and how the work shall now be carried forward is a difficult problem.
The field is all ripe for the harvest, but there is no money in the treasury. Calls are coming from Europe for means to advance the work there. From England comes an urgent call for money to help to purchase a building for sanitarium work. We know not how to answer these calls. Unless the work in America is managed in a way different from the way in which it has been managed in the past, we cannot possibly send means in response to the calls for help.
Oh, my heart aches as there is presented before me the work that might have been done in many places, but which has not been done, because the doing of it demanded money that the treasury could not furnish. And more than this: many of those who claim to believe the truth are merely nominal believers. Their faith will not stand test and trial; unless they are reconverted, they will fall under the deceptions of these last days.
God’s people require a deeper, more thorough teaching than man can give. Every church member must learn to work. Every one must learn to stand in his lot and place as a burden-bearer. This all must do before they can be rooted and grounded in the truth. There must be cherished in the heart the fixed conviction that the truth for this time is a life-and-death question, not merely a round of ceremonies. We must be filled with a determined purpose to receive power from the Source of all power, that we may impart it to others. Christ must dwell in our hearts by faith. His life must circulate through us, just as the blood circulates through the body as a vitalizing current.
An occasional glance at God’s Word is not enough. The Word must be planted in the heart, that it may bring forth fruit unto life eternal. Truth abiding in the soul will spread outward, covering with the beauty of holiness the life of the child of God.
There is absolutely no safeguard against evil but truth. No man can stand firm for right in whose heart the truth does not abide. There is only one power that can make and keep us steadfast—the power of God, imparted to us through the grace of Christ. Self must be conquered by the truth, else Satan will be victorious.
It is the humble, patient, Godlike worker who will have something to show for his labors. It is not the man himself that makes the doing of the work acceptable to God. It is his earnest efforts to work out the will of God, which he has studied and intelligently accepted as his authority.
What is the ransom that was paid to preserve, in the deliverance of the transgressor, the honor of Eternal Justice? An infinite sacrifice, even the precious blood of the Son of God. To save the race from ruin, Christ became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation, received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ; as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Him do believe in God, that raised Him up from the dead, and gave Him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.” [1 Peter 1:18-21.]
What right has Christ to take the captives out of Satan’s hands? The right of having made a sacrifice that satisfies the principles of justice by which the kingdom of heaven is governed. On the cross of Calvary He paid the redemption price of the race. And thus He gained the right to rescue the captives from the grasp of the great deceiver who, by a lie framed against the government of God, caused the fall of man [] who thus forfeited all claim to be called a loyal subject of God’s kingdom.
Satan refused to let his captives go. He held them as his subjects because of their belief of his lie. He had thus become their jailor. But he had no right to demand that a price be paid for them; because he had not obtained possession of them by lawful conquest, but under false pretenses.
God, being the creditor, had a right to make any provision for the redemption of human beings. Justice demanded that a certain price be paid. The Son of God was the only One who could pay this price. He volunteered to come to this earth and pass over the ground where Adam fell. He came as the redeemer of the lost race to conquer the wily foe, and by His steadfast allegiance to right to save all who should accept Him as their Saviour.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. … And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. … And of His fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:1-4, 14, 16, 12.]
“Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow in His steps: who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth; who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, he threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously; who His own self bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.” [1 Peter 2:21-24.]
“God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For He hath made Him to be sin for us who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” [2 Corinthians 5:19-21.]
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
“I have made a covenant with My chosen, I have sworn unto David My servant, Thy seed will I establish forever and build up Thy throne to all generations.” [Psalm 89:3, 4.] God entered into a covenant to deliver the beings He had created. In this covenant both heaven and earth are concerned.
After all that has been done for the race, how, think you, does God look upon the world? How does He regard the beings whose salvation from irretrievable ruin cost Himself and His only begotten Son so much? Will those who have learned of the great price paid for their salvation, and who claim to have received Christ as their Saviour, pass by with indifference those who are perishing without God and without hope? This is the word that comes to the people of God today, “Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations; spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; for thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left; and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited.” [Isaiah 54:2, 3.]
A word further in regard to your work in the Sanitarium. You will probably have to begin small. In all financial matters, economy will have to be the rule. The work will be uphill work, but God will bless you as you strive to make the institution what He desires it to be. Remember that it is to save the souls as well as the bodies of men and women, that at the cost of great sacrifice and much taxing labor, sanitariums are established.
You may have to brave the unbelief of men and women who have become hardened in guilt. Be merciful; but never lower the standard one inch. In word and example show the tempted ones how to obtain the victory over sin.
I would warn you again, Dr. Kress, not to come to America without plain evidence that it is your duty to do this. I know that you are needed where you are.
May the Lord bless you and your wife and sanctify you to His service, and may He help you to walk and work in humble faith, with thankful, contrite hearts, is the prayer of
Your sister in Christ Jesus.
Lt 21, 1903
Those Who Chose Australia as Their Field of Labor
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 26, 1903
To Those Who at the Last General Conference Chose Australia as Their Field of Labor
Dear Brethren,—
I wish to speak to you as God’s messenger. Some things have been presented to me in regard to your relation to the laborers already in the field when you reached there. Matters have been presented to me in figures and symbols, and I must say to you, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] You are in danger of looking upon yourselves as superior to those who were in the field when you reached there. Do not yield to this inclination. I thank the Lord that He raised up these faithful men to labor with us. True, their work has in some respects been imperfect, but so also has yours. They have been ready to receive counsel and have ever tried to harmonize with their fellow workers. We highly appreciate these laborers. We have been with them in hard places. Together we have lifted the responsibilities that must be borne in a new field. And when after the last General Conference you were sent to Australia, we were glad to think that these workers were to have so much help. You did not go to labor for those who already knew the truth, but to unite with the workers in aggressive warfare in proclaiming the truth in new places.
Our church members are to be educated to depend on themselves, not on the ministers. They are to be taught to work in such a way in the neighborhood in which they live that prejudice will be removed, and souls will be won to Christ. The churches are to receive some help, but the burden of your work is not to be for them. It is not your place to listen to those church members who tell who their favorite minister is, and why they do not like such and such an one. Those who talk thus dishonor Christ in the person of His delegated ministers. Be careful not to encourage church members to give expression to these foolish preferences.
I thank my heavenly Father that though all men have not the same traits of character, they may all be worked by the same Spirit, even the Spirit of Him who is the Head of the church, and who in heaven teaches the angels how to minister to the members of His church on earth.
Jesus is ministering in the heavenly sanctuary, but He is with His workers also; for He declares, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] He is the spiritual Director of His church on earth, and He longs to see the members filled with a determination to labor harmoniously for the advancement of His kingdom. He has raised up a succession of workers who derive their authority from Him, the great Teacher. He has chosen for His work men of varied talents and varied capabilities. Some of these might not be the men you would choose, but you will pass through an experience that will lead you to see that God exalts men whom you would regard as inferior to yourselves. When the judgment shall sit, and the books are opened, many will be surprised by God’s estimate of character. They will realize that God sees not as man sees, that He judges not as human beings judge. He reads the heart. He knows the motives that prompt to action, and He recognizes and commends every faithful effort put forth for Him.
The Lord uses varied gifts in His work. Let no worker think that his gifts are superior to those of another worker. Let God be the judge. He tests and proves His workers, and He places a just estimate on their qualifications. He has placed in the church a variety of gifts to meet the varied wants of the many minds with which His workers are brought in contact.
The Lord has given to every man his work, and every man is to do the work that the Lord has given him. All have not the same gifts or the same disposition. All need to feel daily the converting power of the Holy Spirit, that they may bear much fruit for the Lord. It is not the one who preaches the gospel that provides the efficiency that makes his efforts successful. It is the Unseen Worker standing behind the minister who brings conviction and conversion to souls.
My brethren, you did not go to Australia to supersede the workers already there, but to be their companions in labor. These workers have done pioneer work, preparing the field, and this work has called for much self-sacrifice. They have given themselves without reserve to the Lord’s service. They have united with one another and with God; and He has blessed their faithful efforts. You who have entered into other men’s labors are to be very modest and very kind in your opinion of those who have prepared the way before you. Be courteous to them. Show them all the kindness that you would have them show to you. They are God’s husbandry, God’s building. You who have but lately come to the field are not to set yourselves up as judges of their work. You are all to be laborers together with God. Not one vestige of selfishness or self-exaltation is to be brought into your work.
You have much to learn. Elder Tenney, Elder Farnsworth, Elder Starr, and other excellent laborers are men to whom I know God has given a treasure of knowledge. These men have their infirmities. Every day they need a fitting up for the great work to which they have been called. But they realize their weakness, and therefore their danger is not as great as the danger of some who have more recently gone to Australia and who know so little of the battles that must be fought in a missionary field.
I have been instructed to speak words of encouragement to the men who have been fighting the battles that must be fought by the pioneer worker. There were times when the work went very hard, when it was difficult to obtain means, and when, in response to the call, “Add new territory to the Lord’s kingdom,” these workers sacrificed their earnings. The Lord has greatly blessed their faithful efforts and has given them a precious experience.
I say to you, my brethren, in the name of the Lord, Be sure that you are worked by the Holy Spirit. The Lord desires you to appreciate your fellow workers. Do not attempt to estimate them by your human measurement. This is not the work given you by God. Labor as wise men, who have been with Jesus and have learned of Him. You know not which shall prosper, this or that. Men may be added to the Lord’s working force who, though they may be regarded as of little worth to you, will be of great value to the Lord’s cause. Strip yourselves of self-exaltation and spiritual pride, and walk humbly with God. Have confidence in those who were in the field before you. Treat them as fellow laborers should be treated. Link up with them, even though you feel that your capabilities are greater than theirs. Remember that God, not man, is the judge of such matters. These men have been receiving counsel from the Lord, and they have followed His instruction. At times they have become confused, but, thank God, this was not for long.
The Lord loves these men. Their hearts are in His work. They are willing to make any and every sacrifice for the sake of saving souls. God did not call you to Australia to take the place of these self-sacrificing men. No, No! He sent you there to unite with them in enlarging His work, in breaking up new soil. You were to work by their sides; for more laborers were needed in the field. They know more of the field than you do, and you are to go to them for counsel and advice in reference to the work, showing them that it is your sincere desire to strengthen their hands.
Let all who go to new fields walk humbly with God. They are not to supersede the workers already in the field, but are to stand shoulder to shoulder with them.
When a fellow worker inquires about his place of labor, you are not to say, “We shall not need you here or there.” Say, “My brother, go to the Lord. Ask counsel of Him who is too wise to err and too good to leave your petitions unanswered. Then go to the place for which He lays on you a burden.”
The Lord calls upon His workers to love as brethren, to be tenderhearted, pitiful, courteous. Read carefully the eighteenth chapter of Matthew, and for your present and eternal good learn the lessons there taught.
There are those who have to contend against many difficulties and discouragements in their work of preaching the gospel of the grace of God. Remember that a worker is none the less approved of God because he is in trouble. His trouble drives him to God, and He never turns His face from him. Reaching out His hand, He draws him close to His heart of infinite love.
In Australia and America, and in every part of the world, a straightforward message is to be proclaimed in the power of the Holy Spirit. God says to His workers everywhere, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.] We need to feel the importance of proclaiming the gospel message with earnestness and fervor, not with tame, lifeless utterance. Our testimony is not to be borne in smothered tones. It is to be clear, decided, stirring. The messengers must know the life and power of salvation.
Ministry means much more than sermonizing. It means earnest, personal effort. And there are many different kinds of work to be done. Those who have gained an experience in God’s service are to take young, inexperienced workers with them into the harvest field, teaching them how to work successfully for the conversion of souls. They are to exhort the church members to qualify themselves for service. Those in the church who are fitted to carry responsibilities are to bear the burdens of the church work, leaving the ministers free to go forth into aggressive labor, taking with them younger men, whom they are to train for active service.
Each one has his own work. God’s servants are to cherish a strong, unselfish love for their fellow workers, gladly uniting with them. But this does not mean that one worker is to tread in the footsteps of another, imitating his manner of speech, and fashioning his life after his life. This God does not require.
God calls for evangelists. A true evangelist is a lover of souls. He hunts and fishes for men. Pastors are needed—faithful shepherds—who will not flatter God’s people or treat them harshly, but who will feed them with the bread of life.
The work of every faithful laborer lies close to the heart of Him who gave Himself for the redemption of the race.
Lt 22, 1903
Starr, Brother and Sister [G. B.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 25, 1903
Dear brother and sister Starr,—
I should much rather see you than write to you, but you are far away. Sometimes I wish that you were in America, and then again, when I think of the work that there is to be done in Australia, I am glad that you are there. You are the Lord’s evangelist, and He will surely be your comfort and your helper and your guide and your exceeding great reward. Let not your hearts be at all discouraged. I am glad that you have not written to me of any faintheartedness or depressing trials. I hope that you will both be full of comfort and hope and light and joy in the Lord. We shall see much that will cause sadness of heart, but let us not become downcast or discouraged. Let us bend our energies to expel sin from our souls, and then the Spirit of God will enter to work out for us poor, weak, fallible mortals perfection of character.
I have written an article to be read in the churches in Australia and New Zealand. I will send you a copy. Please read it to the church in the place where you may be when this letter reaches you.
Lt 23, 1903
Members of the North Fitzroy Church
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 25, 1903
To the Members of the North Fitzroy Church
Dear brethren and sisters,—
I speak to you with my pen because I cannot reach you with my voice across the broad Pacific Ocean. Remember that though you may have excellent qualifications, if the love of God is not the prevailing sentiment in your hearts, you cannot be laborers together with Him; for He is love.
The Lord desires me to call your attention to the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians. Read this chapter every day, and from it obtain comfort and strength. Learn from it the value that God places on sanctified, heaven-born love, and let the lesson that it teaches come home to your hearts. Learn that Christlike love is of heavenly birth, and that without it all other qualifications are worthless.
“If I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, but have not love,” Paul declares, “I am become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profiteth me nothing.” [Verses 1-3.]
How beautiful the earth was when it came from the Creator’s hand. God presented before the universe a world in which even His all-seeing eye could find no spot or stain, no defect or crookedness. Each part of His creation occupied the place assigned it and answered the purpose for which it was created. Like the parts of some great machine, part fitted to part, and all was in perfect harmony. Peace and holy joy filled the earth. There was no confusion, no clashing. There was no disease to afflict man or beast, and the vegetable kingdom was without taint of corruption. God looked upon the work of His hands wrought out by Christ and pronounced it “very good.” [Genesis 1:31.] He looked upon a perfect world, in which there was no trace of sin, no imperfection.
But a change came. Satan tempted Adam, and he fell. He who in heaven had become disloyal and had been cast out made lying reports of God to the beings He had created, and they listened to his reports and believed his lie. And sin entered the world, and death by sin. The consequences of our first parents’ disloyalty we now have to meet as we work for God, and until the close of this earth’s history our labors will become more and more trying.
I entreat the members of our churches not to make the work more trying than it necessarily is by watching one another for a word or an act upon which to comment unfavorably. Let them, if a report is brought to them about someone, make it a rule to do just as Christ has said should be done in such cases. Let them follow the counsel of the great Teacher who gave His life for the life of the world. His directions are plain. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Without delay make every effort to heal the wrong that exists. Do not, by speaking unwise words, give the enemy opportunity to arouse suspicion and evil surmising in the mind of your brother. Be determined to do all in your power to make the wrong right. Do not tell to a third person the story of the difficulty. Go directly to the one who has erred, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Go to him, not to condemn, but to seek for reconciliation, because Christ has told you to love one another as He has loved you.
Our gifts, our prayers, are not acceptable to God while we leave this duty undone, and let the poison of envy and evil surmising take possession of our souls, to destroy our union and happiness. O, how much unhappiness would be saved, and how many evil thoughts would be quenched, if believers would take up the work that Christ has said must be done to prevent evil speaking. We pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those that trespass against us.” [Matthew 6:12, 14, 15.] Do we do our part to answer this prayer? We are to make every effort in our power to remove every stumbling block from before the feet of our brother. But too often our prayers are hindered by our pride of heart, by our refusal to confess faults and to remove wrong impressions. Let us remember that our prayers are not acceptable to God while we suffer a fellow worker to misapprehend us. If we are not to blame for the misunderstanding that exists, we can perhaps make an explanation that will remove the misunderstanding. If we are to blame, if we have left a wrong impression on a brother’s mind, we are certainly under obligation to do all in our power to remove this <difficulty>.
In the churches in Australia and New Zealand there have been many unwise, talkative ones who through much talking have separated very friends. The churches need to be purged of this element; for where the unruly tongue finds room to do its unholy work, the joy of the Lord cannot abide.
Let the suspicious ones, who think and speak evil of their brethren, remember that they are doing the devil’s drudgery. Let each member of the church work with earnest determination, and with prayer for help, to cure the diseased member—the tongue. Let everyone feel that it is his duty and privilege to pass over little differences and mistakes without comment. Do not magnify the small mistakes made by some one, but think of the good that is in him. Each time these mistakes are thought of and talked about, they grow larger. A mountain is made out of a molehill. Ill feeling and a lack of confidence are the result.
To many these words are applicable: “Why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” [Matthew 7:3-5.]
So great is the intemperance in speech that much instruction has been given on this subject by the greatest Teacher the world has ever seen. He has given special directions for the discipline of the tongue. Study and obey these directions. Check the unwholesome words that if spoken would create differences and alienation. Speak words that will cement hearts, not estrange them; words that will heal, not wound. When difficulties arise among church members, let them be cleared away before the Sabbath comes. This should be regarded as a Christian duty by every church member. “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, … and be ye thankful.” [Colossians 3:15.] Are you troubled and perplexed? Sweep away the rubbish that has been accumulating before the door of the heart, and open the door, inviting Jesus to come in and abide as an honored guest. Bring peace and comfort into your own hearts and the hearts of others. This is most blessed missionary work.
The Lord has instructed me to say, not only to the church in North Fitzroy, but to every church in Australia and New Zealand, Work for perfection. Do nothing that will cause disaffection to spring up in hearts. Do not work for the fallen foe. Strive to overcome your inclination to find fault and condemn. Give no place to him whose delight it is to accuse the brethren. Remember, my beloved brethren and sisters, that you are pleasing and helping Satan by every word you utter that discounts your brother.
I greatly desire that you shall follow the directions which Christ has laid down. As you do this, He will certainly help you to adjust the difficulties that exist. He will help you not to make dissension by magnifying little mistakes. The light that the Lord has given me is that He will greatly bless the members of the North Fitzroy church if they will not think or speak evil of one another, but go directly to the one they think is in the wrong, and in a kind, compassionate manner point out his mistake. May the Lord help those who have learned to criticize to learn to think no evil and to speak only good words, words of comfort and healing. Then they will rejoice; for they will have evidence that they are laborers together with God.
Christ loved the church, “and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” [Ephesians 5:25-27.]
My brethren and sisters, I beseech you to give diligent heed to these words, because the day of the Lord is right upon us. You have no time to lose. Do not neglect the word of God to you.
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]
Will you not, as servants of the most high God, give heed to these words? Will you not respond to God’s mercy and compassion and love toward you by loving one another as Christ has loved you?
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verses 2, 3.] Remember that when you speak words that disparage one another, the ministry is blamed. The lack of power in the church is charged to the ministry, when often it is directly chargeable to the members, because they do not mix faith with their hearing of the Word.
The ministers are to be men of faith, men who give expression to the pure love of God. And the members are to give no offense in anything, “that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verse 3.] No unkind dealing or harsh words are to find a place in their experience.
“In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings.” [Verses 4, 5.] We should be preparing for these things; for they will come. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share in His sufferings.
“By pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.” [Verses 6-10.]
Read these words carefully, and ask yourselves if you have not been leaving undone much that God expects you to do, much that you should do as those who have the light of truth. Will you not be thoroughly converted, that you may shine brightly for the Lord amidst the moral darkness of the world?
May the Lord lead every minister and every lay member to turn to Him with full purpose of heart and make diligent work for repentance. Thus only can they obtain the sanctification of the Spirit. How true are the words of Paul: “Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.” [Verse 12.] Many complain of others because their own hearts are not in unity with the Spirit of God. When self is crucified, Christ will take possession of the soul-temple.
“Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.” [Verse 13.] It is narrow, contracted spiritual devising that causes dearth of soul.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? and what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? … for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh, and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] Let every one humble his heart before God, and make a surrender of body, soul, and spirit to Him, that He may give His people His rich grace abundantly. Let the heart be closed against all sin and selfishness. Let us follow the example of Christ. If we fail of doing this, we shall fail of receiving a welcome into the city of God. He who continues to be a transgressor of the law of God, even though he break but one precept, can have no place in the royal family.
I entreat those who have given so much time to talking of the faults of others to cease this cruel work, and obey the words, “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life.” [Matthew 5:39.] The divine directory, God’s holy Word, is in our hands. Amidst the toil of business and the unceasing activity of daily life, this Word is to be our guide. This Word is appreciated by him who is striving to overcome. It is to him a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
Let the Lord’s people set a perfect example, honoring Christ in every place, in every difficulty following His directions. Then at last a crown of life will be given them, and they will be received into the family of the redeemed.
Lt 24, 1903
Faulkhead, N. D.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 27, 1903
Dear Brother Faulkhead,—
I thank the Lord for the mercies and blessings that He bestows on me. I thank Him for the health that He gives me. I am very active for one of my age. I am seventy-five years old, but I can go up and down stairs as quickly as anyone in the house. Often in the early morning, before anyone else is awake, I go downstairs, lamp in hand, and bring up some wood. I build my fire every morning. Clarence Crisler, my faithful helper, sees that my woodbox is kept well supplied with wood, but sometimes I go down to the kitchen for a little light wood.
Since I came to this country, I have not been without trials. The first year we had no fruit. The buds were killed by a late frost. Last year the prune trees yielded abundantly, and we sold the whole crop, about forty tons, to a young man, a neighbor of ours, who bought them for drying. The prunes ripened late, and the rains came early, and many of the prunes spread out on trays in the field were destroyed. The young man failed in business, and my loss, as well as the loss of the others from whom he bought prunes, will be severe.
For the past year I have been closely pressed financially. Very little has come in to me from the sale of my books, and ten pounds a month is all that I have received from the General Conference. I have been obliged to borrow money to meet my running expenses. I hope that soon some money will come to me from Australia. I am in great need of means.
Lt 25, 1903
Faulkhead, N. D.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 27, 1903
Dear brother Faulkhead,—
Christ demands that those who take His name honor that name in spirit and word and deportment. In thought, word, and deed they are to be Christlike. Those who claim to be Christians and yet do not reveal in the life the virtues of Christ’s character bear witness against the Saviour. They dishonor Him, putting Him to open shame.
The Lord’s invitation is, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Those who respond to this invitation realize that they are under obligation to reveal Christ’s character in the daily life. The revelation of His grace in humanity is an evidence of the power of the truth. Those who profess to follow Christ, and yet do not reveal this grace, failing to hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end, must know that their profession is a fraud.
He who claims to be a follower of the meek and lowly Jesus, and who has been placed in a position of trust, is to honor His Master by being in all things what a disciple should be. He is to strive lawfully, never trying to gain advantage for himself; never grasping for the highest wages, because he realizes that if he did this, he would be robbing the treasury of means needed for the support of the work in new fields; never swerving a hair’s breadth from strict loyalty to the commandments of God.
A professing Christian cannot descend to the world’s level without dishonoring the religion of Christ and making himself disloyal. Such an one is offensive to God. The Lord cannot own him as His disciple.
The Christian is to stand on vantage ground, as a laborer together with God. But he is never to exalt himself. He is firmly to refuse the inducements presented by those who have no love for truth and righteousness, but his refusal is to be made in a Christlike spirit, not Pharisaically, with an attitude which says, “Stand aside; I am holier than thou.” [Isaiah 65:5.] He must show that he cannot enter into sin because he is pledged by a most holy profession to honor the Lord Jesus Christ. By precept and example he is to discountenance all departure from Bible principles. But at the same time, by the manifestation of Christlike love, he is to make the religion of Christ attractive. He is to allow no bigotry to be seen in his life, but is to reveal tender compassion for those who have wandered away from Christ. Brother Faulkhead, while you are connected with the Echo office, let your every word and act show that you are governed by the principles laid down in the Word of God. We are nearing the judgment, and we cannot afford to neglect one of the opportunities offered us to improve the capabilities and talents that God has given us.
My brother, never say or do anything that you will be ashamed to meet in the judgment. You and those connected with you in the management of the Echo office are in a most important position. Be sure to reveal the spirit and love of Christ. The Lord will be your efficiency, your strength, and your exceeding great reward, if you will trust constantly in Him.
While we are in this world, trials will come to us. But let us not give Satan cause for encouragement by letting him see that he can make us miserable. The Lord is good, and greatly to be praised. Walk and work in the spirit of Christ. Stand ever on guard; for temptations will come, and the Lord’s disciples are to be as true as steel to principle. The Word of God is to be our guide. About the truths that this Word contains there is no guesswork. Let us not leave this unerring guide in order to seek for something new and strange to present as a wonderful message. There are many such doctrines that have not for their foundation, “It is written.” They are but human suppositions. It was with the word, “It is written,” that Christ met every temptation of Satan in the wilderness, and armed with this weapon, He could say to the enemy, “Thus far shalt thou come, and no farther.”
We cannot with safety accept the opinions of any man, however learned, unless they are in harmony with the words of the great Teacher. The opinions of erring men will be presented for our acceptance, but God’s Word is our authority, and we are never to accept human teaching without the most conclusive evidence that it agrees with the teaching of God’s Word. We are to know that we <do> know that we are standing on the platform of eternal truth—the Word of the living God.
I am instructed to say to our people, There is marrow and fatness for all who seek for truth as the miner seeks for gold. Who is it that God will instruct? Isaiah tells us: “Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. … 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 way, and will heal him; I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him, and to his mourners”—those who see the evil of their unconverted characters, and repent, mourning over the life that has so poorly represented Christ. [Isaiah 57:15, 17, 18.]
Let the understanding that God has given you of His Word encourage you and cause you to rejoice in Him. Gather into precious unity the precious rays of light shining around you, and focus them in one blaze upon the Word, and truths hidden from the casual reader will stand forth plainly and distinctly.
All over the field of revelation are scattered grains of gold—the sayings of the wisdom of God. If you are wise, you will gather up these precious grains of truth. Make the promises of God your own. Then when test and trial come, these promises will be to you glad springs of heavenly comfort. As you study the Word, it will become to you a wellspring of wisdom. Thus you eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God.
Ask God to reveal light and truth to you by His Holy Spirit, that you may understand what you read in His Word. When, after the resurrection, Christ walked with the disciples to Emmaus, He opened their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. The same divine Teacher will enlighten our understanding, if we keep the windows of the heart opened heavenward and closed earthward. The office of the Holy Spirit is to bring all things to our remembrance and to guide us into all truth.
The Lord loves us, and we are to love Him with the whole heart. Ask Him to guide you into all truth. He will do this. He longs to do it. He is waiting for you to ask Him with true humility and a firm belief that He will hear and answer you.
The psalmist prayed, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law.” [Psalm 119:18.] The Lord heard him; for how full of assurance are the words, “How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” [Verse 103.] “More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” [Psalm 19:10.] And as the Lord heard and answered David, so He will hear and answer us, making our hearts full of gladness and rejoicing.
I speak to you, my brother, as to one in a responsible position in the Lord’s work. Walk humbly with God. He has enabled you to make decided changes in your life. Follow Him constantly, wearing His yoke gracefully, and you will learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. Keep close to the side of Christ. He desires you and your wife and children to be a self-denying, self-sacrificing company, preparing for the soon-coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven. Pray, my brother and sister, for your children, that it may be their highest desire to learn to please the Lord Jesus Christ.
My brother, I have a most earnest desire that you shall constantly follow on to know the Lord, that you may know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. Keep your mind free and your heart full of the love of Christ. Give to others that which will strengthen and refresh and bless them. May the Lord help you and all who are in responsible positions to strengthen and help one another, is my prayer.
In much love to yourself and your family.
Lt 26, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
December 10, 1902 [filed 1903]
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
The Lord desires you to be of good courage. He has a work for you to do in evangelistic lines, a work demanding more distinctly spiritual efforts than the work in which you have been engaged. The greatest and most important work in which we can engage is the preparation of a people to stand in the day of God, upon which we are just entering. May the Lord help you, my brother, to devote your God-given capabilities to winning souls to Christ. Rest in God, and walk humbly with Him. You will need much of the rich grace of the Saviour, and a deep, settled conviction that the work of the people of God is to prepare for the events of the future, which will soon come upon them with blinding force.
In the world gigantic monopolies will be formed. Men will bind themselves together in unions that will wrap them in the folds of the enemy. A few men will combine to grasp all the means to be obtained in certain lines of business. Trades unions will be formed, and those who refuse to join these unions will be marked men.
It is time for us to take our work out of the cities. Our sanitariums should be furnished with facilities for giving the sick the best of care, and they should be properly conducted; but they should be as far as possible from the cities. The whole world is to be tested, and obedience to the law of God is to be the test.
Unionism has revealed what it is by the spirit that it has manifested. It is controlled by the cruel power of Satan. Those who refuse to join the unions formed are made to feel this power. The principles governing the forming of these unions seem innocent, but men have to pledge themselves to serve the interests of these unions, or else they may have to pay the penalty of refusal with their lives.
These unions are one of the signs of the last days. Men are binding up in bundles ready to be burned. They may be church members, but while they belong to these unions, they cannot possibly keep the commandments of God; for to belong to these unions means to disregard the entire decalogue.
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] These words sum up the whole duty of man. They mean the consecration of the whole being—body, soul, and spirit—to God’s service. How can men obey these words and at the same time pledge themselves to support that which deprives their neighbors of freedom of action? And how can men obey these words and form combinations that rob the poorer classes of the advantages which justly belong to them, preventing them from buying or selling, except under certain conditions? How plainly the words of God have predicted this condition of things. John writes, “I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. … And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” [Revelation 13:11, 16, 17.]
The forming of these unions is one of Satan’s last efforts. God calls upon His people to get out of the cities, isolating themselves from the world. The time will come when they will have to do this. God will care for those who love Him and keep His commandments.
Brother and Sister Burden, we must now put on the whole armor of righteousness. We must be as true as steel to principle, standing steadfastly against every species of corruption. It is this steadfast adherence to principle that is to distinguish those who bear the seal of the living God from those who have the mark of the beast.
I write you this that in a guarded but decided way you may advise our people to keep out of the cities. But the cities must be worked; yes, and our people have been asleep, while Satan has been sowing his tares.
I have said little in regard to moving the Food Factory from Cooranbong to Sydney or even to Wahroonga, because I do not see what advantage there would be in doing this. The farther away we are from the cities, the better it will be; for they are filled with men who have no sense of honor or true elevation, men who are ambitious for gain and who to obtain gain will resort to any means.
Even some among those who profess to believe the truth will through following wrong principles become greedy for advantage. There are those in our institutions who have for so long worked for selfish ends that they cannot be trusted. They have no sense of honor or truth holiness or righteousness. Selfishness and greed have expelled from the heart the sanctifying principles of the truth. They have lost all sense of distinction between right and wrong. And because they are in responsible positions, as if position made the man, they say, “The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are we”—holy because we are handling holy things. [Jeremiah 7:4.] But the fact that they occupy an exalted position of trust only makes their guilt a hundredfold greater.
Those who love God and keep His commandments will not grasp for the highest wages. But there are those who strive to add to their wages without stopping to ask themselves whether in so doing they are not robbing a fellow worker whose lines have not fallen to him in pleasant places. Those who reason from this selfish standpoint will receive punishment with the open sinner, only they will be punished more severely, because they had opportunities and light that the open sinner had not.
There are many who will so outrage conscience and the law of God that in their hearts the pure, holy principles of truth will be corrupted. Between righteousness and truth and unrighteousness and fraud they will see no difference. Their judgment is perverted, and the position of trust they occupy is made a means of doing dishonest transactions when they think that they can do this without detection.
Lt 27, 1903
Jones, A. T.; Jones, C. H.; Wilcox, M. C.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 27, 1903
Alonzo T. Jones, C. H. Jones, and M. C. Wilcox
My Dear Brethren in Positions of Trust,—
I received your letter this morning and will respond at once.
Brother Harper came to St. Helena last week especially to lay before me the question of the location of the General Conference soon to be held. He told me that the brethren and sisters of the Healdsburg church offered to entertain the delegates free of cost if the General Conference would be held there. He asked if I had any preference to express. I told him that if the Healdsburg church proposed to entertain the delegates free, the Conference would be held at Healdsburg, if I had any voice in deciding this matter; for to hold it there would be much more in accordance with the light given to leave the cities, as much as possible, than holding it in Oakland would be.
I thought that if the brethren and sisters at Healdsburg would do what I was told they were so desirous of doing, to hold the Conference there would be much more desirable than to hold it in Oakland at this time of the year. I knew that accommodations in Oakland for entertaining so large a company were very limited and expensive.
I desire my personal preferences to have no special influence in determining where the Conference shall be held; for unless specially convinced by the Spirit of the Lord that it is my duty to be present, I will not attend, no matter where the meeting may be held. If I knew that I should have to attend the Conference, I might express my preference for Healdsburg as the location; for I could drive over and have my horse and carriage there to use at any time and to return when necessary.
At present, I most decidedly dread to attend either camp-meetings or Conferences. When present at such meetings, I am reined up to speak plainly and strongly in regard to matters; for I dare not do otherwise than to tell the truth. The burden that comes upon me at such times is very heavy. The experiences I have passed through in attending meetings since returning to America have been most afflicting; for it seems as if my efforts are of none effect. The testimonies borne bring upon me a great burden of soul and seem to accomplish so little to change the order of things. The testimonies are speculated upon and do not reform existing evils.
Just now my courage is not the best. Since the Fresno camp-meeting, I have carried the burden of the Southern field in direct opposition to the plans of leading brethren. I have lost confidence in some of these men as being taught and directed of God. If they are thus taught and directed, I am not teaching the way of the Lord. Therefore I am convinced that my place is at home. I can continue to write, if I avoid the crushing burdens that overwhelm me. And these burdens come upon me whenever I attend a meeting where there are men whom I know are not walking in the counsel of God. I care not to face such matters any longer; for it seems useless. I long for retirement, and I mean to have it, if it be the Lord’s will to give it to me.
Lt 28, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
July 21, 1902 [filed in 1903]
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
We have not forgotten you, and I write to express our deep interest in you and our love for you. We are glad that Sister Tuxford can be with you in the same line of work in which you are engaged.
My dear brother and sister, keep your eyes fixed on Christ. We are travelling over a dangerous path to a city that we see by faith. Strict watchfulness is necessary, else our feet will stumble. In order to be in the world, but not of the world, we must be ever on guard. We are to keep our light shining brightly. “Ye are the light of the world,” Christ declared. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.]
In giving His Son to this world, God has bestowed upon all who accept Christ as their Saviour the treasures of heaven. We need at this time the faith that reaches within the veil. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] Our faith in the reality of these unseen things, which we believe will soon be ours if we are faithful, fills the children of God with hope and courage in the midst of trial and affliction.
Our present and future welfare depend on the faith that we bring into the daily life. We need faith that will stand the fire of Satan’s assaults. Most terrible things are happening all around us, and only by the power of God, through faith, can we be kept.
God sees the end from the beginning. He knows the future. Let us trust to His guidance. Let us remember that we are under the command of Christ. Let us never attempt to take the wheel and guide the ship through the perils that will come. The Captain of our salvation is the only One who can do this. “Thus saith the Lord” must be our watchword if we would reach the longed-for port.
I will send you with this letter copies of what I have written lately. You will see that I am doing as much work as I have ever done in my life. And I know that you are doing all that you can to awaken in those with whom you come in contact an interest in the truth for this time.
I am glad to be able to tell you that there is a most encouraging condition of things at the Sanitarium. We have worked very hard to place matters in order, and we believe that the institution is greatly improved. The spiritual atmosphere has entirely changed. The Lord is co-operating with our efforts.
Dr. Winegar is as a nail in the right place. She stands firm for principle, and although she is so firm, she is so kind and courteous, so persuasive in word and manner, that she wins the patients. She teaches the patients’ class in the Sabbath school, and a number are becoming interested.
One such worker as this in a sanitarium is a host. I am so glad that we can have Dr. Winegar here. Brother Taylor is an excellent evangelistic worker. His heart is in the work.
I believe that our Sanitarium is being brought out of darkness into the light. Sanitarium work, properly conducted, is a means of great good. If the nurses place themselves in right relation to the work of the institution, there is developed in them self-forgetfulness, thoughtfulness, patient continuance in well-doing. Their earnest desire to help others carries with it a sympathy that is healing in its influence.
Our God has mysteriously linked the members of His family together. And while every man has his own burdens to bear, let no one forget that in helping others, he helps himself. The opening words of Christ’s sermon on the mount are an illustration of the principles laid down in His teaching. “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” He said; “for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:3.] He came to our world to bless men by pointing out the path of self-denial. In His life He showed the power of kindness and courtesy and self-sacrifice. By no word or act did He encourage self-sufficiency. In His work He has given us an example of what our work should be. No duty, however small, was neglected by Him. And He says to us, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] In order to do a great good in the world, we must be faithful in little things. Those who faithfully perform the small duties of every-day life can safely be trusted with larger responsibilities. Sanctification is not the work of a day, but of a lifetime. “This one thing I do,” Paul said, “forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 3:13, 14.]
My dear brother and sister, be of good cheer. Walk humbly and trustfully before God, remembering that He is the source of all power. Have faith in Him, and expect much. Doors will open through which you may enter to reach those not of our faith.
Lt 29, 1903
Churches in Australia and New Zealand
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 25, 1903
To the members of the churches in Australia and New Zealand
Dear Brethren and Sisters,—
I speak to you with my pen because I cannot reach you with my voice across the broad Pacific Ocean. Remember that though you may have excellent qualifications, if the love of God is not the prevailing sentiment in your hearts, you cannot be laborers together with Him; for He is love.
The Lord desires me to call your attention to the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians. Read this chapter every day, and from it obtain comfort and strength. Learn from it the value that God places on sanctified, heaven-born love, and let the lesson that it teaches come home to your hearts. Learn that Christlike love is of heavenly birth, and that without it all other qualifications are worthless.
“If I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, but have not love,” Paul declares, “I am become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profiteth me nothing.” [Verses 1-3.]
How beautiful the earth was when it came from the Creator’s hand! God presented before the universe a world in which even His all-seeing eye could find no spot or stain, no defect or crookedness. Each part of His creation occupied the place assigned it and answered the purpose for which it was created—like the parts of some great machine, part fitted to part—and all was in perfect harmony. Peace and holy joy filled the earth. There was no confusion, no clashing. There was no disease to afflict man or beast, and the vegetable kingdom was without taint of corruption. God looked upon the work of His hands, wrought out by Christ, and pronounced it “very good.” [Genesis 1:31.] He looked upon a perfect world, in which there was no trace of sin, no imperfection.
But a change came. Satan tempted Adam, and he fell. He who in heaven had become disloyal, and had been cast out, made lying reports of God to the beings He had created, and they listened to his reports and believed his lie. And sin entered the world, and death by sin. The consequences of our first parents’ disloyalty we now have to meet as we work for God, and until the close of this earth’s history our labors will become more and more trying.
I entreat the members of our churches not to make the work more trying than it necessarily is by watching one another for a word or an act upon which to comment unfavorably. Let them, if a report is brought to them about some one, make it a rule to do just as Christ has said should be done in such cases. Let them follow the counsel of the great Teacher, who gave His life for the life of the world.
His directions are plain. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Without delay make every effort to heal the wrong that exists. Do not, by speaking unwise words, give the enemy opportunity to arouse suspicion and evil surmising in the mind of your brother. Be determined to do all in your power to make the wrong right. Do not tell to a third person the story of the difficulty. Go directly to the one who has erred, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Go to him, not to condemn, but to seek for reconciliation, because Christ has told you to love one another as He has loved you.
Our gifts, our prayers, are not acceptable to God while we leave this duty undone and let the poison of envy and evil surmising take possession of our souls to destroy our union and happiness. O how much unhappiness would be saved, and how many evil thoughts would be quenched, if believers would take up the work that Christ has said must be done to prevent evil speaking! We pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those that trespass against us.” [Matthew 6:12, 14, 15.] Do we do our part to answer this prayer? We are to make every effort in our power to remove every stumbling block from before the feet of our brother. But too often our prayers are hindered by our pride of heart, by our refusal to confess faults and to remove wrong impressions. Let us remember that our prayers are not acceptable to God while we suffer a fellow worker to misapprehend us. If we are not to blame for the misunderstanding that exists, we can perhaps make an explanation that will remove the misunderstanding. If we are to blame, if we have left a wrong impression on a brother’s mind, we are certainly under obligation to do all in our power to remove this impression.
In the churches in Australia and New Zealand there have been many unwise, talkative ones who through much talking have separated very friends. The churches need to be purged of this element; for where the unruly tongue finds room to do its unholy work, the joy of the Lord cannot abide.
Let the suspicious ones who think and speak evil of their brethren remember that they are doing the devil’s drudgery. Let each member of the church work with earnest determination, and with prayer for help, to cure the diseased member—the tongue. Let every one feel that it is his duty and privilege to pass over little differences and mistakes without comment. Do not magnify the small mistakes made by some one, but think of the good that is in him. Each time these mistakes are thought of and talked about, they grow larger. A mountain is made out of a molehill. Ill feeling and a lack of confidence are the result.
To many these words are applicable: “Why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” [Matthew 7:3-5.]
So great is the intemperance in speech that much instruction has been given on this subject by the greatest Teacher the world has ever seen. He has given special directions for the discipline of the tongue. Study and obey these directions. Check the unwholesome words that if spoken would create differences and alienation. Speak words that will cement hearts, not estrange them; words that will heal, not wound. When difficulties arise among church members, let them be cleared away before the Sabbath comes. This should be regarded as a Christian duty by every church member. “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, … and be ye thankful.” [Colossians 3:15.] Are you troubled and perplexed? Sweep away the rubbish that has been accumulating before the door of the heart, and open the door, inviting Jesus to come in and abide as an honored guest. Bring peace and comfort into your own hearts and the hearts of others. This is most blessed missionary work.
The Lord has instructed me to say to every church in Australia and New Zealand, Work for perfection. Do nothing that will cause disaffection to spring up in hearts. Do not work for the fallen foe. Strive to overcome your inclination to find fault and condemn. Give no place to him whose delight it is to accuse the brethren. Remember, my beloved brethren and sisters, that you are pleasing and helping Satan by every word you utter that discounts your brother.
I greatly desire that you shall follow the directions which Christ has laid down. As you do this, He will certainly help you to adjust the difficulties that exist. He will help you not to make dissension by magnifying little mistakes. The light that the Lord has given me is that He will greatly bless His people, if they will not think or speak evil of one another, but go directly to the one they think is in the wrong, and in a kind, compassionate manner point out his mistake. May the Lord help those who have learned to criticize to learn to think no evil and to speak only good words, words of comfort and healing. Then they will rejoice; for they will have evidence that they are laborers together with God.
Christ loved the church “and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy, and without blemish.” [Ephesians 5:25-27.]
My brethren and sisters, I beseech you to give diligent heed to these words, because the day of the Lord is right upon us. You have no time to lose. Do not neglect the Word of God to you.
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]
Will you not, as servants of the most high God, give heed to these words? Will you not respond to God’s mercy and compassion and love toward you by loving one another as Christ has loved you?
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verses 2, 3.] Remember that when you speak words that disparage one another, the ministry is blamed. The lack of power in the church is charged to the ministry, when often it is directly chargeable to the members, because they do not mix faith with their hearing of the Word.
The ministers are to be men of faith, men who give expression to the pure love of God. And the members are to give no offense in anything, “that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verse 3.] No unkind dealing or harsh words are to find a place in their experience.
“In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, … in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings.” [Verses 4, 5.] We should be preparing for these things; for they will come. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share in His sufferings.
“By pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.” [Verses 6-10.]
Read these words carefully, and ask yourselves if you have not been leaving undone much that God expects you to do, much that you should do as those who have the light of truth. Will you not be thoroughly converted, that you may shine brightly for the Lord amidst the moral darkness of the world?
May the Lord lead every minister and every lay member to turn to Him with full purpose of heart and make diligent work for repentance. Thus only can they obtain the sanctification of the Spirit. How true are the words of Paul: “Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.” [Verse 12.] Many complain of others because their own hearts are not in unity with the Spirit of God. When self is crucified, Christ will take possession of the soul temple.
“Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) Be ye also enlarged.” [Verse 13.] It is narrow, contracted spiritual devising that causes dearth of soul.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? and what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? … for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh, and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] Let every one humble his heart before God, and make a surrender of body, soul, and spirit to Him, that He may give His people His rich grace abundantly. Let the heart be closed against all sin and selfishness. Let us follow the example of Christ. If we fail of doing this, we shall fail of receiving a welcome into the city of God. He who continues to be a transgressor of the law of God, even though he break but one precept, can have no place in the royal family.
I entreat those who have given so much time to talking of the faults of others to cease this cruel work, and obey the words, “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life.” [John 5:39.] The divine directory, God’s holy Word, is in our hands. Amidst the toil of business and the unceasing activity of daily life, this Word is to be our guide. This Word is appreciated by him who is striving to overcome. It is to him a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
Let the Lord’s people set a perfect example, honoring Christ in every place, in every difficulty following His directions. Then at last a crown of life will be given them, and they will be received into the family of the redeemed.
Lt 30, 1903
Murphet, E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 28, 1903
Dear Brother Murphet,—
I often think of our meeting in Tasmania, where we first saw you. The Lord was present at that meeting. We were glad to meet you, the Lord’s aged servant, and we have since felt so grateful that you were willing, in a time of great stress, to be His helping hand. We have rejoiced that you were moved by the Holy Spirit to acknowledge your stewardship by supplying means to help in establishing the work in Australia, and especially the work of erecting the Wahroonga Sanitarium. You will receive a blessing from the Lord, and so also will your son, who has stood by your side, to aid you in carrying out the purpose of your heart to advance the Lord’s work. Your assistance has greatly encouraged the workers, who have often been greatly perplexed, and indeed, put to their wit’s end, to know how to obtain the means necessary for the advancement of the work.
Let these words of Holy Writ be your consolation: “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock.” [Matthew 7:24, 25.]
In responding to the call to give of your means to help forward the Lord’s work in a time of great necessity, you have been laying up treasure beside the throne of God. Neither flood nor fire can consume this treasure. It is laid up in heaven “where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.” [Matthew 6:20.]
You have invested your money in the establishment of an institution that will bring into the truth those who will be producers as well as consumers. May the Lord in His providence lead you to see what He has wrought. May He lead you to realize that you have invested your means in a line of work that He has ordained should be done. In the Sanitarium that your money has helped to establish, workers are to be trained to be laborers together with God, to carry out the teachings of the great Medical Missionary.
Christ desires His people to be medical missionaries, able to do His will because they are acquainted with His principles of healing and are prepared to use the remedies that He Himself has provided in the form of sunshine, pure air, and water. Thousands who go down to the grave might be healed if they would go to the Lord’s dispensary rather than to the drugs that man provides.
Lately I have read in the daily paper of the death of many men in important positions in this country, men forty, fifty, sixty, and seventy years of age. Their death is almost always attributed to failure of the heart, but in reality it was caused by intemperance in eating and drinking. Doubtless many of these men were smokers and liquor-drinkers and by the use of tobacco and liquor had poisoned the system. Had their habits of eating, drinking, and sleeping been regular, and in accordance with the principles of strict temperance, they might have lived for many years longer.
“What, know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] O that our sanitariums all over the world may reveal that they are founded on the principles of health reform. The light on health reform that the Lord has permitted to shine upon us is very precious and is to be appreciated and followed by all who accept the truth for this time.
The Lord forbid that for the sake of obtaining patronage, those in charge of the Wahroonga Sanitarium should allow in the institution that which is contrary to the principles of health reform. May this Sanitarium be a place in which Christ can abide, the healing, restoring influence of His life pervading every room, for the restoring of soul and body.
Brother Murphet, I address you and your son. Thank God for our Sanitarium in Australia. And may the Lord, who moved upon your hearts by His Holy Spirit, giving you a desire to be His helping hand in returning to Him His own, greatly bless you, my dear brethren.
I thank the Lord for the health that He gives me. I can walk up and down stairs as quickly and easily as a young girl. I eat only two meals a day. But I do not think that the number of meals should be made a test. If there are those who are better in health when eating three meals, it is their privilege to have three. I choose two meals. For thirty-five years I have practiced the two-meal system. The Lord preserves my brain power and enables me to write, and I thank Him with heart and soul and voice.
In the Word of God we have most precious truth. Let us praise and glorify His holy name. We are almost home. A little while longer, and we shall see our Redeemer. We may not live till He comes, and yet we may, though old age is telling upon us.
May the rich blessing of God rest upon you, and upon those associated with you in family relation, is my earnest prayer.
Lt 31, 1903
Robinson, Brother and Sister [A. T.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 28, 1903
Dear brother and sister Robinson,—
I can write you only a few lines; for the mail goes today at noon. We should be very much pleased to see you and talk with you. But we are a long way from you, and all that we can do is to trace with the pen words that express our love for you and our deep interest in you. You have our sympathy as you labor in Queensland, where the work must be very hard, on account of the long drouth from which the country has suffered. My dear brother and sister, look on the bright side. Trust in God with a confidence that will not fail or be discouraged.
I should indeed be glad to see you and talk over with you the strange experiences through which we have passed during the past two years. Ever since I came to America, I have been engaged in taxing labor. I cannot but feel deeply in regard to the condition of things in our institutions. In some of them we can see but little in the way of reform. But we must continue to urge them to make determined efforts to reach the highest standard.
I am so situated that I could do a large work in preparing my writings for publication in book form, if it was not that my energies are divided. Much of my time has to be spent in writing words of reproof and counsel to those who, though occupying positions of trust, have not carried successfully the burden of the work, but have needed to be worked by the Holy Spirit. I feel deeply pained by the indifference manifested in regard to setting in operation plans of work that would carry the truth to thousands who have never heard the third angel’s message. As I have thought of the work that is left undone, I have been unable to sleep. From the time that I came to this country until now, it has been a terrible battle. At one time, I was so sick that I almost gave up hope of recovery. But I kept praying, and although not raised up, I was made wondrously able to depend on my Saviour, though suffering intense pain. At that time I lost about thirty pounds in weight and have not yet regained this.
The lack of love among believers is one of the surest evidences that Christ is not dwelling in their hearts. There is a strong desire to hinder and repress some one who is doing a good work. This is the most bitter, grievous spirit that I have ever had anything to do with. One accuses another, and one worker wants another worker, who occupies a higher office, to be removed from his position. It seems as if the spirit of accusation, of thinking and speaking evil, is now in every place. Let us give no place to the enemy. Let us refuse to think or to speak evil. Let us take the Word of God and give it in strong portions to those who are mischief makers, who know not what they are about. The Lord has nothing to do with the plans that are devised to separate brethren. These are the enemy’s devices and must be met and condemned. It has cost me much mental anguish to do this; for I know that the Spirit of the Lord has been and still is grieved.
Christ’s instruction to the disciples, recorded in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew, is right to the point. God does not desire any man to draw apart from his brethren.
In the messages to the churches, given in the first, second, and third chapters of Revelation, is given the history of Satan’s effort to bring dissension into the church. I know something in regard to these difficulties, which must be met today. The members of the church in Ephesus, the message to which is given in verses one to five of the second chapter, possessed excellent qualifications, and these are mentioned by the true Witness. But Satan through his subtlety succeeded in destroying much of the good that had been accomplished. Christ was therefore compelled to say to them: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Verses 4, 5.]
The message to the church in Sardis is full of instruction for us: “These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” [Revelation 3:1-5.]
The explanation of the condition existing in the churches today is given more fully in the message to the Laodicean church: “These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold not hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” [Verses 14-19.]
This is the work that we must do. Let us rest not until it is completed—until the loss of love for Christ and for the brethren is repented of as a grievous sin. I pray that God’s people may put away this wrong; for it is the seal of death to the spirituality of the church. There will be a dearth of spirituality until the sin of evil speaking among our people is repented of and forsaken. This sin must no longer exist in the church. We must take hold of this masterly element and deal with it uncompromisingly, yet not in such a way as to lose our love for our brethren and sisters. With kindness and courtesy let us give strict attention to this matter and bring to an end the satanic activity of those who by their own sinful imaginations make their fellow beings guilty.
Brother and Sister Robinson, let us do what we can to correct this evil. Let us pray that there shall be a crucifixion of self in our churches and that we shall have the vital breath of the Christ-life in the soul.
I shall not be able to write more now. May the Lord bless and strengthen you. I desire very much to see you, but will await God’s time.
In love to you both and to Gladys.
Lt 32, 1903
Farnsworth, Brother and Sister [E. W.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 28, 1903
Dear brother and sister Farnsworth,—
I have just been reading the ninth chapter of Matthew. If our churches could but understand the wonderful things there related, what a history of experience would be opened before us.
“Behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed; and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. And behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. And Jesus knowing their thoughts, said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith He to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. And he arose and departed, to his house. But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.” [Verses 2-8.]
All this Jesus did while standing at the head of the human race, his divinity clothed with humanity.
We look back at the preceding chapter and see how wonderfully He wrought. After stilling the water, He went into the country of the Gergesenes, and “there met Him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way.” [Matthew 8:28.]
Satan drove these insane men into Christ’s presence. But as they met the Saviour, they found that they were bound with something stronger than the chains that they had broken, and they cried out, “What have we to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of God? Art Thou come hither to torment us before the time?” [Verse 29.] At the name of Christ, even the devils believe, and tremble. They acknowledge that He is the Son of God, and yet they are devils still, and how greatly this increases their condemnation!
“And there was a good way off from them an herd of swine feeding. And the devils besought Him, saying, If Thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine. And He said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine; and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters.” [Verses 30-32.]
Then the keepers of the swine went into the city, and told the people what Jesus had done, how He had cast the evil spirits out of the men, and how these spirits had entered into the swine, causing the loss of the entire herd. Satan was working against Christ through these men, making the people believe that He had destroyed their property. The whole city came out to meet Jesus, but instead of welcoming Him to their homes, instead of bringing their sick to be healed by Him, “they besought Him that He would depart out of their coasts.” [Verse 34.] Their covetousness made them wish to get rid of Him.
“And He entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into His own city.” [Matthew 9:1.] He took the people at their word. Never does He force His presence on any one.
The Gergesenes desired Christ to depart. They of Capernaum received Him, and among them He wrought wonderful miracles.
Christ has all power in heaven and in earth. He is the great Physician, upon whom we are to call when suffering from physical or spiritual disease. Over the winds and the waves and over men possessed with demons, He showed that He possessed absolute control. To Him have been given the keys of death and of hell. Principalities and powers were made subject to Him, even while in His humiliation.
Paul writes, “Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fulness of Him that filleth all in all.” [Ephesians 1:15-23.]
Why do we not exercise greater faith in the divine Physician? As He worked for the man with the palsy, so He will work today for those who come to Him for healing. We have great need of more faith. I am alarmed as I see the lack of faith among our people. We need to come right into the presence of Christ, believing that He will heal our physical and spiritual infirmities.
We are too faithless. O how I wish that I could lead our people to have faith in God. They need not feel that in order to exercise faith, they must be wrought up into a high state of excitement. All they have to do is to believe God’s Word, just as they believe on another’s word. “He hath said it, and He will perform His Word.” Calmly rely on His promise, because He means all that He says. Say, He has spoken to me in His Word, and He will fulfil every promise that He has made. Do not become restless. Be trustful. God’s Word is true. Act as if your heavenly Father could be trusted.
This morning I have been reading of your success in Adelaide. Praise the Lord. Keep the work progressing. I am so glad that the church in Adelaide has been given an opportunity to recover from the terrible work done there by the enemy, which caused so much division and strife.
As a church, we have received great light. This light the Lord has entrusted to us for the benefit and blessing of the world. To us has been given the ministry of reconciliation. With power from on high we are to beseech men to be reconciled to God. We are encouraged to pray for success, with the divine assurance that our prayers will be heard and answered. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:19, 20.] “Ask of Me, and I will answer your requests.”
The promise is made on condition that the united prayers of the church are offered, and in answer to these prayers there may be expected a power greater than that which comes in answer to private prayer. The power given will be proportionate to the unity of the members and their love for God and for one another.
Men are appointed to proclaim the truth in new places. These men must have funds for their support. And they must have a fund to draw upon for the help of the poor and needy whom they meet in their work. The benevolence that they show toward the poor gives influence to their efforts to proclaim the truth. Their willingness to help those in need gains for them the gratitude of those they help and the approval of heaven.
These faithful workers should have the sympathies of the church. The Lord will hear prayer in their behalf. And the church should not fail to show a practical interest in their work.
No one lives to himself. In God’s work each one is assigned a post of duty. The union of all strengthens the work of each. As the faith and love and unity of the church grow stronger, their circle of influence enlarges, and ever they are to reach to the farthest limit of this influence, constantly extending the triumphs of the cross.
God calls upon us to burst the bands of our precise, indoor service. The message of the gospel is to be borne in the cities and outside of the cities. We are to call upon all to rally round the banner of the cross. When this work is done as it should be, when we labor with divine zeal to add converts to the truth, the world will see that a power attends the message of truth. The unity of the believers bears testimony to the power of the truth that can bring into perfect harmony men of different dispositions, making their interests one.
The prayers and offerings of the believers are combined with earnest, self-sacrificing efforts, and they are indeed a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Men are converted anew. The hand that once grasped for recompense in higher wages has become the helping hand of God. The believers are united by one interest—the desire to make centers of truth where God shall be exalted. Christ joins them together in holy bonds of union and love, bonds which have irresistible power.
It was for this unity that Jesus prayed just before His trial, standing but a step from the cross. “That they all may be one,” He said; “as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.]
God calls upon those who are half awake to arouse and engage in earnest labor, praying to Him for strength for service. Workers are needed. It is not necessary to follow rules of exact precision. Receive the Holy Spirit, and your efforts will be successful. Christ’s presence is that which gives power. Let all dissension and strife cease. Let love and unity prevail. Let all move under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. If God’s people will give themselves wholly to Him, He will restore to them the power they have lost by division.
May God help us all to realize that disunion is weakness and that union is strength.
This is the message God has given me for the churches: “I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Revelation 3:18-22.]
Lt 33, 1903
White, J. E.; White, Emma
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 29, 1903
Previously unpublished.
Dear children Edson and Emma,—
Maggie has just come in to tell me that the mail must go in ten minutes. I shall try to write you a few lines, in answer to the letter which I received from you yesterday. I have decided to attend the Conference, because of special impressions made on my mind last night. I had decided not to go, but I dare not now hold to this. If my health continues to be as good as it is now, I shall attend.
I agree with what you say in regard to the importance of your work at Nashville, and I shall not urge you to come to Conference; for you would have to leave work essential to be done. I am thankful for the change in the work in Nashville. I rejoice that as a result of the meeting held there, the outlook is more favorable. Do not let the enemy have any chance to counteract the good that has been done.
Today I am sending you some copies. Please use wise judgment in the use you make of them.
Remember me to Brother W. O. Palmer and his wife. Tell them that I mention them often in my prayers. Encourage all to have hope and courage in the Lord. Be of good cheer, and do not forget to praise the Lord for His blessings.
In much love to you both.
Lt 34, 1903
White, J. E.; White, Emma
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 1, 1903
Previously unpublished. +
Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I sent you a short letter a few days ago telling you that I had decided to attend the General Conference. I believe that the Lord will give me words to speak to the people. I told you in my letter that I saw no reason why you should not remain away from the Conference, if you wished to do so on account of your work in Nashville. But I have thought since that I was too quick to respond. Every move that we make at this time means much. Before beginning to build the tower, we must sit down together and count the cost, to see whether we shall be able to finish it.
I am desirous that both of you shall attend the Conference. The work that has been begun at Nashville is important, but it is not yet fully understood by our people generally, and for this reason I do not think that it would be best for you to remain away from the Conference. For many years the Southern work, and the way in which it has been neglected, has been kept before me. I have been instructed in regard to the work that is to be done in the various cities of the South. You know much in regard to the field and can speak intelligently about its needs. You can now do for the field more than ever before, because you are willing to sink self out of sight.
Your silence when accused has given your brethren a confidence in you that otherwise they would not have had. Your effort to control your natural impetuosity has done more to assure your brethren that you have a genuine experience than anything you could have said, however wise or however true.
I do not say that you must come to the Conference. But I do say that this meeting will give you an opportunity to do much for the work in the South by presenting those features of the work that others are not prepared to present. And when you speak of these features, let your brethren see that you are not seeking to condemn them, but to place the facts before the people. We all have infirmities to contend with, and no worker is to look upon himself as superior to his fellow workers. God’s work is to be carried forward in love and harmony.
The Lord will teach us His will and His way, if we are willing to be taught. Your brother and I have as strong reasons to urge as any one for not wishing to attend the Conference. But we desire to move harmoniously and to be in line, and we shall meet with our brethren and sisters at this meeting, that we may know how to take up the work.
At that time the work for two years must be carefully considered and prayerfully taken up—not rashly, but in the fear of God. The Southern work and the publishing work will both receive consideration, and your knowledge of these lines of work will be needed.
The work in which we are engaged is the Lord’s, and if we have success in it, we must take counsel of the Lord. We are His workmen, and we must be taught of Him and led of Him at every step. And we must also counsel together, that we may labor in harmony. We are living in trying times, and we need to realize the importance of united effort.
Now, my son, I do not wish to enforce anything upon you, but I wish you to have a full understanding of what you are working to achieve. Till Jesus comes, our warfare will be an aggressive one. Every true Christian will meet with severe trials. An increasing capacity to enjoy the privileges of the Christian life means an acquaintance with suffering. The Christian is like his Master—a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Those who in heaven share in Christ’s glory must in this world share in His suffering. Yet we are never to forget that it is our privilege to sit together with Christ in heavenly places.
Tuesday, February 3
Today we are having a snowstorm—the first real snowstorm that I have ever seen in California. Yesterday and the day before the sun shone brightly. Today the snow has been falling since eight o’clock this morning.
W. C. [White] is suffering from a severe cold on his lungs. He has taken treatment at the Sanitarium, and I think he will soon be better. We have had no special talk together since his return, but he thinks as I do about your coming to Conference. There are many things to be settled at this meeting, and you will wish to know about them. Then, too, we can talk over our book work together.
I cannot write more today. I slept very little last night, and I am greatly in need of rest. Will write to you again soon.
Lt 35, 1903
Hall, L. M.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 25, 1903
Dear Sister Hall,—
I hoped to receive a letter from you telling me where to address you. I have been troubled much with my eyes. I have had a serious time with them. I thank the Lord that they are much better now, but I dare not tax them. I cannot venture to use them much; for when I do, I am soon reminded that I have overstepped the bounds.
I am very anxious to receive words from you, that I may know where you are. We pray for you, that the great Physician may say to you, Be whole. You have had a very busy life and have not spared yourself. I am glad that the Lord understands the true situation of every one of us. He knows how to help us.
Come to us as soon as you can settle up your business in Battle Creek. Your room is waiting for you. Sister Nelson came home, by her own request, the day before yesterday. She takes right hold just as if she had not been away for nearly three months. We are glad that she is in her old place again.
I am so sorry that on account of my eyes I cannot do the writing that I desire to do. If I could do this writing, I think my mind would be relieved of its heavy load. The petition of my heart is, “Lord, give me my eyesight.” I believe that He will hear my prayer. For weeks I have not been able to write anything, but for the last few days I have been improving. I ride out every day, but this does not relieve my eyes. It seems to make them worse.
I will send you a copy of my book on Education as soon as I know where you are. We expect to receive some copies of the book the last of the week. Marian has been home for about two weeks.
I am carrying a very heavy burden. Some nights I sleep but little. I am not sure that it will be wisdom for me to attend the General Conference. If I went, I could not give any further evidence, in any wise, than I gave at the last General Conference. Then the Lord gave me a message for His people, and if they desire to know their spiritual standing, they can read the Bulletin of the last Conference, and then see themselves as a people who have had light, but have not walked in it; a people to whom the Master’s will has been made known, but who have refused to do it. Since the Conference, many who might have made diligent work for repentance have added to their guilt by refusing to be converted. They knew their Master’s will, but did it not.
I do not feel it my duty to go through the same amount of labor that I went through at the last General Conference. The opportunities and blessings of heaven have covered men as a canopy, but they have not received the rich impartation of the Spirit of God. They did not follow the Master in self-denial and sacrifice, lifting the cross, and, in so doing, placing themselves on vantage ground; and increased light would be to them increased condemnation.
My work is very clearly presented—to put into print all the light that I am capable of giving in behalf of the truth. I am sure that many will be brought into trying places. Because they have not walked in the light, because they have not followed on to know the Lord, they will be deceived by the enemy. He will lead them to call darkness light and falsehood truth.
Like the Jews in the days of Christ, many today hear and believe, but are not willing to step out upon the platform of obedience and accept the truth as it is in Jesus. They are afraid of losing worldly advantages. Their minds assent to the truth, but to obey means to lift the cross of self-denial and sacrifice, and to cease trusting in man and making flesh their arm; and they turn away from the cross. They might sit at the feet of Jesus, learning daily of Him whom to know aright is life eternal, but they are not willing.
Every one who is saved must surrender his own plans, his ambitious schemes, which mean self-glorification, and follow where Christ leads the way. The understanding must be yielded up to Christ for Him to cleanse and refine and purify. This will always be done when a right reception is given to the teachings of the Lord Jesus. It is hard for self to die daily, even when the wondrous story of God’s grace is presented with the wealth of His love, which He unfolds to the soul’s necessity.
O how much we need a more intimate acquaintance with the Lord Jesus. We need to enter into His will and carry out His purposes, saying with the whole heart, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] O how I long to see our churches in a condition different from the condition in which they now are—grieving the Holy Spirit day by day with their lukewarm religious life, a life neither cold nor hot. Christ says, “I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” [Revelation 3:15, 16.] O how greatly Christ would be honored and glorified before irreligious, worldly men and women if His followers were what they claim to be—true Christians, the love of Christ constraining them to make Him known before an idolatrous world, showing the marked contrast between those who serve God and those who serve Him not.
I see such loftiness of spirit in those who profess to believe in Christ! I am pained, deeply pained, by night and day, to see them more like worldlings than like Christ. God expects to receive from all who believe in Him the love of a heart filled with devotion.
We shall find it profitable to be distrustful of ourselves. Christ has revealed Himself as wise, patient, longsuffering, full of divine pity. Be assured that He will not break the bruised reed. He will tenderly lead your steps in safe paths into all truth. He will gladden the hearts of all who will give themselves to His guidance. He will impart to them gracious instruction.
O how I long to speak these words to those who are not so lofty in their own ideas that they have lost their appetite for the precious grace of Christ’s love. This is the instruction that we so much need, that we may impart it to worn, weary souls. You and I must be where we can feed the souls who are longing to hear words of light and life. We shall feel heart-sore and sad as we see so many who might be earnest, successful workers in taking the light to others, unwilling to do what it is their privilege to do. Nevertheless, we are to tell others of the love of Christ, and in order to do this, we must know by experience what it means to have this love in the heart. All will find abundant opportunities to work if they will improve the opportunities that come to them. Eternity, eternity is before us. There is eternal life for us to gain. In no case must we lose an opportunity to speak a word in season to one that is weary, an opportunity to sow the seeds of truth. Christ, the Majesty of heaven, clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to stand at the head of the human race, that He might make men and women partakers of the divine nature, giving them grace to overcome as He overcame. The promise is made, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” [Verse 21.]
“The grace of God, that bringeth salvation, hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” [Titus 2:11-14.]
Lt 36, 1903
Brethren and Sisters
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 22, 1903
This letter is published in entirety in RH 03/10/1903.
An Appeal in Behalf of the Washington, D.C. Church
Dear Brethren and Sisters,—
I have been pleased to learn, through reading the Review, and from letters from Elder J. S. Washburn, that a church building in Washington, D.C., formerly known as the Central Methodist Protestant Church, has been purchased by the Second Seventh-day Adventist Church of this city. A house of worship was greatly needed by our people in the section of the city where this property is situated. The purchase of this church will provide a suitable place in which witness can be borne to the truths we advocate. The building will stand as a memorial for God.
This property must now be paid for. Some payments have already been made, but a large sum must yet be raised to complete the payments. We therefore ask those who have means to act as the Lord’s helping hand by doing something to help to free this church from debt. Every penny given will help. If all will give what they can, the indebtedness will soon be liquidated. We pray that those who can help in this enterprise may be constrained to do so by their love for Christ. We regard the purchase of this church property as a wise step, and your co-operation in assisting the brethren there to pay for it will bring you into harmony with the beneficent purposes of the gospel.
Let those who have means use it wisely. It is a talent lent them by the Lord to be used when called for to advance His cause. In the place of spending money for selfish pleasure, let every one deny self and lift the cross. God’s blessing will follow.
Do not all of our people desire to share in the privilege of paying for the house of worship in Washington, D.C.? If every one of the many believers in this country would give something, the necessary sum would be raised, and the amount given by each would scarcely be missed. Let us help our brethren in the national capital; for they are too poor and too few in number to bear the burden alone. Those who share in this missionary enterprise by making gifts large or small, according to their ability, will ever after feel a deeper interest in the progress of the Lord’s cause in Washington. Those who respond to this call, making gifts to the Lord for the purchase of this church property, will receive rich blessing for so doing.
NOTE: All gifts should be sent to Elder J. S. Washburn, 1728 Fourteenth St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
Lt 37, 1903
Haskell, Brother and Sister [S. N.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 28, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell,—
We have had no letter from you for some time. We should be pleased to receive a letter, if you are able to write to us. We have often prayed for you and at times have felt anxious in regard to your whereabouts. I do not know where to direct this letter so will send it in care of the Pacific Press office in New York City.
My eyes have been troubling me so severely that for some time past I have not been able to use them. I can write a little now, but am unable to tax my eyesight much yet. Will you not unite with me in asking the Lord to heal me? I am praying for the Lord to speak the word, saying, “Be healed of thine infirmities.”
Since the last General Conference held in Battle Creek, I have carried a very heavy burden, because I have keenly realized the great lack in the publishing plant there. For weeks I did not sleep past twelve o’clock. This was before the plant was burned. Light was given me that the spiritual blindness manifested by those connected with this institution was caused by their neglect to do a thorough work of confession and repentance, with contrition of soul seeking the Lord most earnestly. I was instructed that there was so manifest a disregard of the word of God, given in the Testimonies of His Holy Spirit, that the Lord would turn and overturn, visiting Battle Creek with His judgments.
While at Los Angeles last September, it was presented to me that in our institutions there were many things that needed to be reformed. The truth was not exalted. The name of the Lord was not honored by those who, professedly, were doing His service; and therefore He could not honor the names of these unfaithful stewards. Many were defiled by unfair dealing. I carried this burden until I was unable to obtain sleep after twelve o’clock; yet I kept writing, tracing these matters on paper during the early morning hours and all through the day, as I was moved by the Spirit of God to make a record of many things that I may have to use.
I have received very long letters from Dr. Kellogg and from my nephew Frank Belden; but I dare not read these letters, lest in them there might be some things that would sadden my heart. Anything that causes me to feel sad is a great injury to me physically. My head becomes hot, as if it were a heated furnace, and my nose bleeds. Then for a time all work has to cease.
I am recovering somewhat, slowly regaining strength. After the news came that the office of publication was burned, relief came to my mind. All through the fall council meeting held in Battle Creek, I was trying to warn the brethren. I wrote day and night. In the visions of the night it was represented to me that a sword of fire was drawn over Battle Creek; and in the daytime, while my pen was in my hand, I lost consciousness, and it seemed as if this sword of flame were turning first in one direction and then in another. Disaster seemed to follow disaster, because God was dishonored in the devising of men to exalt and glorify themselves.
But I must not write any more. The condition of my head forbids it. Please write to me; for I cannot write much. We expect you to attend the General Conference. We shall be glad, so glad, to see you.
In love.
Lt 37a, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
Oakland, California
April 1, 1903 [?]
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
I have written a lengthy letter to Brother and Sister Kress and it is for you as well, but I thought I would trace a few lines to you. We are in the midst of our Conference and we are very, very much in earnest that everything shall move off rightly. The people attending the Conference need so very much transformation of character, for this will impart a moral elevation and purity of faith in the truth for this time which is in our religious service beyond all price. It will confirm our energies, it will tend to raise us up above common tittle-tattle and will intensify our actions; and the wisdom of Christ will be expressed in all our movements.
I wish to speak of Brother Sharp. Give him enough to do, and keep him from going back to the world. We must help one another, we must be kind, attentive to each other, cultivating an interest in each other. I do not wish Brother Sharp to link up with Dr. Caro. Every soul needs so much connection to God every day—true surrender of the soul to God. All the speculations of commercial life, all the schemes of moneymaking—these are snares.
The Lord is soon to come. We have none too much time to prepare to meet our Saviour coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. All of us individually must face the question, Are we ready? Have we washed our robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb? There is no discharge in this war. All the wealth of the world could not purchase for us one hour of time to prepare for the great issue. My brother, do not, I beg of you, become entangled in any enterprises that shall in any way cloud your faith.
“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:11, 12.
Consider these great and solemn truths that concern us. The plain facts are set before us for a purpose, that we shall not be negligent to prepare for that great, grand review. For those whose names are written in the book of life it is no judgment at all. Every case has been decided, and all those whose names are not written in the book of life shall be judged according to their works.
Now in 1903 we have a most solemn work before us on our own account. “Is my name written there?” Let not cares be so magnified that the time shall be occupied in many cares that are not positively essential. The seriousness of this question presses upon my mind with an intensity that I cannot express. Time is passing, and when I am presented with the many churches that are not prepared to work for the Master but are in a careless, unconcerned state, I am alarmed, and inquire, What can I say, what can I do to change this order of things? I can say, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:36, 37.
I think none of us is in a state to realize we must be laborers together with God. Many do not understand what true conversion means, what it involves. And now I address you and your family, that you may be aroused and impressed with the solemn duty to seek to arouse them to a sense of the need of most diligent watching and seeking to save perishing souls out of Christ. Every day warn someone who knows not that the end of all things is at hand.
Not one jot or tittle of God’s holy requirements will ever be changed to meet man in his unready condition. His holy Word will never change or be done away. The world is asleep in their sins. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but His Word can never pass away. All of us must be guided by the Word of God. What a work is before us, and professed Christians realize it not! “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3.
This truth stands forth as the words of our Redeemer in all their moral force and deep solemnity. There are many who are employed in doing service in many lines of religious work, but they are not converted. Oh, shall we lead the five virgins who went forth to meet the bridegroom without oil in their vessels with their lamps? The heart work needs to be done. Envy, evil surmisings, speaking evil, thinking evil—their souls lifted up unto vanity, loving to be exalted!
How few realize the influence of the little things in this life. Those who can bear the test, the proving of God, will be acknowledged of Christ. The truth, saving truth, of God’s Word, lived, will fit us for the company of the redeemed. God help us to appreciate moral excellence. Refined mental qualities, sanctified, are of more value than the gold of Ophir. The formation of a true moral standing with God is the work of a lifetime. Teach this, my dear brother and sister, by precept and example.
I wish you were with us. In much love.
Lt 38, 1903
White, J. E.; White, Emma
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 2, 1903
Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I was pleased to get your letter saying that you would be at the General Conference. I wish that Brother Palmer also could attend, but I do not know whether he would be able to leave his home.
Lately my eyes have troubled me so much that I have been unable to use them without much suffering, so you will have to excuse a short letter. Will you remember me in your prayers? I suffer much with pain in my head and eyes. I have committed my case to the Lord. He can work in my behalf. I am praying to Him as my merciful Physician, and I believe that He will work for me.
W. C. [White] is doing all that he possibly can to prepare for the General Conference.
Dr. Willie Jones came in this morning and surprised us. He is at present a patient at the Sanitarium here. He has been sick for three weeks with a fever at Longbeach, Southern California. He came home about a week ago and will take treatment for a while at the Sanitarium.
We pray for you in Nashville, and we plead that the Lord will every day work to prepare His people to do honor to their Redeemer. O how many times I think, If we would but seek the Lord with all the heart, and work and walk in faith, what a blessing we should receive!
We must not allow ourselves to become so weary that we easily lose our self-control. When we lose self-control, we speak without due reverence or respect for one another. We are Christ’s representatives, and our words must be well chosen. They must be words that will bless and encourage those who hear. How many ways there are in which we can co-operate with the Saviour by bearing one another’s burdens! As we wear Christ’s yoke of restraint and obedience, and learn of Him His meekness and lowliness, we shall find rest. He says, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.]
My children, watch unto prayer, and become more and more careful in regard to your words and your deportment. “Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” [Mark 14:38.] It is poor policy to give the enemy the slightest advantage. My son, be gentlemanly, and you will strengthen your influence over those with whom you work. Never speak unadvisedly. Let your respect for yourself as Christ’s representative keep you from giving way to anger. If we respect ourselves by wearing Christ’s yoke, we shall increase our influence tenfold.
Human nature will continue to be human nature, but it can be elevated and ennobled by union with the divine nature. It is by partaking of the divine nature that men and women escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Truth must be practiced in order to be a power in the world. When truth abides in the heart, the daily experience is a revelation of the controlling power of Christ’s grace. Never keep the truth in the outer court. Let the Holy Spirit stamp it on the soul.
The Bible is the most precious lesson book that you can study. In studying it, you hold communion with God. If you are an earnest Bible student, you will, when standing before a congregation, speak with power and assurance.
Reverence God and His purchased possession. Be careful of your manners, because you are Christ’s representative. Guard your words carefully, and labor earnestly for the conviction and conversion of sinners. Keep the heart uplifted to God in prayer. When unkind, untrue words are spoken to you, do not lose control of yourself. Remember that “a soft answer turneth away wrath,” and that “he that rules his spirit” is greater “than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 15:1; 16:32.]
A true Christian is a gentleman. Those who are filled with conceit think it their privilege to say many things that might better be left unsaid. Fewer words and more kind actions would make them a power for good. God declares, “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.] All our words and deeds, good or evil, are passing in review before God. How solemn the thought!
The Word of God warns us not to provoke one another to wrath. But there is one kind of provoking that is justifiable. Paul writes: “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised:) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” [Hebrews 10:23, 24.]
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and be not entangled again in the yoke of bondage.” [Galatians 5:1.] There are those who speak words that to them are a yoke of bondage. But those who walk in the liberty of the Spirit bear witness to their freedom by the choice, profitable words that they speak.
“The foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. … The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves, if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” [2 Timothy 2:19, 24-26.]
Please read to your fellow workers such parts of this letter as you think will be a help to them. I feel deeply in earnest. There is a great work to be done in many places. The Lord will be with you as long as you will be with Him. When you are tried, as you will be, do not retaliate. The one who does wrong shall himself suffer for the wrong that he hath done. Do not become discouraged. There is at the present time a dearth of means. We must walk and work by faith, not by sight. The Lord will test and prove His people, and He will open ways whereby His truth shall be wonderfully advanced. The charge of Paul to Timothy, I repeat to you: “Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] May God bless you, and give you strength to walk wisely in safe paths.
Your mother.
Lt 39, 1903
Wessels, John J.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 28, 1903
My dear brother John Wessels,—
I have received and read your letter. About a week ago I took the letter over to your wife, that she and her mother might read it. We were all pleased with the spirit in which the letter was written, and we have been and are still hopeful that you will fully return to the Lord and will not allow the enemy to steal a march on you.
I have felt very sorry for you, because you have walked contrary to the will and way of God and have done despite to His grace. In the past I have been deeply grieved by your course of action in regard to my work, and especially in regard to the report that you made to Dr. Kellogg. This report was not true, and the impression left by it on the doctor’s mind was in no way helpful to him. O how sorry I felt to think that you should lose your spiritual discernment and do me such harm by false representation, when I had tried in every way to be your friend.
The Lord gave me a testimony for you, and had you received and obeyed this testimony, had you exerted all your influence to draw your mother and your other relatives from Africa, how changed all would now be. From the light given me, I know that had you remained away from Africa, you could have drawn your mother and your brothers away from the fascinating temptations prepared by the enemy to ruin them. It was the Lord’s desire that every member of your family should be out of Africa during the Boer war, and this is why I pressed the matter so urgently. I did not then see all the results, but I was shown in figures that you were in great danger of giving up the faith; and afterward, you did practically give it up.
You are now in Africa again. My brother, be as firm as a rock to principle, unmoved by the seductive influences that have led your brothers to become untrue to the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of satanic agencies. I cannot help weeping as I think of how merciful the Lord has been to you, notwithstanding your perversity. His hand has ever been stretched out to save you. I am much encouraged by the stand that you have taken. And I have hope for Philip, I have hope for Peter, I have hope for Henry and Dan and Andrew. God has not given them up to be lost. In His great mercy He still suffers His Spirit to strive with them.
In the visible creation, divine wisdom is manifested in an endless variety of processes. Uniformity is not the rule that is followed in the kingdom of nature. Neither is it the rule that is followed in the kingdom of grace. In different ways God works to attain one purpose—the saving of souls. By different methods the gracious Redeemer deals with different minds. The change of heart is as truly wrought out by one process as by another. It is the Lord working upon minds and molding characters.
All are not led to the Lord in precisely the same way. Human beings are not to define, arbitrarily and narrowly, the characteristics of God’s working on minds. It may be given to one to gain spiritual strength and discernment easily, while another has to contend with “a thorn in the flesh,” and at times is ready, apparently, to step off the heights over the precipice. [2 Corinthians 12:7.] Yet who dare say that God does not still love and regard as His child the one so sorely beset and that His hand is not still stretched out to save?
The heavenly Shepherd knows where to find the lambs that are straying from the fold. He will gather them in. He calls upon ministers and lay members to arouse to their responsibility and unite with Him in this work. It is the special duty of Christians to seek and save the lost. Ministers and laymen are to encourage and help those who, sorely beset by temptation, know not which way to turn. My brother, through the grace of God you may become one who is able to bring back to the fold the wandering ones.
As in the days of Elijah God had seven thousand who had not bowed the knee to Baal, so today He has in the world many who are walking in all the light they have received. A whole firmament of chosen ones has He in reserve that will yet shine forth amidst the darkness. In places where there might be expected only briers and thorns, fruit-bearing trees of righteousness will appear. In such places as these there are those who will bloom more sweetly for the Lord than many who live in more favored places. All around them they will shed the fragrance of His grace as they bloom in most unpromising places.
Everywhere divine grace is to make itself felt. In places that are now spiritual deserts, there will be found those of whom the servants of the Lord can say, “Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]
God has souls to be saved in Africa. There are many to be sought out and kindly and tenderly labored for. At present, some may not be ready for the revelation of Christ’s grace; but the sons of mother Wessels—the subjects of so many prayers—may be saved if they will break up their present associations which have led them to disregard heavenly things. I was shown that the Wessels family, if they will, may be transformed into the Christlikeness. The Lord is waiting to be gracious to every member of this family. But in order for them to place themselves where He can work for them, they must leave their present surroundings, one going here and another there, placing themselves under influences more favorable to the growth of grace in the soul. Pride, folly, and extravagance can find no place in the kingdom of God.
My brother, while you are in Africa, do all that you can to change the order of things. By your prayers and your repentance toward God, show the transformation that His grace has wrought in your character. Heaven—eternal life—is worth more than ten thousand times ten thousand worlds. I thank God for you, my brother, that your eyes are being opened to discern the truth. “It is the Lord; let Him do what seemeth best unto Him.” [1 Samuel 3:18.] Walk carefully before God. Many eyes will be upon you. Your desire to accumulate means has been a snare to you, and this desire must be separated from your life.
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him; for whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? … No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous; nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruits of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” [Hebrews 12:1-7, 11.]
My brother, will you study and obey this instruction? Encourage faith in the truth for this time. Walk by faith, not by sight. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] You need at every step the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. This faith quickens and uplifts the soul by the nobility of holy practice. It is essential to every one who is running in the race for eternal life. It raises the soul into a purer, holier atmosphere, enabling its possessor to look forward to higher and still higher attainments and to discern clearly the dangers of a life of self-indulgence. Look by faith above yourself, and see in the work of God the way to gain the riches that can be laid up beside the throne of God. O the height and depth of the knowledge that may be obtained by unreserved consecration to God. The Lord will have the whole man, or none at all. His favor cannot be purchased with gifts of money. He calls for the gift of the whole heart.
It is not necessary for us to know the results of our course of action before we surrender wholly to God. We do not need to see the way or to know what the future will be. One thing we do know, because God has said it—the man that fears God and works righteousness will be accepted by Him. This is enough for us to know. Day by day walk before the Lord in humility and contrition. Your future destiny depends on your own course of action. “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] “If the Lord be God, then serve Him; but if Baal, then serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] Be one thing or the other. “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] Your present happiness and your future well-being depend on your own choice. If you choose to follow Jesus, you must obey the Word, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.]
Eternal life is for all who eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God—living by every word that proceeds out of His mouth. Those who do this will gain a clear understanding of what it means to be one with Christ.
“The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” [James 3:17, 18.] Two people may engage in the same acts of outward worship, yet the service of one, when weighed in the golden scales of the sanctuary, may be found wanting, while the service of the other may be accepted. Only the service that is performed in sincerity, with a humble, contrite heart, is acceptable to God.
My brother, neither you nor I can afford to do haphazard work. We must make Christ our Alpha and our Omega, the first, and last, and best in everything. He is ashamed of those who have no desire to follow Him. He prepares for them no mansion in the city of God. He will not accept them as His. They can never be acknowledged as heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ to the immortal inheritance.
No sacrifice is too great to make for the truth, for Christ, for heaven. Not a farthing of the money that we handle is our own. All is the Lord’s, entrusted to us to test us, to see if we will make a right use of the Lord’s goods. He who in this life does not prove true and faithful will have no second trial. Those who choose the world will perish with the world. A cloud of heavenly witnesses is watching the conflict between good and evil. Those who live for their own pleasure must one day answer to the Judge of all the earth for their misspent privileges and neglected opportunities. They will lose an eternity of bliss and the riches of everlasting life. God forbid that any should delay until it is too late, and should at last have to say, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and I am not saved.” [Jeremiah 8:20.]
May God help you, John, to help others. “Lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord; looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” [Hebrews 12:12-15.] Walk straight forward in the path of duty. Show those with whom you associate that you will not turn from your integrity to gain advantage for yourself. Fix your mind on the things of heaven, saying, I must see the King in His beauty. He gave His life for me, and I will not, to please any human being, exert my influence against the truth of Christ.
All are being tested and tried. God will heal the spiritual infirmities of all who sincerely strive to obey Him, at any cost to themselves. The Lord calls upon His people to live the life of Christ. This all must do who enter the gates of the city of God. No one can be a Christian, and at the same time live in conformity to the world. Will you remember, John, that eternal life begins in this world? Our course of action is to be in accordance with the divine similitude. We are to have in us Christ’s life, which is eternal life.
I leave these lines with you. We shall pray for you. Our word to you is, Courage in the Lord. Whatever course your brothers may take, place your feet in the footprints of Christ. Follow the Saviour in the path of self-denial, lifting the cross and bearing it after Him; and thus show your brothers a better and more desirable way than the way of the world.
May the Lord bless you, my brother. May He give you strength to walk in the path of duty, and may He fill your heart with love and faith and hope and courage.
Lt 39a, 1903
Haskell, S. N.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
November 26, 1903
Elder S. N. Haskell
My dear Brother in Christ Jesus,—
I have received your letter and will say to you, Let us not look on the dark side of things. The Lord knows all. Let us prove His faithfulness by obeying the commission that He gave to His disciples, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
I feel urged to write to you, Elder Haskell, to attend the meeting of the Southern Union Conference to be held at Nashville. You should stand by the side of Elder Butler and bear a plain, decided testimony.
The Lord has instructed me that some will seek to displace the aged servants of God who have been with this message from its beginning. Those who are inclined to set Brother Butler to one side are not in harmony with the mind of the Lord. God has brought him forth from seclusion, as one chosen to fill an appointed place. He is sound in the faith. The Lord is with him. And if he will be careful not to work too hard, he can nobly fill his place as a man chosen of God to bear important responsibilities in His work. Let no one try to displace Elder Butler, for the Lord has given him his appointment.
I am more pleased than I know how to express that you two aged soldiers of the cross, men of gray hairs, are still left to us and are able to lift up your voices in the proclamation of solid Bible truth. You have vital truths to present to the people.
I am instructed to say to you and to Elder Butler, Do not preach too long at a time. Let your sermons be short and frequent. Be ready to speak whenever any crisis arises. Fanciful doctrines will be presented by some as food for the flock of God. I am instructed to warn our people to be on their guard against false teaching.
I have recently written a letter to Elder Butler, but it is mislaid, so I will send these few words to you and ask you to read them to him. We remember you both by name in our prayers. We also pray for Edson who is in great danger of carrying too many burdens.
With much love to yourself and wife
Lt 40, 1903
Braucht, F. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 22, 1903
Dear brother Braucht,—
I have wished so much that I might have an opportunity to talk with you. Could I see you, I should say to you what I have been saying to you recently in the visions of the night. You were apparently undecided as to what you would do in the future. I asked, “Why are you perplexed?” You replied, “I am perplexed in regard to what is the best course for me to pursue.” Then One who has authority stepped up to you and said: “You are not your own. You have been bought with a price. Your time, your talents, every jot of your influence is the Lord’s. You are His servant. Your part is to do His bidding and learn daily of Him. You are not to set up in business for yourself. This is not the Lord’s plan. You are not to unite with unbelievers in medical work. Neither is this the Lord’s plan. His word to you is: ‘Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.’” [2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1.]
You are to receive the grace of Christ, the great Medical Missionary. His divine wisdom will be given to you if you will refuse to yield to the inclination to link up with the world. God desires you to place yourself where you can work in connection with other physicians. You and the one with whom you are associated may not be of the same temperament. It is better if you are not. That which one needs the other may supply[, i]f each will learn to wear the yoke of Christ. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
My brother, choose to obey Christ. In His meekness and lowliness receive His counsel. Stand shoulder to shoulder with your brethren, and this will encourage them to stand shoulder to shoulder with you. Hide self in Christ, and the Saviour will be to you a present help in every time of need.
God’s people have many lessons to learn. They will have perfect peace if they will keep the mind stayed on Him who is too wise to err and too good to do them harm. They are to catch the reflection of the smile of God and reflect it to others. They are to see how much sunshine they can bring into the lives of those around them. They are to keep near to Christ, so close that they sit together with Him as His little children, in sweet, sacred unity. They are never to forget that as they receive the affection and love of God, they are under the most solemn obligation to impart it to others. Thus they may exert an influence of rejoicing, which blesses all who come within its reach, irradiating their pathway.
This is where the people of God make so many mistakes. They do not express thankfulness for the great gift of God’s love and grace. Selfishness must be expelled from the soul. The heart must be purified from all envy, all evil surmising. Believers must constantly receive and impart the love of God. Then unbelievers will say of them, “They have been with Jesus, and have learned of Him. They are living in intimate companionship with Christ, who is love.” [See Acts 4:13.] The world has keenness of perception, and will take knowledge to some purpose of those who sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. The character of God’s human agencies must be a transcript of the character of their Saviour.
Many things were said—things that made my heart burn within me. I awoke praising God.
I write this to you, my dear brother, in the hope of helping you. You are in an unsettled state of mind and are tempted to do a strange work, which God has not appointed you to do. None of us are to strike out alone; we are to link up with our brethren and pull together, and God will give us influence and self-control. We are to draw near to God, that He may draw near to us.
No one can gain completeness in Christ, who, having the means of gaining a deeper experience in the things of God, fails to realize that every ray of heavenly light, every jot of blessing, is given to him to give to all who come within the sphere of his influence. If we are qualifying ourselves to live in heaven, we are daily drawing nearer and nearer to our Redeemer. We are to represent Christ in every phase of character.
What is the Bible test of character? “If a man love Me, he will keep My words; and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.” [John 14:23.] No one need perish in spiritual blindness. A plain “Thus saith the Lord” has been given for the guidance of all.
My brother, I send these words to you in the love of Christ, and I pray that you will act upon them.
Lt 41, 1903
Braucht, F. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 24, 1903
Dr. F. E. Braucht
My dear Brother,—
There is need for every physician closely and critically to examine himself. What is his religious experience? Does he allow self to rule? Does he make his own wishes and desires supreme? Does he keep the glory of God ever before him? Is he learning daily of Jesus? If this is your experience, those with whom you are connected will be led nearer to the Saviour. Why?—Because you are constantly beholding Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You will not need to try to shine. You will not be able to help shining. As you behold Jesus, His brightness comes into your life. In your words there is elevated thought and sanctified intelligence. Those with whom you associate take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus and have learned of Him, for you reflect His image. You have esteemed His words more than your necessary food. You have sat at His feet and learned of Him. Your words and works testify to your union with Christ.
I wish to say that there is danger of our physicians’ taking themselves into their own hands, thinking that they understand best what they should do. They think that those who offer them counsel do not understand their capabilities or appreciate their value. This is the stumbling stone over which some, at least, have fallen. You are not beyond the temptation of thinking that you can do better work alone than when linked up with your brethren. The very ones who think this are the ones who need the companionship and help of a fellow laborer.
My brother, the Lord needs your help in His work. Will you not be His helping hand? It would be a serious mistake for you to accept a worldly position, where it would not be possible for you to do the medical missionary work that God desires you to do. Do not make this mistake. Place yourself under the guidance of the greatest Medical Missionary the world has ever known. Under His direction you will gain increased capabilities for doing His work.
The Lord’s people are to testify, by Christlike lives, that God has a people on the earth who represent the pure and holy company that will meet around the throne of God when the redeemed are gathered into the holy city. Those who in this earth love and obey God will be accounted true and pure and loyal, worthy to dwell with Him in the heavenly courts.
Will our people awake to their individual accountability? Will they realize that as those who have a knowledge of present truth their work is clearly defined? We are to be laborers together with God. We are to show plainly that we are on the Lord’s side, fully identifying ourselves as believers in the principles that called us out from the world to take our stand on the platform of eternal truth. We are to proclaim the message for these last days—the message that the coming of the Lord is near. Let every one resolve to be like Jesus. Let us wait and watch for the coming of our Lord in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Christ is the Head of His church. He alone is to be exalted and honored. When His ambassadors fail to honor Him by refusing to give evidence that they are God’s peculiar people, they are going backward and not forward.
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] Soon this will come to pass; for we are near the close of this earth’s history. “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; which in time past were not a people, but now are the people of God; which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” [1 Peter 2:9-12.]
I pray that the people of God may not cast aside the peculiarities of their faith. Christ is glorified by a life of constant, well-defined faith. Paul declares, “The life which I now live, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” [Galatians 2:20.] Christ is to be glorified by the living, working faith of His people. The just shall live by faith.
Christ has not left His people to stumble along in darkness. He has marked out the way before them. He says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] It is along the path of self-denial, the royal highway cast up by the Redeemer, that God’s people are to travel.
My brother, bow in submission before Him who has brought life and immortality to light. Let your will and the will of Christ be one. Talk this, pray this, live this. God’s word to us is, “Go forward,” and this word we are to obey, though we shall meet with obstacles seemingly as insurmountable as the Red Sea. [Exodus 14:15.] Let us trust the Lord God of heaven to open the way before His people. “Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him, and He will bring it to pass.” [Psalm 37:5.] This patience of the soul is the rest of faith. The Lord will bless His tried, faithful people. He will not leave them to become confused.
In the last great day every word, every act, will be subjected to the crucial test of the Judge of all the earth. The new covenant that God has made with His elect will not cover one trace of evil. God says, “Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.” [Ezekiel 36:25-27.] The beginning of all true reformation is the inward cleansing of the Holy Spirit. It is this regeneration that constitutes men and women children of God. Thus they are prepared to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Those whose souls are lifted up unto vanity dishonor the name of Jesus. They are not transformed in character, and therefore they are not prepared to show what it means to be a medical missionary working in connection with Christ.
The Lord calls for heartfelt repentance from those who claim to be His people. Self-indulgence is to find no place in their lives. The church of God is to be jealously guarded from every phase of dishonesty, every taint of corruption. The love of Christ is directly opposed to all avarice, all pride, all pretense. The Lord calls for humble, contrite hearts. He will work by His Holy Spirit upon all who will be worked, all who love Him and keep His commandments. And they will make the presence and power of God so manifestly to appear that the enemies of the truth will be compelled to say that God and His angels are indeed the friends and helpers of those who serve Him.
Schism and division are not the fruits of righteousness; they are of the wicked one. The great hindrance to our advancement at this time is the selfishness that prevents believers from having true fellowship with one another. The last prayer that Christ offered for His disciples before His trial was that they might be one in Him. Satan is determined that this oneness shall not be; for it is the strongest witness that can be borne that God did indeed send His Son to reconcile the world to heaven. But the union for which Christ prayed must exist among God’s people before there can be in the church here below the enlargement and power that God longs to see.
Lt 42, 1903
Friend
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 10, 1903
Dear Friend,—
I am sending you by mail a copy of my new book, Education. Please accept it as a token of friendship. I pray that the Lord will make this book a blessing to the many Christian homes where true education is a subject of living interest.
My courage and hope are in the Lord God of Israel. I have written much of late regarding the duty of the church to carry the gospel to all the world. I rejoice that the coming of the Lord is near at hand.
Wishing you joy and peace, and praying that you may have power to walk with the Lord, I am,
Yours in the Master’s service.
Lt 43, 1903
Hall, L. M.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 6, 1903
Dear Sister Hall,—
I have received your letter, and I feel greatly relieved. When we did not hear from you as soon as we thought we ought to, we were very anxious, fearing that you might have taken cold and were unwilling to let me know in regard to your situation. We have prayed constantly for you. Your letter has relieved me of a great burden of anxiety. I thank the Lord for His goodness. We hope that you will not be exposed on your journey to Battle Creek. We pray that the Lord will graciously care for you and that your health will greatly improve. I hope that you will be successful in disposing of your place. Then come to us; for we miss you very much.
I am hoping that you will be able to settle up your business in time to attend the Conference.
Last night Brother Irwin and Sister E. M. Graham arrived from Australia. Brother Irwin is staying at Willie’s. Miss Graham makes her home with us. She is occupying your room.
Sara and Maggie will go with me to Conference. Clarence will go to act as one of the reporters for the Conference. We shall miss his help.
For the last two or three days I have been better in health than for some time past. Soon after you left there came to me from Attorney Green a leaflet containing the statement that Mrs. White is getting rich, that among our people there is great dissatisfaction as to how her money is obtained, and that a thorough investigation is to be made of her business. The accusations contained in this leaflet were cruel and unjust. As I read them, I felt a shock go over me. I came near falling to the floor. Ever since, I have been unable to write or to have matters of perplexity requiring thought brought before me. When Clarence found out how I was feeling, he brought me some pamphlets containing a vindication of Elder and Mrs. White, proving their integrity and asking for one instance of where they had dealt unfairly. Reading these pamphlets relieved my mind somewhat; but for two weeks, yea, three weeks, I have been unable to exercise my mind, for when I did, my nose would bleed. I was afraid that I would not be able to overcome the terrible feeling in my brain. Reading letters that required thought would immediately bring a rush of blood to the head, making my brain feel like a seething furnace; and nosebleed would follow.
If I keep free from every perplexity, I feel nothing of these sensations. But I have been obliged to stop my writing almost entirely.
After the camp-meeting in Fresno, I was as a cart pressed beneath sheaves. At the time of the last council held in Battle Creek, there came upon me such an overwhelming sense of the condition of things that for eight weeks I did not sleep past twelve o’clock.
I worked constantly—writing out matters that must be brought before the brethren. I had just reached the place where I thought that perhaps I should be able to have rest of mind when the cruel communication from Attorney Green came.
I do not claim as my own one bit of the property that I own. I owe twenty thousand dollars, which I have borrowed to invest in the Lord’s work. Of late years, comparatively few of my books have been sold in the United States. I must have money for running expenses, and I must pay my workers. The money that otherwise I should have to pay for rent, I now pay as interest on the money which I borrowed to secure this home. I am ready to let my place go as soon as the Lord signifies that this is His will and that my work here is done.
The lack of means does not worry me; for the Lord is my witness that His work has ever been dearer to me than my life.
I have hoped that my books would sell, not that I might be rich, but that the solemn, sacred truths which the Lord has entrusted to me might be given to the people. I shall be so grateful if my books can be circulated as the Lord desires them to be.
I have given and am still giving to the work all the royalties on my translated books sold in foreign countries. This means an annual offering of hundreds of dollars.
While in Australia I invested much money in building meeting houses and in establishing the Avondale school. In every possible way I helped to advance the work. At one time when we were in a great strait for means, fourteen hundred dollars came to me for some property sold in America. Not one dollar of this money did I use for myself. Some of it I invested in meeting houses, and some of it I gave for the purchase of a tent for camp-meeting work. The rest of it went into the Avondale Health Retreat.
This is the way in which Sister White is getting rich.
I praise the Lord that I am now somewhat relieved of the burden that came upon me when I first read the cruel, unjust charges in the pamphlet sent me. Yesterday for the first time Willie ventured to read to me some letters from Elder Daniells and Brother E. R. Palmer and to tell me something of his experience while in the South. I am praying most earnestly that Christ, the great Physician, will heal my afflicted head and eyes and strengthen me to write out the instruction He has given me on Bible subjects. I am asking Him to preserve my eyesight.
Sometimes I think that perhaps it is time that I felt released from constant writing. I have been trying to write on the life of Solomon. But I have been kept from this work by the consideration of matters pertaining to the Southern field, which have been exceedingly painful to me. The destruction of the Battle Creek Sanitarium and the Review and Herald office stand out before me as lessons too plain and forcible to be misunderstood or dismissed from my mind. I try to present before my brethren the instruction that the Lord gives me concerning these things, but it seems that they will not receive this instruction. When they begin the work of reformation at the heart, out of which are the issues of life, they will begin aright, and the work will be lasting. But I fear that a sense of their real spiritual condition will not come to them till it is too late for them to make the preparation that all must make who are received into the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those who love His appearing.
O that the Holy Spirit would take hold upon the hearts of the men in responsible positions in the work of God—those who for so long have been under the deception of the enemy. O that they could see themselves as God sees them. Then there would go forth from unfeigned lips the entreaty, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” [Psalm 51:10.] And quickly would come the response, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.]
When will men learn that the Lord, He is God, that He is a personal God, and that He alone is to rule the conscience? O that those in positions of trust would realize that they are but weak, fallible beings. All who would enter the gates of the celestial city must be born again. In no other way can they be saved. The first thing to be done is to make the heart right with God. The work must be genuine. To make believe in this matter is like building on the sand.
There is a fearful deception upon minds. But how little men realize their peril. As they are now, they are without God and without hope. They are building on sliding sand, and the storm is coming to beat upon their house and sweep it away. It is time for those whom God has been calling and warning for years to begin to ask themselves how they stand before God. How terrible it is to think of a soul lost, eternally lost, when Christ has purchased human beings with His life-blood, and says to them: “Ye are not your own. I gave My life that you should not perish, but have a life that measures with the life of God.”
In the night season I am repeating to certain ones the words that Christ spoke as He wept over the impenitence of Jerusalem, “If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day the things which belong unto thy peace!” When the Saviour had spoken these words, He paused. The glorious destiny that might have blessed Jerusalem had she accepted her Redeemer rose before Him. But the bright picture faded from His sight. He realized that she was under the Roman yoke, bearing the frown of God, doomed to His retributive judgement; and He took up the broken thread of His lamentation: “But now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:42.] I cannot but feel intensely as I think that of some, unless they change, these words must at last be spoken. This is why I do not wish to attend the General Conference. Ever since I came to America I have been carrying a heavy load, and it seems almost impossible to gird myself for another effort, when my brethren fall so far short of what they ought to be.
But I dare not decide not to attend the Conference. If the Lord impresses me that I must go, I shall go, even though I can but fear the result on my physical strength. It seems that the termination of one duty is but the signal for the beginning of another.
Could I arouse our people to Christian effort, could I lead them to engage in medical missionary work with holy zeal and divine perseverance, not in a few places, but in every place, putting forth personal effort for those out of the fold, how grateful I should be! This is true missionary work. In some places it is attended with little success, apparently; but again, the Lord opens the way, and signal success attends the effort. Words are spoken which are as nails fastened in a sure place. Angels from heaven co-operate with human instrumentalities, and sinners are won to the Saviour. I look at Washington, D.C. and wonder that more has not been done by our people to proclaim the third angel’s message in this important city, the capital of the nation. Why has not a sanitarium been established there? Such an institution would have a powerful influence on the people of the city. In New York, Detroit, and many other large cities, little has been done. The cities of the South, though kept before our people in the testimonies of God’s Spirit, have been neglected. While I would not stay the hand that is stretched out to labor in far-off countries, I would have our people understand that there is a work to be done in the home field. God has a controversy with the believers living in such places as Battle Creek. Why cannot they see that they have something to do for places close at hand? I warned them that God can scatter their forces.
We are not to become weary in well-doing. Why is not more zeal manifested in preparing the way of the Lord, establishing memorials for Him in prominent places by public and private efforts, gathering into the truth men and women from the highways and the byways. Where are the workers to enter new places? Battle Creek has been warned. Scarcely anything would move the people living there. In places that have not yet been worked, the third angel’s message is to be proclaimed. Earnest efforts are to be put forth to arouse the sleeping churches, that men and women may be led to step out in obedience to the truth and to give themselves unreservedly to the work of warning a doomed world.
We must learn the meaning of the destruction of two of our largest institutions. We cannot afford to look with indifference on these things. What lesson is God teaching us? Is He not trying to show us the need of closely examining ourselves, that we may see whether we be in the faith or not? Is He not trying to lead us to give more thought to the subject of the time in which we are living? The signs of the times fulfilling all around us show us that the end of all things is at hand. Intense earnestness should take possession of us. Our slumbering energies should be aroused by persevering effort. Consecrated workers should go forth into the field and move understandingly forward, clearing the King’s highway, obtaining victories in new places. Let the Lord’s workers labor in faith and trust. Some for whom they work will listen to the message and accept the truth. Let them do what God has commanded them to do. Proportionate to their faith will be their success. The Scriptures declare: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” [James 1:5-7.]
How strange it is that those who have had the light of truth for so many years have not carried the torch of truth into the dark places of the earth. The whole world is astir. The Lord calls upon His people to awake out of sleep. My brethren and sisters, stop criticizing others, but criticize severely your own words and motives. We have no time to spend in using the enemy’s methods. We are to hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. Envy, malice, hatred, unbelief, which have been growing into sturdy plants in the garden of the soul, are to be uprooted and cast out and their place supplied by love, patience, forbearance, kindness, benevolence, tenderheartedness, meekness.
The Result of Self-Denying Effort
Let not self-denial be so rare as it has been in the past among the people of God. The Lord will co-operate with every one who is truly in earnest. What may be accomplished by self-denying effort is shown by the result of the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons. In giving us this book, the Lord gave us a great blessing. I praise Him with heart and soul that He put it into my heart to give this book for the relief of the schools. I praise Him that our publishing houses acted so generous a part in the work of preparing the book for sale. And I praise Him that our people have put their hand so nobly to the work of its circulation. The Lord has greatly blessed them. In the effort to sell this book, they have learned by practical experience what they can do for the advancement of the work. And they have learned also how to speak to strangers about the truth. Through the lessons contained in this book, sinners have been warned, convicted, and converted.
While the men of the world are idolizing money, and making it their trust, the Lord in His providence has brought forth from His treasure house a precious treasure and has placed it within the reach of all. He has given His people an opportunity to take to their friends and neighbors and to strangers a book containing the precious lessons of Christ. As those who have never tried to sell books have thought of going out with this book, a dread has come into their hearts. But the Lord has led and guided them as His little children. He has taught old and young, men and women, how to give the light of truth to those who know it not.
And the purchasers have been blessed. Their hearts have been softened as they have listened to the story of the self-denying effort to free our schools from debt. By the sale of this book many sermons have been preached. Those in the highways as well as those in the hedges have been reached. As men and women of every age have gone forth to sell Object Lessons, and in simple words have told what they were trying to do, a deep impression has been left on minds. Hearts have been touched. Worldly, self-indulgent men and women have been convinced of their selfishness and have bought a copy of the book. Some have bought several copies, that they might give them to their friends.
How grateful we should be that the Lord devised this means of bringing hope and comfort to starving souls. He makes this book a leaf from the tree of life to those who turn to Him. Through it He will change the hearts of men and women living in worldliness and self-indulgence. As a result of the effort to sell it, some—yes, many, will be converted and brought to a knowledge of the truth. Many who might never have an opportunity to hear a discourse from the living preacher will be fed with the bread of life.
Christ’s command is, “Go out into the highways and hedges and compel them to come in, that My house may be full.” [Luke 14:23.] The effort to sell Object Lessons has taken to many the invitation to the feast that God has prepared.
The Lord put it into the heart of Brother Magan and Brother Sutherland to devise means for the circulation of Object Lessons. Thus much good has been and will be accomplished. The circulation of this book is the Lord’s missionary work, and it will make joyful the hearts of all who engage in it. To some the cross at first seemed heavy, but they found that in lifting it, it lifted them and brought peace and joy to their souls. Their testimony has been, “His yoke is easy, and His burden is light.” [See Matthew 11:30.] In willing, unselfish service they have found rest to their souls.
Christ has placed upon His church a sacred charge, the fulfilling of which calls for self-denial at every step. When those who believe in Him are seen lifting the cross and bearing it after Him in the path of self-denial, willingly doing all in their power to bring blessing to those for whom Christ died, witness will be borne to the power of Christianity, and in the hearts of many now unbelievers will spring up faith in Him who gave His life to save a guilty world from eternal ruin.
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Lt 44, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 9, 1903
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
I should have been very much pleased to meet you at Conference, but I learn that you are not coming; therefore I will write you a letter to go by this mail.
I understand that you are having at the Sanitarium some difficulty in regard to the diet question. I am very sorry for this, because I know that unless the workers can agree, their differences will be a source of constant temptation. You and Dr. Kress and his wife are to co-operate. Things would have come to a strange pass should either of you say, We cannot work together, because we do not see alike on the diet question. Be sure that you are heeding Christ’s prayer for unity. He says: “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word, that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me.” [John 17:16-21.]
Since the oneness of Christ’s followers is of such weighty consequence, be sure that you come to an agreement. By your unity you bear witness to the world that God has sent His Son to save sinners. Only the power of Christ’s grace could work the miracle of bringing into perfect harmony men of different dispositions and ideas. The truths of God’s Word, brought into the practical life, will enable believers to live together in complete unity.
It is well for Brother and Sister Burden and Brother and Sister Kress to have strong minds. Each is to maintain his individuality. Each is to preserve an individuality that will not be submerged in the individuality of another. No human being is to be the shadow of another human being. But God’s servants are to labor together in a unity that blends mind with mind. Do you think that this unity can exist among the workers in the Sanitarium unless you all take a judicious, sanctified position?
“The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one.” [Verse 22.] Are you willing to make sacrifices to answer this prayer? Or will you, because there is a difference of opinion regarding certain articles of food that one or the other thinks should or should not be set on the table, or regarding the hours for meals, will you say that you cannot work together? Is this Bible sanctification?
“I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [Verse 23.]
What a wonderful statement. The thought is almost too great for the mind to comprehend. But the promise is to be believed and acted upon by Christians, that Christ’s prayer may be answered.
The Saviour says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you.” This is the restraining of the human will, human appetite, human inclination. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The will is to be yielded to the will of Christ. As this is done, rest is found, and the testimony is borne, “Christ’s yoke is easy, and His burden is light.”
My brother, a firm will is a good thing when it is sanctified. But I know, from the light that the Lord has given me, that you and your wife need to yoke up with Christ and to learn that in some respects your ideas and plans and methods would be improved if modified.
The Sanitarium has been established that all classes may be reached by the truth. I ask you and Brother and Sister Kress to do all in your power to bring into the Sanitarium the unity for which Christ prayed. Reveal His love. Let the truth rule in the heart, and you will be one with Christ in God.
You say that you are dyspeptics. Is it not possible that your plan of eating may not be the best? I am instructed to say that you need to change in some things, else you will injure your digestive powers. I do not say what you shall or shall not eat. But if, while eating the things you choose, you have dyspepsia, I think you ought to make a decided change.
If you are convinced that your habits of eating are just as they should be, and that there is no possibility of your being able to make a change for the better, you could try perhaps [to] board by yourselves instead of in the institution. But if I were a dyspeptic, I should make changes in my diet until I knew for a certainty that I was eating the food that my stomach could best care for. A craving for certain things may need to be brought into subjection. Self is rebellious and must be strictly disciplined.
Be regular in your habits of eating, and be sure not to overburden the stomach by eating too many kinds of food at one time. Stop eating before you feel entirely satisfied. The stomach is the most abused organ of the whole body. It is often wearied by the effort to take care of food that should not be eaten at the same time. A disturbance is created by the kinds of food brought together. Soon there is an all-gone feeling, and many think that this is hunger. But it is not. The trouble is that the stomach has too much to do. Let it be given less to do, and it will recover its healthy tone. The simpler the food eaten, and the fewer the kinds, the easier is the stomach’s work.
The same rules of eating cannot be made for all. I make it a rule never to eat custards; for when I eat them, they always make a disturbance in my stomach. But there are those in my family who suffer no inconvenience from eating custards, and because I cannot eat them, I do not say that they ought not to eat them. We must each experiment and know for ourselves what is best for us to eat.
We may have to abstain from many things that others can eat without inconvenience.
The Education of Israel
The Lord chose Israel for His own people. When He brought them out of Egypt they were a people just set free from slavery. For four hundred years they had been bondmen under the discipline of force. Now, under the instruction of Christ, the One who had pledged Himself to redeem the world, they were to learn the philosophy of heaven. They were to become an educating power in the world. Through them God designed to make known the laws of His kingdom and His rules of government.
The Lord Jesus took this despised race out of the house of oppression and slavery to make them His own peculiar people. He took them away from the kingdoms of the world and for forty years led them in the wilderness to prepare them to be a representation of what His people should be. Through them He manifested His supreme authority. All other nations were afraid of them, because Jehovah was with them.
Their journey through the wilderness was to be to them a school of preparation, a training. They were to learn under the special supervision of Christ. Enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, He gave them instruction through Moses. By a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night He guided them. The record says: “Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.” [Nehemiah 9:12.] The ark containing the law of God led the way. The place of encampment was indicated by the descent of the pillar of fire. As long as the cloud rested on the tabernacle, the people remained in camp. When it lifted, they pursued their journey.
At Sinai God sought to impress Israel with the holiness of His character and requirements and the exceeding guilt of transgression. But the people were slow to learn the lesson. Accustomed as they had been in Egypt to material representations of the deity, and these of the most degrading nature, it was difficult for them to conceive of the existence or the character of the Unseen One. In pity for their weakness, God gave them a symbol of His presence. “Let them make me a sanctuary,” He said, “that I may dwell among them.” [Exodus 25:8.]
It was under His direction that the tabernacle was built. Great was the privilege and honor granted Israel in the preparation of the sanctuary; and great also was the responsibility. A structure of surpassing splendor, demanding for its construction the most costly material and the highest artistic skill, was to be erected in the wilderness by a people just escaped from slavery. It seemed a stupendous task. But He who had given the plan of the building stood pledged to co-operate with the builders.
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. … And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahismach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:1-3, 6.]
The education of the Israelites included all their habits of life. Everything that concerned their well-being was the subject of divine solicitude and came with the province of divine law. It was because the Lord desired to make them His representatives that He provided them with a special bill of fare. They were placed under careful restrictions in regard to their diet. The use of flesh food was almost entirely prohibited. The people were to be holy, and the Lord knew that the use of flesh meat would be a hindrance to their advancement in spiritual life. By a miracle of mercy He fed them with the bread of heaven. The food provided for them was of a nature to promote physical, mental, and moral strength; and though so many of them rebelled against the restriction of their diet and longed to return to the ways “when,” they said, “we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full” [Exodus 16:3], yet the wisdom of God’s choice for them was vindicated in a manner that they could not gainsay. Notwithstanding the hardships of their wilderness life, there was not a feeble one in all their tribes.
If the Israelites had been given the diet to which they had been accustomed while in Egypt, they would have exhibited the unmanageable spirit that the world is exhibiting today. In the diet of men and women in this age there are included many things that the Lord would not have permitted the children of Israel to eat. The human family as it is today is an illustration of what the children of Israel would have been if God had allowed them to eat the food and follow the habits and customs of the Egyptians.
Lessons for Us
The history of the wilderness life of Israel was chronicled for the benefit of the Israel of God till the close of time. The record of God’s dealing with the wanderers in all their marchings to and fro, in their exposure to hunger, thirst, and weariness, and in the striking manifestations of His power for their relief is fraught with warning and instruction for His people in this age. The varied experiences of the Hebrews was a school of preparation for their promised home in Canaan. God would have His people review in these days, with a humble heart and a teachable spirit, the trials through which ancient Israel passed, that they may be instructed in their preparation for the heavenly Canaan.
The record of the journeyings of Israel in the wilderness contains communications direct from heaven. These lessons are for us. Let us read and understand. There the divine laws are plainly stated. There are recorded sacred principles of morality, justice, reverence for God, respect for man made in the image of God.
The teachings of the representative men of Israel, who received their message directly from God, is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen. The instruction that they received we are to bring into our service for God today. The words were spoken by the same Christ who afterward came to the world to stand at the head of the race as a divine-human Saviour; and these words are as verily spoken to us as to them. They are given to help us to reach the standard of righteousness, to show us how to advance in conquest of the world.
In His Word God reveals what He can do for human beings. He molds and fashions after the divine similitude the characters of those who will wear His yoke. Through His grace they are made partakers of the divine nature and are thus enabled to overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. It is God who gives us power to overcome. Those who hear His voice and obey His commandments are enabled to form righteous characters. Those who disregard His expressed commands will form characters like the propensities that they indulge.
*****
On Which Side Shall We Stand?
In the world there are but two parties. One acknowledges as its head the prince of darkness, who caused the fall of our first parents. The other stands under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. The great movements of providence will bring out a people who are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Let us be sure under which banner we are standing, the banner of Satan or the banner of Christ. There is no middle ground. All in the world are standing on one side or the other.
There are those who, though professedly serving God, are witnessing against Him. To them the message to the Laodicean church is given. Christ says to them, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot.” [Revelation 3:15.] When the avenging angel shall pass through the land, Christ cannot say of them, “Touch them not. I have graven them upon the palms of My hands.” [See Isaiah 49:16.] No; of these halfhearted ones He says, “I will spew them out of my mouth. They are offensive to me.” [See Revelation 3:16.]
Halfhearted Christians are worse than infidels; for their deceptive words and noncommittal position lead many astray. The infidel shows his colors. The lukewarm Christian deceives both parties. He is neither a good worldling nor a good Christian. Satan uses him to do a work that no one else can do.
The line of demarcation between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not is ever to be kept clear and distinct. To be a Christian is to link up with Christ. To those in the service of God who stand half with believers and half with unbelievers, God says, “Stand aside. I cannot endorse your influence. Your course is misleading. The service of such as you has made many infidels. Stand aside.”
The time will come when all will show plainly on whose side they are standing. Moses and Aaron were often compelled to stand on the mount of advantage, in opposition to their brethren, decidedly asserting their loyalty. Today God’s servants are to show plainly where they are standing. Those who have any part to act in the education and training of the people of God, who are to act so important a part in the last work to be done for the world, must be faithful and decided and wholly in earnest. Those who stand wholly on the Lord’s side will be given the clear light of truth. There will be no uncertainty in the minds of others as to where they are standing. God will give strength to those who will stand fast in the liberty wherewith He makes free all who choose to stand with Him. He will give them His insignia and will give them freedom from all bondage. He will give them wisdom to use their capabilities for Him. He will help them to speak inspiring, uplifting words to those who need encouragement—words that will give believers and unbelievers confidence that they bear a message of importance from the throne of God. Such workers do not seek to exalt self, but to glorify the Lord of heaven. They have a deep experience in the things of God. The message that they bear means something to them and to those who hear.
It is for our present and eternal good to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Those who do this exert a strong influence on the side of right. But a halfhearted confession of faith will never rebuke unbelievers for their transgression of God’s law. God says: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] Our present and future welfare call for this entire separation from the world. Those who occupy positions of trust in our institutions are to give evidence that they are thoroughly converted. Those who do not give this evidence should not be allowed to mold the work of God. Those who are connected with this sacred work should never play a double game, exerting an influence on both sides.
God is not pleased with the position that His people are taking. Instead of gathering with Him, they are scattering abroad. They are using common fire instead of the sacred fire of the Lord’s kindling. God would save them from their sins. He would keep them from wasting their endowments and from the bitter remorse that will come to them if they do not make their life the success that God desires them to make it. There are those who, if they do not immediately retrace their steps, will at last bear the sad message: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” [Jeremiah 8:20.] In many things they are unwise and unfaithful. Their voices strengthen unbelief; and because they make strange paths for their feet, many are cast into uncertainty and confusion.
God calls upon His people to stand out upon the platform of eternal truth. To those who will put on the whole Christian armor, placing themselves unreservedly under God’s control, will be given strength to honor God day by day, to do His will and follow His way. Such ones will gain the mastery over the deceptions and insinuations of satanic agencies. They will discern the enemy’s falsities and enticements.
The worldly minded and unrighteous see in the truth only confusion and a mixed-up jumble of opposites. Christ has no beauty that they should desire Him. We shall be compelled to leave some in the entanglement that for years they have been preparing themselves. There are those that we must allow nothing to hinder us from reaching—the sorrowful and the brokenhearted. We have a message to bear to those who will be benefited. We cannot exhaust our powers upon those who will not hear. Many close their eyes in death who might have been spared had they been relieved of the burdens placed on them by the course of those who refused to come to Christ. I am obliged to say, “Some are joined to their idols; let them alone.” [See Hosea 4:17.] If they continue to feel that they are in no need of change, the change that they must have before they can be saved will never come to them.
I entreat our people not to allow the enemy to take advantage of them, so that believers will have no confidence in the work that since 1844 the Lord has been doing in our world. There are those claiming to believe the truth who are lost in the wilderness of unbelief, as was Baalam. Baalam was once acknowledged by God as a prophet of the Lord, but he proved unfaithful to his trust; and had the Lord permitted, he would have placed the people of God in a false light.
The true follower of Christ alone has the promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. The lowliest disciple of Christ will stand higher in the kingdom of God than the one who, in seeking to exalt himself, has left a wrong impression on the minds of unbelievers. The humbleminded one, who is willing to wear Christ’s yoke, will learn His meekness and lowliness and will keep in subordination the natural desire to be first. His character will be after the divine similitude, and God will exalt him above those who strove to exalt themselves.
Looking to Jesus for help and guidance, seeking to understand and to proclaim the message for this time—this is our work. God says to us: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sin.” [Isaiah 58:1.] “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people; but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.” [Isaiah 60:1-3.] We need to awake. Many have long been in a state of confusion and uncertainty. Christ came to seek and save that which was lost. When the spirit of the third angel’s message takes hold upon the hearts of Seventh-day Adventists, there will be a work done that God can approve.
In this time of peril we need men who serve God with all the powers of body, mind, and soul, and who will stand firm for the right. God will give such men power to be faithful sentinels over themselves. But He cannot trust His work to halfhearted, halfconverted men, men who cannot discern between righteousness and unrighteousness, truth and error, men who, though they have had great light and many opportunities, reason in a way that leads minds into confusion. The cause of God needs men and women who will stand on the platform of truth without wavering, and who will hold the banner of truth firmly aloft, so that no one can fail to see on which side they are standing. Their position is to be clearly defined. Their hearts are to be pure and holy, free from pretense or deception. Those who cannot give the plain “Shibboleth” [Judges 12:6], those who know not the meaning of the ministry of godliness, God cannot accept, whatever their profession may be.Lt 44, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 9, 1903
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
I should have been very much pleased to meet you at Conference, but I learn that you are not coming; therefore I will write you a letter to go by this mail.
I understand that you are having at the Sanitarium some difficulty in regard to the diet question. I am very sorry for this, because I know that unless the workers can agree, their differences will be a source of constant temptation. You and Dr. Kress and his wife are to co-operate. Things would have come to a strange pass should either of you say, We cannot work together, because we do not see alike on the diet question. Be sure that you are heeding Christ’s prayer for unity. He says: “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word, that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me.” [John 17:16-21.]
Since the oneness of Christ’s followers is of such weighty consequence, be sure that you come to an agreement. By your unity you bear witness to the world that God has sent His Son to save sinners. Only the power of Christ’s grace could work the miracle of bringing into perfect harmony men of different dispositions and ideas. The truths of God’s Word, brought into the practical life, will enable believers to live together in complete unity.
It is well for Brother and Sister Burden and Brother and Sister Kress to have strong minds. Each is to maintain his individuality. Each is to preserve an individuality that will not be submerged in the individuality of another. No human being is to be the shadow of another human being. But God’s servants are to labor together in a unity that blends mind with mind. Do you think that this unity can exist among the workers in the Sanitarium unless you all take a judicious, sanctified position?
“The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one.” [Verse 22.] Are you willing to make sacrifices to answer this prayer? Or will you, because there is a difference of opinion regarding certain articles of food that one or the other thinks should or should not be set on the table, or regarding the hours for meals, will you say that you cannot work together? Is this Bible sanctification?
“I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [Verse 23.]
What a wonderful statement. The thought is almost too great for the mind to comprehend. But the promise is to be believed and acted upon by Christians, that Christ’s prayer may be answered.
The Saviour says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you.” This is the restraining of the human will, human appetite, human inclination. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The will is to be yielded to the will of Christ. As this is done, rest is found, and the testimony is borne, “Christ’s yoke is easy, and His burden is light.”
My brother, a firm will is a good thing when it is sanctified. But I know, from the light that the Lord has given me, that you and your wife need to yoke up with Christ and to learn that in some respects your ideas and plans and methods would be improved if modified.
The Sanitarium has been established that all classes may be reached by the truth. I ask you and Brother and Sister Kress to do all in your power to bring into the Sanitarium the unity for which Christ prayed. Reveal His love. Let the truth rule in the heart, and you will be one with Christ in God.
You say that you are dyspeptics. Is it not possible that your plan of eating may not be the best? I am instructed to say that you need to change in some things, else you will injure your digestive powers. I do not say what you shall or shall not eat. But if, while eating the things you choose, you have dyspepsia, I think you ought to make a decided change.
If you are convinced that your habits of eating are just as they should be, and that there is no possibility of your being able to make a change for the better, you could try perhaps [to] board by yourselves instead of in the institution. But if I were a dyspeptic, I should make changes in my diet until I knew for a certainty that I was eating the food that my stomach could best care for. A craving for certain things may need to be brought into subjection. Self is rebellious and must be strictly disciplined.
Be regular in your habits of eating, and be sure not to overburden the stomach by eating too many kinds of food at one time. Stop eating before you feel entirely satisfied. The stomach is the most abused organ of the whole body. It is often wearied by the effort to take care of food that should not be eaten at the same time. A disturbance is created by the kinds of food brought together. Soon there is an all-gone feeling, and many think that this is hunger. But it is not. The trouble is that the stomach has too much to do. Let it be given less to do, and it will recover its healthy tone. The simpler the food eaten, and the fewer the kinds, the easier is the stomach’s work.
The same rules of eating cannot be made for all. I make it a rule never to eat custards; for when I eat them, they always make a disturbance in my stomach. But there are those in my family who suffer no inconvenience from eating custards, and because I cannot eat them, I do not say that they ought not to eat them. We must each experiment and know for ourselves what is best for us to eat.
We may have to abstain from many things that others can eat without inconvenience.
The Education of Israel
The Lord chose Israel for His own people. When He brought them out of Egypt they were a people just set free from slavery. For four hundred years they had been bondmen under the discipline of force. Now, under the instruction of Christ, the One who had pledged Himself to redeem the world, they were to learn the philosophy of heaven. They were to become an educating power in the world. Through them God designed to make known the laws of His kingdom and His rules of government.
The Lord Jesus took this despised race out of the house of oppression and slavery to make them His own peculiar people. He took them away from the kingdoms of the world and for forty years led them in the wilderness to prepare them to be a representation of what His people should be. Through them He manifested His supreme authority. All other nations were afraid of them, because Jehovah was with them.
Their journey through the wilderness was to be to them a school of preparation, a training. They were to learn under the special supervision of Christ. Enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, He gave them instruction through Moses. By a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night He guided them. The record says: “Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.” [Nehemiah 9:12.] The ark containing the law of God led the way. The place of encampment was indicated by the descent of the pillar of fire. As long as the cloud rested on the tabernacle, the people remained in camp. When it lifted, they pursued their journey.
At Sinai God sought to impress Israel with the holiness of His character and requirements and the exceeding guilt of transgression. But the people were slow to learn the lesson. Accustomed as they had been in Egypt to material representations of the deity, and these of the most degrading nature, it was difficult for them to conceive of the existence or the character of the Unseen One. In pity for their weakness, God gave them a symbol of His presence. “Let them make me a sanctuary,” He said, “that I may dwell among them.” [Exodus 25:8.]
It was under His direction that the tabernacle was built. Great was the privilege and honor granted Israel in the preparation of the sanctuary; and great also was the responsibility. A structure of surpassing splendor, demanding for its construction the most costly material and the highest artistic skill, was to be erected in the wilderness by a people just escaped from slavery. It seemed a stupendous task. But He who had given the plan of the building stood pledged to co-operate with the builders.
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. … And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahismach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:1-3, 6.]
The education of the Israelites included all their habits of life. Everything that concerned their well-being was the subject of divine solicitude and came with the province of divine law. It was because the Lord desired to make them His representatives that He provided them with a special bill of fare. They were placed under careful restrictions in regard to their diet. The use of flesh food was almost entirely prohibited. The people were to be holy, and the Lord knew that the use of flesh meat would be a hindrance to their advancement in spiritual life. By a miracle of mercy He fed them with the bread of heaven. The food provided for them was of a nature to promote physical, mental, and moral strength; and though so many of them rebelled against the restriction of their diet and longed to return to the ways “when,” they said, “we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full” [Exodus 16:3], yet the wisdom of God’s choice for them was vindicated in a manner that they could not gainsay. Notwithstanding the hardships of their wilderness life, there was not a feeble one in all their tribes.
If the Israelites had been given the diet to which they had been accustomed while in Egypt, they would have exhibited the unmanageable spirit that the world is exhibiting today. In the diet of men and women in this age there are included many things that the Lord would not have permitted the children of Israel to eat. The human family as it is today is an illustration of what the children of Israel would have been if God had allowed them to eat the food and follow the habits and customs of the Egyptians.
Lessons for Us
The history of the wilderness life of Israel was chronicled for the benefit of the Israel of God till the close of time. The record of God’s dealing with the wanderers in all their marchings to and fro, in their exposure to hunger, thirst, and weariness, and in the striking manifestations of His power for their relief is fraught with warning and instruction for His people in this age. The varied experiences of the Hebrews was a school of preparation for their promised home in Canaan. God would have His people review in these days, with a humble heart and a teachable spirit, the trials through which ancient Israel passed, that they may be instructed in their preparation for the heavenly Canaan.
The record of the journeyings of Israel in the wilderness contains communications direct from heaven. These lessons are for us. Let us read and understand. There the divine laws are plainly stated. There are recorded sacred principles of morality, justice, reverence for God, respect for man made in the image of God.
The teachings of the representative men of Israel, who received their message directly from God, is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen. The instruction that they received we are to bring into our service for God today. The words were spoken by the same Christ who afterward came to the world to stand at the head of the race as a divine-human Saviour; and these words are as verily spoken to us as to them. They are given to help us to reach the standard of righteousness, to show us how to advance in conquest of the world.
In His Word God reveals what He can do for human beings. He molds and fashions after the divine similitude the characters of those who will wear His yoke. Through His grace they are made partakers of the divine nature and are thus enabled to overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. It is God who gives us power to overcome. Those who hear His voice and obey His commandments are enabled to form righteous characters. Those who disregard His expressed commands will form characters like the propensities that they indulge.
*****
On Which Side Shall We Stand?
In the world there are but two parties. One acknowledges as its head the prince of darkness, who caused the fall of our first parents. The other stands under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. The great movements of providence will bring out a people who are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Let us be sure under which banner we are standing, the banner of Satan or the banner of Christ. There is no middle ground. All in the world are standing on one side or the other.
There are those who, though professedly serving God, are witnessing against Him. To them the message to the Laodicean church is given. Christ says to them, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot.” [Revelation 3:15.] When the avenging angel shall pass through the land, Christ cannot say of them, “Touch them not. I have graven them upon the palms of My hands.” [See Isaiah 49:16.] No; of these halfhearted ones He says, “I will spew them out of my mouth. They are offensive to me.” [See Revelation 3:16.]
Halfhearted Christians are worse than infidels; for their deceptive words and noncommittal position lead many astray. The infidel shows his colors. The lukewarm Christian deceives both parties. He is neither a good worldling nor a good Christian. Satan uses him to do a work that no one else can do.
The line of demarcation between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not is ever to be kept clear and distinct. To be a Christian is to link up with Christ. To those in the service of God who stand half with believers and half with unbelievers, God says, “Stand aside. I cannot endorse your influence. Your course is misleading. The service of such as you has made many infidels. Stand aside.”
The time will come when all will show plainly on whose side they are standing. Moses and Aaron were often compelled to stand on the mount of advantage, in opposition to their brethren, decidedly asserting their loyalty. Today God’s servants are to show plainly where they are standing. Those who have any part to act in the education and training of the people of God, who are to act so important a part in the last work to be done for the world, must be faithful and decided and wholly in earnest. Those who stand wholly on the Lord’s side will be given the clear light of truth. There will be no uncertainty in the minds of others as to where they are standing. God will give strength to those who will stand fast in the liberty wherewith He makes free all who choose to stand with Him. He will give them His insignia and will give them freedom from all bondage. He will give them wisdom to use their capabilities for Him. He will help them to speak inspiring, uplifting words to those who need encouragement—words that will give believers and unbelievers confidence that they bear a message of importance from the throne of God. Such workers do not seek to exalt self, but to glorify the Lord of heaven. They have a deep experience in the things of God. The message that they bear means something to them and to those who hear.
It is for our present and eternal good to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Those who do this exert a strong influence on the side of right. But a halfhearted confession of faith will never rebuke unbelievers for their transgression of God’s law. God says: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] Our present and future welfare call for this entire separation from the world. Those who occupy positions of trust in our institutions are to give evidence that they are thoroughly converted. Those who do not give this evidence should not be allowed to mold the work of God. Those who are connected with this sacred work should never play a double game, exerting an influence on both sides.
God is not pleased with the position that His people are taking. Instead of gathering with Him, they are scattering abroad. They are using common fire instead of the sacred fire of the Lord’s kindling. God would save them from their sins. He would keep them from wasting their endowments and from the bitter remorse that will come to them if they do not make their life the success that God desires them to make it. There are those who, if they do not immediately retrace their steps, will at last bear the sad message: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” [Jeremiah 8:20.] In many things they are unwise and unfaithful. Their voices strengthen unbelief; and because they make strange paths for their feet, many are cast into uncertainty and confusion.
God calls upon His people to stand out upon the platform of eternal truth. To those who will put on the whole Christian armor, placing themselves unreservedly under God’s control, will be given strength to honor God day by day, to do His will and follow His way. Such ones will gain the mastery over the deceptions and insinuations of satanic agencies. They will discern the enemy’s falsities and enticements.
The worldly minded and unrighteous see in the truth only confusion and a mixed-up jumble of opposites. Christ has no beauty that they should desire Him. We shall be compelled to leave some in the entanglement that for years they have been preparing themselves. There are those that we must allow nothing to hinder us from reaching—the sorrowful and the brokenhearted. We have a message to bear to those who will be benefited. We cannot exhaust our powers upon those who will not hear. Many close their eyes in death who might have been spared had they been relieved of the burdens placed on them by the course of those who refused to come to Christ. I am obliged to say, “Some are joined to their idols; let them alone.” [See Hosea 4:17.] If they continue to feel that they are in no need of change, the change that they must have before they can be saved will never come to them.
I entreat our people not to allow the enemy to take advantage of them, so that believers will have no confidence in the work that since 1844 the Lord has been doing in our world. There are those claiming to believe the truth who are lost in the wilderness of unbelief, as was Baalam. Baalam was once acknowledged by God as a prophet of the Lord, but he proved unfaithful to his trust; and had the Lord permitted, he would have placed the people of God in a false light.
The true follower of Christ alone has the promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. The lowliest disciple of Christ will stand higher in the kingdom of God than the one who, in seeking to exalt himself, has left a wrong impression on the minds of unbelievers. The humbleminded one, who is willing to wear Christ’s yoke, will learn His meekness and lowliness and will keep in subordination the natural desire to be first. His character will be after the divine similitude, and God will exalt him above those who strove to exalt themselves.
Looking to Jesus for help and guidance, seeking to understand and to proclaim the message for this time—this is our work. God says to us: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sin.” [Isaiah 58:1.] “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people; but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.” [Isaiah 60:1-3.] We need to awake. Many have long been in a state of confusion and uncertainty. Christ came to seek and save that which was lost. When the spirit of the third angel’s message takes hold upon the hearts of Seventh-day Adventists, there will be a work done that God can approve.
In this time of peril we need men who serve God with all the powers of body, mind, and soul, and who will stand firm for the right. God will give such men power to be faithful sentinels over themselves. But He cannot trust His work to halfhearted, halfconverted men, men who cannot discern between righteousness and unrighteousness, truth and error, men who, though they have had great light and many opportunities, reason in a way that leads minds into confusion. The cause of God needs men and women who will stand on the platform of truth without wavering, and who will hold the banner of truth firmly aloft, so that no one can fail to see on which side they are standing. Their position is to be clearly defined. Their hearts are to be pure and holy, free from pretense or deception. Those who cannot give the plain “Shibboleth” [Judges 12:6], those who know not the meaning of the ministry of godliness, God cannot accept, whatever their profession may be.
Lt 45, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 10, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have just written a letter to Brother and Sister Burden, a portion of which will be sent tomorrow. This letter to them is as much for yourselves as for them.
I have seen expressed in writing the idea that if you two families cannot be agreed upon some points in connection with the diet question, the only alternative is separation; for you believe that under such circumstances you could not work together. I felt sorry to see this statement. I understand the situation. God desires you to unite in working for men and women of varied minds—for infidels, and for church members of all denominations. This is a field in which you both can work to advantage; but you fear that a difference of opinion on a few minor matters is sufficient cause for you to break up your co-operative influence. If you could know how sad this makes my heart, you would begin to make a somewhat closer investigation of yourselves than you have made.
There is nothing that bears comparison with the aim and purpose of Christian instrumentalities laboring for the salvation of souls. At the time of baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, the will, the purpose, the inclination is pledged that the whole life—body, mind, and soul—shall be dead to the world and to all selfishness and shall become subordinate to the will of God.
The apostle Paul says: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:1-3.]
Is Christ divided? Is a trifling difference of opinion of sufficient consequence to part asunder very friends, so that they cannot unite in doing a good work? Are individual opinions to be regarded as being so infallible as not to admit of any change? This is certainly spiritual weakness. Let each worker humble his heart before God. As no one’s opinion is always without a flaw, do not act as if you could not talk the matter over together and concede to one another.
Brother and Sister Kress, I wish to present for your consideration a few points that have been revealed to me since first there arose the difficulties connected with the question of discarding flesh meat from the tables of our medical institutions. Other questions demand even more serious consideration, but I will now write in regard to this one.
I have been plainly instructed by the Lord that flesh meat should not be placed before the patients in our sanitarium dining rooms. Light was given me that the patients could have flesh meat, if, after hearing the parlor lectures, they still urged us to give it to them; but that, in such cases, it must be eaten in their own rooms. All the helpers are to discard flesh meat. But, as stated before, if, after knowing that the flesh of animals cannot be placed on the dining-room tables, a few patients urge that they must have meat, cheerfully give it to them in their rooms.
Accustomed, as many are, to the use of flesh meat, it is not surprising that they should expect to see it on the sanitarium table. You may find it unadvisable to publish the bill of fare, giving a list of the foods supplied at the table; for the absence of flesh meat from the dietary may seem a formidable obstacle to those who are thinking of becoming patrons of the institution.
Let the food be palatably prepared and nicely served. More dishes will have to be prepared than would be necessary if flesh meat were served. Other things can be provided so that meats can be discarded. Milk and cream can be used by some.
I make myself a criterion for no one else. There are things that I cannot eat without suffering great distress. I try to learn that which is best for me, and then, saying nothing to any one, I partake of the things that I can eat, which often are simply two or three varieties that will not create a disturbance in the stomach.
Let us remember that we have had a long time to become accustomed to the health reform diet. We cannot expect anything else than that in our sanitariums it will be necessary to furnish dishes prepared somewhat differently from those prepared for our own use; for we have learned to relish plain food. It is necessary to plan more liberally for a medical institution than for a private family. Many things must be taken into consideration, and concessions must be made to meet the peculiar needs of the many classes of patients coming to our sanitariums. A straitjacket is not to be put on the appetite suddenly. When you become acquainted with these people, and understand their true condition, prescriptions can be given to meet the individual requirements.
In all our sanitariums a liberal bill of fare should be arranged for the patients’ dining room. I have not seen anything very extravagant in any of our medical institutions; but I have seen some tables that were decidedly lacking in a supply of good, inviting, palatable food. Often patients at such institutions, after remaining for a while, have decided that they were paying a large sum for room, board, and treatment, without receiving much in return, and have therefore left. Of course complaints greatly to the discredit of the institution were soon in circulation.
There are two extremes, both of which we should avoid. May the Lord help every one connected with our medical institutions not to advocate a meager supply of food. The men and women of the world who come to our sanitariums often have perverted appetites. Radical changes cannot be made suddenly for all these. Some cannot at once be placed on as plain a health-reform diet as would be acceptable in a private family. In a medical institution there are varied appetites to satisfy. Some require well-prepared vegetables to meet their peculiar needs. Others have not been able to use vegetables without suffering the consequence. The poor, sick dyspeptics need to be given many words of encouragement. Let the religious influence of a Christian home pervade the Sanitarium. This will be conducive to the health of the patients. All these things have to be managed carefully and prayerfully. The Lord sees the difficulties to be adjusted, and He will be your Helper.
To every one who is connected with the Wahroonga Sanitarium, I would say, as Paul said to Timothy, “Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine.” We need to heed the added injunction, too: “Continue in them; for in so doing thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:16.]
My brother, my sister, the Lord has greatly blessed you both. Your cheerful, happy temperament will be as a medicine. Have faith in God. Move, step by step, onward and upward. And as you associate with the patients and minister to them by imparting God’s word of comfort and hope, may the words of truth be to them as a leaf from the tree of life. Lead them on to have faith in Christ Jesus. Thus many souls will decide to count the cost of their sinful indulgence of intemperate habits and sensual propensities—indulgence that, if continued, would prove the ruin of soul as well as of body.
Sister Kress, talks to mothers given by you will be all the more appreciated because you are a mother. O if we only could make those in ignorance understand that mothers—yea, fathers too—are themselves to a high degree responsible for the texture of the fabric of character that they give to their children! By their own words and actions, by the temper they manifest, they exert over their little ones a molding influence. If they would only receive the help that Jesus offers them, both fathers and mothers may be a blessing to their children, by giving studious attention to the cultivation of right habits and practices physically, intellectually, and morally. True education is thus brought into the practical life.
March 11, 1903
I have just had placed in my hand the letter you sent me. Thank you. I have read it. My heart leaps with joy and hope to learn that you are so cheerful. I have not had time yet to read the pamphlets sent by Sister Irwin, but will write on these things more fully at some other time, if I can do so.
Yesterday I wrote to you some things that I hope will in no wise confuse you. I may have written too much in regard to the importance of having a liberal dietary in our sanitariums. I have been in several medical institutions where the supply of food was not as liberal as it should have been. As you well know, in providing for the sick we must not follow one set regimen, but must frequently vary the bill of fare and prepare food in different ways. I believe that the Lord will give all of you good judgment in the preparation of food. I have confidence to believe that He will give you wisdom to work unitedly, and that you will not weaken your influence by failing to co-operate with one another.
In our family we have breakfast at half-past six o’clock and diner at half-past one. We have no supper. We would change our times of eating a little, were it not for the fact that these are the most convenient hours for some of the members of the family. I eat but two meals a day and still follow the light given me thirty-five years ago. I use no meat. As for myself, I have settled the butter question. I do not use it. This question should easily be settled in every place where the purest article cannot be obtained. We have two good milch cows, a Jersey and a Holstein. We use cream, and all are satisfied with this. <Nevertheless, some persons cannot use cream or milk. [If] they can use a little butter, let them have it.>
The evidence you have that the blessing of God attends faithful efforts made to restore the sick by those having limited facilities are the very same that we had years ago in Battle Creek. Before our Sanitarium there was established, my husband and I went from house to house to give treatment. Under God’s blessing, we saved the lives of many who were suffering from attacks of diphtheria and bloody dysentery. Even physicians were burying their own children. Instruction was given to me by the Lord in regard to the kind of treatment I should give, and we had success.
What I have written, I desire you to regard as advice given to men and women whom I believe to have good, sanctified judgment. I know that one of the greatest dangers is in eating too much, thus making the stomach do too heavy work. I am sure that when an abstemious diet is practiced judiciously, excellent results follow.
I must now close, or I shall not be able to get this into the mail.
With much love.Lt 45, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 10, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have just written a letter to Brother and Sister Burden, a portion of which will be sent tomorrow. This letter to them is as much for yourselves as for them.
I have seen expressed in writing the idea that if you two families cannot be agreed upon some points in connection with the diet question, the only alternative is separation; for you believe that under such circumstances you could not work together. I felt sorry to see this statement. I understand the situation. God desires you to unite in working for men and women of varied minds—for infidels, and for church members of all denominations. This is a field in which you both can work to advantage; but you fear that a difference of opinion on a few minor matters is sufficient cause for you to break up your co-operative influence. If you could know how sad this makes my heart, you would begin to make a somewhat closer investigation of yourselves than you have made.
There is nothing that bears comparison with the aim and purpose of Christian instrumentalities laboring for the salvation of souls. At the time of baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, the will, the purpose, the inclination is pledged that the whole life—body, mind, and soul—shall be dead to the world and to all selfishness and shall become subordinate to the will of God.
The apostle Paul says: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:1-3.]
Is Christ divided? Is a trifling difference of opinion of sufficient consequence to part asunder very friends, so that they cannot unite in doing a good work? Are individual opinions to be regarded as being so infallible as not to admit of any change? This is certainly spiritual weakness. Let each worker humble his heart before God. As no one’s opinion is always without a flaw, do not act as if you could not talk the matter over together and concede to one another.
Brother and Sister Kress, I wish to present for your consideration a few points that have been revealed to me since first there arose the difficulties connected with the question of discarding flesh meat from the tables of our medical institutions. Other questions demand even more serious consideration, but I will now write in regard to this one.
I have been plainly instructed by the Lord that flesh meat should not be placed before the patients in our sanitarium dining rooms. Light was given me that the patients could have flesh meat, if, after hearing the parlor lectures, they still urged us to give it to them; but that, in such cases, it must be eaten in their own rooms. All the helpers are to discard flesh meat. But, as stated before, if, after knowing that the flesh of animals cannot be placed on the dining-room tables, a few patients urge that they must have meat, cheerfully give it to them in their rooms.
Accustomed, as many are, to the use of flesh meat, it is not surprising that they should expect to see it on the sanitarium table. You may find it unadvisable to publish the bill of fare, giving a list of the foods supplied at the table; for the absence of flesh meat from the dietary may seem a formidable obstacle to those who are thinking of becoming patrons of the institution.
Let the food be palatably prepared and nicely served. More dishes will have to be prepared than would be necessary if flesh meat were served. Other things can be provided so that meats can be discarded. Milk and cream can be used by some.
I make myself a criterion for no one else. There are things that I cannot eat without suffering great distress. I try to learn that which is best for me, and then, saying nothing to any one, I partake of the things that I can eat, which often are simply two or three varieties that will not create a disturbance in the stomach.
Let us remember that we have had a long time to become accustomed to the health reform diet. We cannot expect anything else than that in our sanitariums it will be necessary to furnish dishes prepared somewhat differently from those prepared for our own use; for we have learned to relish plain food. It is necessary to plan more liberally for a medical institution than for a private family. Many things must be taken into consideration, and concessions must be made to meet the peculiar needs of the many classes of patients coming to our sanitariums. A straitjacket is not to be put on the appetite suddenly. When you become acquainted with these people, and understand their true condition, prescriptions can be given to meet the individual requirements.
In all our sanitariums a liberal bill of fare should be arranged for the patients’ dining room. I have not seen anything very extravagant in any of our medical institutions; but I have seen some tables that were decidedly lacking in a supply of good, inviting, palatable food. Often patients at such institutions, after remaining for a while, have decided that they were paying a large sum for room, board, and treatment, without receiving much in return, and have therefore left. Of course complaints greatly to the discredit of the institution were soon in circulation.
There are two extremes, both of which we should avoid. May the Lord help every one connected with our medical institutions not to advocate a meager supply of food. The men and women of the world who come to our sanitariums often have perverted appetites. Radical changes cannot be made suddenly for all these. Some cannot at once be placed on as plain a health-reform diet as would be acceptable in a private family. In a medical institution there are varied appetites to satisfy. Some require well-prepared vegetables to meet their peculiar needs. Others have not been able to use vegetables without suffering the consequence. The poor, sick dyspeptics need to be given many words of encouragement. Let the religious influence of a Christian home pervade the Sanitarium. This will be conducive to the health of the patients. All these things have to be managed carefully and prayerfully. The Lord sees the difficulties to be adjusted, and He will be your Helper.
To every one who is connected with the Wahroonga Sanitarium, I would say, as Paul said to Timothy, “Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine.” We need to heed the added injunction, too: “Continue in them; for in so doing thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:16.]
My brother, my sister, the Lord has greatly blessed you both. Your cheerful, happy temperament will be as a medicine. Have faith in God. Move, step by step, onward and upward. And as you associate with the patients and minister to them by imparting God’s word of comfort and hope, may the words of truth be to them as a leaf from the tree of life. Lead them on to have faith in Christ Jesus. Thus many souls will decide to count the cost of their sinful indulgence of intemperate habits and sensual propensities—indulgence that, if continued, would prove the ruin of soul as well as of body.
Sister Kress, talks to mothers given by you will be all the more appreciated because you are a mother. O if we only could make those in ignorance understand that mothers—yea, fathers too—are themselves to a high degree responsible for the texture of the fabric of character that they give to their children! By their own words and actions, by the temper they manifest, they exert over their little ones a molding influence. If they would only receive the help that Jesus offers them, both fathers and mothers may be a blessing to their children, by giving studious attention to the cultivation of right habits and practices physically, intellectually, and morally. True education is thus brought into the practical life.
March 11, 1903
I have just had placed in my hand the letter you sent me. Thank you. I have read it. My heart leaps with joy and hope to learn that you are so cheerful. I have not had time yet to read the pamphlets sent by Sister Irwin, but will write on these things more fully at some other time, if I can do so.
Yesterday I wrote to you some things that I hope will in no wise confuse you. I may have written too much in regard to the importance of having a liberal dietary in our sanitariums. I have been in several medical institutions where the supply of food was not as liberal as it should have been. As you well know, in providing for the sick we must not follow one set regimen, but must frequently vary the bill of fare and prepare food in different ways. I believe that the Lord will give all of you good judgment in the preparation of food. I have confidence to believe that He will give you wisdom to work unitedly, and that you will not weaken your influence by failing to co-operate with one another.
In our family we have breakfast at half-past six o’clock and diner at half-past one. We have no supper. We would change our times of eating a little, were it not for the fact that these are the most convenient hours for some of the members of the family. I eat but two meals a day and still follow the light given me thirty-five years ago. I use no meat. As for myself, I have settled the butter question. I do not use it. This question should easily be settled in every place where the purest article cannot be obtained. We have two good milch cows, a Jersey and a Holstein. We use cream, and all are satisfied with this. <Nevertheless, some persons cannot use cream or milk. [If] they can use a little butter, let them have it.>
The evidence you have that the blessing of God attends faithful efforts made to restore the sick by those having limited facilities are the very same that we had years ago in Battle Creek. Before our Sanitarium there was established, my husband and I went from house to house to give treatment. Under God’s blessing, we saved the lives of many who were suffering from attacks of diphtheria and bloody dysentery. Even physicians were burying their own children. Instruction was given to me by the Lord in regard to the kind of treatment I should give, and we had success.
What I have written, I desire you to regard as advice given to men and women whom I believe to have good, sanctified judgment. I know that one of the greatest dangers is in eating too much, thus making the stomach do too heavy work. I am sure that when an abstemious diet is practiced judiciously, excellent results follow.
I must now close, or I shall not be able to get this into the mail.
With much love.Lt 45, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
March 10, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have just written a letter to Brother and Sister Burden, a portion of which will be sent tomorrow. This letter to them is as much for yourselves as for them.
I have seen expressed in writing the idea that if you two families cannot be agreed upon some points in connection with the diet question, the only alternative is separation; for you believe that under such circumstances you could not work together. I felt sorry to see this statement. I understand the situation. God desires you to unite in working for men and women of varied minds—for infidels, and for church members of all denominations. This is a field in which you both can work to advantage; but you fear that a difference of opinion on a few minor matters is sufficient cause for you to break up your co-operative influence. If you could know how sad this makes my heart, you would begin to make a somewhat closer investigation of yourselves than you have made.
There is nothing that bears comparison with the aim and purpose of Christian instrumentalities laboring for the salvation of souls. At the time of baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, the will, the purpose, the inclination is pledged that the whole life—body, mind, and soul—shall be dead to the world and to all selfishness and shall become subordinate to the will of God.
The apostle Paul says: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:1-3.]
Is Christ divided? Is a trifling difference of opinion of sufficient consequence to part asunder very friends, so that they cannot unite in doing a good work? Are individual opinions to be regarded as being so infallible as not to admit of any change? This is certainly spiritual weakness. Let each worker humble his heart before God. As no one’s opinion is always without a flaw, do not act as if you could not talk the matter over together and concede to one another.
Brother and Sister Kress, I wish to present for your consideration a few points that have been revealed to me since first there arose the difficulties connected with the question of discarding flesh meat from the tables of our medical institutions. Other questions demand even more serious consideration, but I will now write in regard to this one.
I have been plainly instructed by the Lord that flesh meat should not be placed before the patients in our sanitarium dining rooms. Light was given me that the patients could have flesh meat, if, after hearing the parlor lectures, they still urged us to give it to them; but that, in such cases, it must be eaten in their own rooms. All the helpers are to discard flesh meat. But, as stated before, if, after knowing that the flesh of animals cannot be placed on the dining-room tables, a few patients urge that they must have meat, cheerfully give it to them in their rooms.
Accustomed, as many are, to the use of flesh meat, it is not surprising that they should expect to see it on the sanitarium table. You may find it unadvisable to publish the bill of fare, giving a list of the foods supplied at the table; for the absence of flesh meat from the dietary may seem a formidable obstacle to those who are thinking of becoming patrons of the institution.
Let the food be palatably prepared and nicely served. More dishes will have to be prepared than would be necessary if flesh meat were served. Other things can be provided so that meats can be discarded. Milk and cream can be used by some.
I make myself a criterion for no one else. There are things that I cannot eat without suffering great distress. I try to learn that which is best for me, and then, saying nothing to any one, I partake of the things that I can eat, which often are simply two or three varieties that will not create a disturbance in the stomach.
Let us remember that we have had a long time to become accustomed to the health reform diet. We cannot expect anything else than that in our sanitariums it will be necessary to furnish dishes prepared somewhat differently from those prepared for our own use; for we have learned to relish plain food. It is necessary to plan more liberally for a medical institution than for a private family. Many things must be taken into consideration, and concessions must be made to meet the peculiar needs of the many classes of patients coming to our sanitariums. A straitjacket is not to be put on the appetite suddenly. When you become acquainted with these people, and understand their true condition, prescriptions can be given to meet the individual requirements.
In all our sanitariums a liberal bill of fare should be arranged for the patients’ dining room. I have not seen anything very extravagant in any of our medical institutions; but I have seen some tables that were decidedly lacking in a supply of good, inviting, palatable food. Often patients at such institutions, after remaining for a while, have decided that they were paying a large sum for room, board, and treatment, without receiving much in return, and have therefore left. Of course complaints greatly to the discredit of the institution were soon in circulation.
There are two extremes, both of which we should avoid. May the Lord help every one connected with our medical institutions not to advocate a meager supply of food. The men and women of the world who come to our sanitariums often have perverted appetites. Radical changes cannot be made suddenly for all these. Some cannot at once be placed on as plain a health-reform diet as would be acceptable in a private family. In a medical institution there are varied appetites to satisfy. Some require well-prepared vegetables to meet their peculiar needs. Others have not been able to use vegetables without suffering the consequence. The poor, sick dyspeptics need to be given many words of encouragement. Let the religious influence of a Christian home pervade the Sanitarium. This will be conducive to the health of the patients. All these things have to be managed carefully and prayerfully. The Lord sees the difficulties to be adjusted, and He will be your Helper.
To every one who is connected with the Wahroonga Sanitarium, I would say, as Paul said to Timothy, “Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine.” We need to heed the added injunction, too: “Continue in them; for in so doing thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:16.]
My brother, my sister, the Lord has greatly blessed you both. Your cheerful, happy temperament will be as a medicine. Have faith in God. Move, step by step, onward and upward. And as you associate with the patients and minister to them by imparting God’s word of comfort and hope, may the words of truth be to them as a leaf from the tree of life. Lead them on to have faith in Christ Jesus. Thus many souls will decide to count the cost of their sinful indulgence of intemperate habits and sensual propensities—indulgence that, if continued, would prove the ruin of soul as well as of body.
Sister Kress, talks to mothers given by you will be all the more appreciated because you are a mother. O if we only could make those in ignorance understand that mothers—yea, fathers too—are themselves to a high degree responsible for the texture of the fabric of character that they give to their children! By their own words and actions, by the temper they manifest, they exert over their little ones a molding influence. If they would only receive the help that Jesus offers them, both fathers and mothers may be a blessing to their children, by giving studious attention to the cultivation of right habits and practices physically, intellectually, and morally. True education is thus brought into the practical life.
March 11, 1903
I have just had placed in my hand the letter you sent me. Thank you. I have read it. My heart leaps with joy and hope to learn that you are so cheerful. I have not had time yet to read the pamphlets sent by Sister Irwin, but will write on these things more fully at some other time, if I can do so.
Yesterday I wrote to you some things that I hope will in no wise confuse you. I may have written too much in regard to the importance of having a liberal dietary in our sanitariums. I have been in several medical institutions where the supply of food was not as liberal as it should have been. As you well know, in providing for the sick we must not follow one set regimen, but must frequently vary the bill of fare and prepare food in different ways. I believe that the Lord will give all of you good judgment in the preparation of food. I have confidence to believe that He will give you wisdom to work unitedly, and that you will not weaken your influence by failing to co-operate with one another.
In our family we have breakfast at half-past six o’clock and diner at half-past one. We have no supper. We would change our times of eating a little, were it not for the fact that these are the most convenient hours for some of the members of the family. I eat but two meals a day and still follow the light given me thirty-five years ago. I use no meat. As for myself, I have settled the butter question. I do not use it. This question should easily be settled in every place where the purest article cannot be obtained. We have two good milch cows, a Jersey and a Holstein. We use cream, and all are satisfied with this. <Nevertheless, some persons cannot use cream or milk. [If] they can use a little butter, let them have it.>
The evidence you have that the blessing of God attends faithful efforts made to restore the sick by those having limited facilities are the very same that we had years ago in Battle Creek. Before our Sanitarium there was established, my husband and I went from house to house to give treatment. Under God’s blessing, we saved the lives of many who were suffering from attacks of diphtheria and bloody dysentery. Even physicians were burying their own children. Instruction was given to me by the Lord in regard to the kind of treatment I should give, and we had success.
What I have written, I desire you to regard as advice given to men and women whom I believe to have good, sanctified judgment. I know that one of the greatest dangers is in eating too much, thus making the stomach do too heavy work. I am sure that when an abstemious diet is practiced judiciously, excellent results follow.
I must now close, or I shall not be able to get this into the mail.
With much love.
Lt 46, 1903
Evans, I. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
June, 1901
Dear Brother Evans,—
Elder Daniells has written to me in regard to an old wooden building used by the Review office as a storehouse. He says that you and he and others have considered the matter of removing this old building and putting up in its place a brick building. I have written a few words to Elder Daniells regarding this matter and will now write to you. I am much surprised that such a proposition should be made, after all that was said at the last General Conference. The buildings piled up in Battle Creek by our people stand as an offense to God. Much has been crowded into this city and has served as a decoy, while many other cities of America have been left unworked. This condition of things testifies to the unfaithfulness of the stewards to whom God entrusted the work of seeing that all parts of His vineyard received a proportionate amount of attention.
The course of those who had the management of the work makes it hard for me to think that they see this matter as it is. It has cost me great pain of heart to look on these buildings, to think of their history for the past twenty years, and to realize how God regards some of the transactions that have taken place in connection with His work. I have been sorely grieved as I have seen God’s work tainted and corrupted with selfishness, until God has permitted prosperity to cease from His institutions. From the record they have made, it looks as if the blind had been leading the blind.
Had those who listened to the message sent to the Lord’s people at the last General Conference cleared the King’s highway, had they confessed the sin that made the reproof necessary, how greatly the Lord would have blessed them. But they turned away from the truth to follow their own human wisdom. My brethren, your words and actions are recorded in the books of heaven. I tell you that the Lord will soon turn and overturn, and you will have evidence that He means what He says in the warnings that He sends. For Christ’s sake do not, I beg of you, add another building to the Review and Herald office.
I dare not give you all the light given me. You could not bear it. The commercial work brought into the Review and Herald office is defiling the institution that God declared should be kept free from all moral and spiritual defilement. It is for the commercial work that more facilities and workers are demanded. You will surely have fewer buildings. Before you are aware, the Lord’s hand will be stretched out to destroy rather than to create and add to.
For years the youth in the Review office have been treated in a way that is displeasing to God. These youth come to the office to be trained for service, to become masters of their business. Thoroughly trained, efficient printers can find employment in any country. But the slack, inefficient training given to the youth in the Review and Herald office is far from the training that God wants them to receive. Some of the matter they handle is of satanic origin and brings continual temptation to them. Thus Satan is sowing his seeds in their minds. The management has been destitute of proper discipline. Some of the language often used is a shame to any office. The harsh ordering that is heard, the masterly authority exercised, are giving the youth a terrible education.
When a certain work is committed to a number of people, each should act his part in such a way that light will shine out amidst the moral darkness. Let each one guard himself strictly, standing in his lot and place, to do his appointed work. Let no hasty, condemnatory words be spoken in the Lord’s institutions. Let those for whom Christ has died respect and help one another, treating all with kindness and patience. This world is a school, in which we are to be prepared to enter the higher school in the courts above. If one forgets his place, and speak harshly to a fellow worker, let him remember that he has wounded Christ in the person of one of His children. Let not the one who has been hurt retaliate. Let him be so kind and considerate that the one who has spoken discourteously will feel ashamed of himself. “Greater is he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.] He has conquered self—the strongest foe with which man has to deal.
The Saviour understands every feeling of the human heart. He hears every word uttered. He measures the temptation that one member of His family on earth places before another member.
I wish to speak about the light given me after the General Conference. It was at the time of this Conference that those connected with the publishing work should have been thoroughly converted. Special heed should have been given to the Testimonies of the Spirit of God. Had there been a break at the time of the Conference, everything would have been changed. The Spirit of God would have worked upon hearts. But since the Conference, the evils that existed before have continued to exist, because in the changes made, men were placed in positions of influence who needed to be converted. Sins have been left unconfessed. The spirit manifested since the Conference has, in many respects, been as objectionable as the spirit manifested before the Conference.
Commercial work, of a character that is displeasing to God, has been accepted and handled in the Review office. Matter containing principles that lead to false doctrines has been brought into the office. Stewardship of this kind shows that men are blinded, that they are lacking in spiritual discernment. The desecration that the printing of these sentiments has brought into the office has had an influence like the influence of the desecration of the temple in Christ’s day.
The taking in of so large an amount of commercial work called for new presses and other facilities, which in turn called for more commercial work. And by some of this commercial work the minds of the workers have been poisoned. Some have left the office because their wages were not as high as they thought they ought to be. They asked, Why should not we receive the pay that the workers in the printing offices of the world receive when they do the work that we do. Would they have felt thus if there had been in the office the reformation that the Lord calls for?
Had the standard been kept as high as it ought to have been, nothing that militates against the truth would have been received into the publishing house. Angels of God are walking through every room of the office. Every worker in the institution should have been filled with the thought of the nearness of Christ’s second coming and the necessity of preparing for this event. It was to proclaim the message of His coming that our publishing houses were established, not to send out to the world errors that have a seductive influence on human minds.
The spiritual atmosphere pervading a printing office will be of the same character as the matter brought into it. The matter received into our printing offices is to be the pure truth of God, cleansed from all heresy. It is an offense to God for the time and ability of the workers in our publishing houses to be given to printing error of Satan. When they do this, they are not laboring with God, but with the enemy of all righteousness. There are important, elevated themes upon which we are to dwell. The subject of the incarnation of Christ should receive more of our thought. Christ came to the world to stand at the head of humanity, that humanity might partake of divinity. The Majesty of heaven humbled Himself to teach His followers the lesson of humility. He was tempted in all points like as we are, that He might know how to succor them that are tempted.
Lt 47, 1903
Gilbert, F. C.
Oakland, California
March 28, 1903
My dear brother,—
I read your letter this morning. It is full of rich things, which encourage and bless.
We came to Oakland last Monday to attend the General Conference. The Conference proper does not open until Friday, but the preliminary councils had already begun when we arrived. In this meeting there will be many important questions to consider. We shall require the wisdom that God alone can give. We have been praying that the Lord will richly bestow His grace upon us. We need His leadership at every step. We must follow closely in the footprints of Jesus. He says, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] I have been deeply impressed that there must be much less talk, much less criticism, and much more earnest soul-hunger for the words of Bible truth.
Our clearest conceptions cannot reach to a full understanding of the things of God. But I know that there is much more knowledge for us if we will only seek for it by faith, believing the promises. We are too easily satisfied with a little. If we overcome in the battle with the powers of darkness, we must daily receive light and grace from on high. Before we can fulfil the requirements of God, we must receive power from the Source of all power.
We are not merely to enjoy selfishly the contemplation of heavenly things. We are to grasp much that, to those who are weak in faith, we may speak words that will encourage them to press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. We must gather divine instruction from the teachings of our Lord, that we may flash light upon the pathway of those who are struggling against what seem to them to be insurmountable difficulties. We must reach out for refined, elevated, ennobling language with which to express spiritual ideas.
Christ is to be our Example in all things. He clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this earth to be afflicted in all points on which human beings are afflicted. He has passed through the experience through which we are called to pass. But there is one experience through which He has never passed—the experience of sinning. It is because, though tempted in all points like as we are, He was yet without sin, that He is able to succor those that are tempted. The divine-human Sin-bearer—He can take away our sins.
The thought is too great for our comprehension. O how honored we are in having a Saviour who can save to the uttermost all who come unto God by Him. “Unto the uttermost”—these words comprehend and include all. [Hebrews 7:25.]
The Lord Jesus can communicate to us spiritual truths that no words of ours can adequately express. The brightness of the celestial world, the splendor and joy of the Christian’s hope, which make our hearts glow within us, we can but feebly portray.
The apostle Paul was taken to the third heaven, and while there was given a view of celestial things. When he returned to a consciousness of earthly things, he found that it was impossible for him to describe the enrapturing scenes that had passed before him. But he kept in his soul the wonderful picture of what he had seen.
So long as God gives me power to speak to our people, I shall continue to call upon parents to leave the cities and get homes in the country where they can cultivate the soil and learn from the book of nature the lessons of purity and simplicity. The things of nature are the Lord’s silent ministers given to us to teach us spiritual truths. They speak to us of the love of God and declare the wisdom of the great Master-artist.
I love the beautiful flowers. They are memories of Eden pointing to the blessed country into which, if faithful, we shall soon enter. The Lord is leading my mind to the health-giving properties of the flowers and trees.
How wonderful the lesson taught by the water lily which, growing amidst debris and driftwood, strikes its channeled stem and roots downward to the sand beneath and upon the bosom of the lake opens its flowers of spotless purity and loveliness.
The heavens declare the glory of God. The stars speak of Him. The sun, the ruler of the day and the moon, with its softer light, declare His glory.
We are to look through nature to nature’s God. Let us open our hearts to understand the lessons of these teachers. To those who are in touch with God, the works of His hands speak of the kingdom that is eternal in the heavens. Let us enter by faith the holy of holies, and hold communion with our heavenly Father and with our Redeemer, the Saviour of sinners, who will wash us and make us white in His blood.
As the things of nature show their appreciation of the Master-worker by doing their best to beautify the earth and to represent God’s perfection, so human beings should strive in their sphere to represent God’s perfection, allowing Him to work out through them His purposes of justice, mercy, and goodness.
This world is our school—a school of discipline and training. We are placed here to form characters like the character of Christ and to acquire the habits and the language of the higher life. Influences opposed to good abound on every side. The developments of sin are becoming so full, so deep, so abhorrent to God, that soon He will arise in majesty to shake terribly the earth. So artful are the plans of the enemy, so specious the complications that he brings about, that those who are weak in the faith cannot discern his deceptions. They fall into the snares prepared by Satan, who works through human instrumentalities to deceive if possible the very elect. Only those who are closely connected with God will be able to discern the falsehoods and the intrigues of the enemy.
There are in this world only two classes, those who serve God, and those who stand under the black banner of the prince of darkness. Those who enter the gates of the city of God must in this world live in union with Christ.
The principles of God’s government—the only principles that will endure from everlasting to everlasting—are to be followed by those who are seeking for entrance into the kingdom of heaven. The line of demarcation between those who serve God and those who serve Him not is to be kept clear and distinct.
Think of the glory awaiting those who overcome! They will see the face of Him in whose presence there is fulness of joy and at whose right hand there are pleasures for ever more.
Let us allow God to control our minds. Let us not say or do anything that will turn a fellow being from the right way.
I feel very sad as I think of how few there are who show that they have tasted the deep blessedness of communion with a risen, ascended Saviour. Men of the world are striving for the supremacy. God’s followers are to keep Christ ever in view, inquiring, Is this the way of the Lord? A holy desire to live the life of Christ is to fill our hearts. In Him dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. In Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
O that our people could realize what advantages would be theirs if they would look constantly to Jesus! “We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 3:18.] He is our Alpha and our Omega. Pressing close to His side and holding communion with Him, we become like Him. Through the transforming power of the Spirit of Christ, we are changed in heart and life. His words are engraven on the tablets of the soul, and we are His witnesses representing Him in the daily life.
Such a life is the only true religious life. It is only by living this life that we can form Christlike characters.
Many claim to be religious. But it is quite another thing to be a true Christian. Paul was a religious man before his conversion. Afterward, he was a Christian. The Saviour revealed Himself to Paul, and Paul was converted. Ever after, Christ was to him the chiefest among ten thousand, and the one altogether lovely.
I am much encouraged by your letter. It has been a strange thing to me that there were so few who felt a burden to labor for the Jewish people, who are scattered throughout so many lands. Christ will be with you as you strive to strengthen your perceptive faculties, that you may more clearly behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. The slumbering faculties of the Jewish people are to be aroused. The Old Testament Scriptures, blending with the New, will be to them as the dawning of a new creation, or as the resurrection of the soul. Memory will be awakened as Christ is seen portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament. Souls will be saved from the Jewish nation as the doors of the New Testament are unlocked with the key of the Old Testament. Christ will be recognized as the Saviour of the world, as it is seen how clearly the New Testament explains the Old. Many of the Jewish people will by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them the words will be fulfilled, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] They will be changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. They will be made partakers of the divine nature. The image of divinity will be stamped on their souls. If they will continue to learn of Christ, they will attain to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
O that many of the Jewish people may open the chambers of the mind, and let the light of heaven shine in to irradiate the whole being.
I am glad that you are so successful in your work. I pray that God will work with all of us. Let us gain strength by exercising increased faith, moving onward and upward step by step, from victory to victory.
Be of good courage in the Lord. May He continue to bless you, as He has blessed you in the past, is my prayer.
Your sister in the faith and in the love of the truth
Lt 48, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
Oakland, California
April 1, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
The Australian mail leaves tomorrow, and I thought I should try to send you a short letter. My health is much better than when I wrote last. I have been well since coming to Oakland, notwithstanding that for the last week the weather has been very unpleasant. I am determined to do my best to keep well and in working order.
I and my workers are on the ground, attending the General Conference. My son Willie came to Oakland the 22nd of March. Sara, Maggie, and I came the next day. Clarence Crisler came a day or two after that. The General Conference asked for Clarence’s services during the meeting, and Dores Robinson is working for me in his place. He assists Maggie in reporting my talks and is a great help. When the council meetings began, there were only a few delegates present. Some of them were delayed by late trains.
I have spoken six times since coming down.
We intended to bring a horse and carriage from St. Helena, but we found that the care of the horse would be some trouble, and we decided to rent a wheel chair during the meetings. Sara found a good one, and in it I am wheeled to and from the meetings by different ones—Willie, Sara, Maggie, and by one and another of our ministers.
For nearly a week the rain has fallen steadily. Today the sky is clear and the sun shines brightly. We hope for good weather now. If the weather continues fair this week, I think I shall plead for a large tent to be pitched, so that all who attend the meetings shall be able to hear what is said. The Oakland church is a very hard one to hear in. This has been a great disadvantage. The effect of the social meeting is largely lost, because it is impossible to hear what the different ones say.
I expect to take part in the meetings daily. There are many important questions to be settled. We should sometimes feel discouraged if we depended on our own wisdom and understanding. We are looking to God. The Holy Spirit will do His own work in and for the people of God at this meeting. He will graciously bring their hearts under the power of the truths for this time.
Christ made an infinite sacrifice—even the sacrifice of His own life—to redeem us. It is our privilege to taste the sweetness of communion with a crucified and risen Saviour. But in order for this to be, self must be surrendered to God. Self-indulgence means that Christ is not followed in self-denial and cross-bearing. When self strives for the highest place, the spiritual perceptions become dimmed. The eyes are turned from Christ to the poor picture of self. We cannot afford to become separated from Christ. We must keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Beholding Him by faith, we become changed into His image. We are made partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Beholding Christ means talking with Christ and working with an eye single to His glory. It is as we commune with Christ that precious, holy light shines into our souls, until every chamber is lighted up, and we become bright lights in the world, reflecting to others the glory of Christ.
We are to keep Christ before us as the example of perfection. When we allow our minds to dwell upon the supposed imperfections of others, we become sinful in word and deed. Our own souls become filled with the leaven of evil. Every one who dwells upon the faults of others commits sin.
“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]
We may pray, “Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make Thy way straight before my face. For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulcher; they flatter with their tongue. Destroy Thou them, O God; let them fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions; for they have rebelled against Thee. But let all those that put their trust in Thee rejoice; let them ever shout for joy, because Thou defendest them; let them also that love Thy name be joyful in Thee. For Thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt Thou compass him as with a shield.” [Psalm 5:8-12.]
We shall meet with many difficulties, but if we keep our minds and hearts fixed upon the precious Saviour, if we talk of His love and power, the perplexities will pass away, and we shall become happy in the assurance of a Saviour’s love. We are not dependent upon the world and its changeableness. He in whom dwelleth “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily,” and “in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,” is our joy and crown of rejoicing, our peace, our power, our satisfaction. [Colossians 2:9, 3.]
Then let us rejoice, whatever may happen, within or without. From the Sun of Righteousness subduing, yet cheering rays of light are shed upon us and are reflected back by us to the throne of God.
O how sad it is that Christians think and talk of the little differences existing among them, allowing them to depress the soul. We must obtain that grace that will make us able to dwell together in love and unity in this life, else we can never dwell together in the life to come. I am trying to show our people the need of the unity for which Christ prayed. I have tried to impress upon them the need of their souls’ bowing beneath the thought of the preciousness of the truth which, if practiced, will enable us to attain to Christian perfection and to live consecrated lives. The soul must fully own the power and authority of the Word of God. Then, though we may make mistakes, we always have a touchstone by which to test our ways and a standard by which we may, by true service, recall the heart and conscience. Christ, the perfect example, is ever before us. To Him we may look for grace and power to overcome every fault. We shall get ready for the great day of God by carrying out in the daily life the perfect principles presented before us in the life of Christ. We are called and chosen by Him to be His representatives. We are God’s children. By spiritual adoption we are His sons and daughters. By spiritual adoption we are to live in conformity to His will, representing Him in life and character.
“Unto the angel of the church in Sardis write: These things saith He that hath the seven spirits of God, and the seven stars, I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” [Revelation 3:1.] God called upon this church to make a change. They had a name to live, but their works were destitute of the love of Jesus. O how many have fallen because they trusted in their profession for salvation! How many are lost by their effort to keep up a name! If one has the reputation of being a successful evangelist, a gifted preacher, a man of prayer, a man of faith, a man of special devotion, there is positive danger that he will make shipwreck of faith when tried by the little tests that God suffers to come. Often his great effort will be to maintain his reputation.
He who lives in the fear that others do not appreciate his value is losing sight of Him who alone makes us worthy of glorifying God. Let us be faithful stewards over ourselves. Let us look away from self to Christ. Then there will be no trouble at all. All the work done, however excellent it may appear to be, is worthless if not done in the love of Jesus. One may go through the whole round of religious activity, and yet, unless Christ is woven into all that he says and does, he will work for his own glory.
Self, self, self is continually intruding upon us. O what a mockery is a name to be religious, while the life is not hid with Christ in God, while there is no sense of the presence of the Saviour. We need so much to dig deep and lay our foundation upon the Rock Christ Jesus.
It is the purity that Christ imparts that gives sacredness and elevation to our work. The work that is done with a zeal that is not according to knowledge does not bear the divine impress. We need the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, which imparts a distrust of self and throws the helpless soul upon Christ.
May God deliver us from the slavery of trying to maintain our dignity. May He give us grace to walk humbly with Him, doing all with the constant realization that we are ever in His presence.
We are on trial for our lives. I am instructed to say that unless there is an entire change in our attitude, we shall not stand faultless before the great white throne. Perfect conformity to the will of God is the condition upon which eternal life is given. Peter writes, “Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” This is our life insurance policy. “Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.” [2 Peter 1:5-12.]
I must close this letter now; for the mail goes tomorrow morning. I would that both of you could be in our meetings. We are waiting upon the Lord, hoping for a much greater manifestation of His love and power.
May the Lord bless you, my dear friends.
Lt 49, 1903
Daniells, A. G. and his Fellow Workers
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 12, 1903
To Elder Daniells and his fellow workers
Dear brethren,—
I am home again. I thank the Lord that I am in my own room once more. A great sadness is upon me. I see that some in God’s service are inclined to find fault and to work selfishly, using the Lord’s goods to please and glorify self. Some do this in one way and some in another. Some try to gather all the means that they can to invest in the work in some place in which they are interested, forgetting that the Lord has pointed out where the means should be used. Let every one be careful, especially in regard to the fields which God has said should be worked, but which have been neglected. When a beginning has been made in a new field, it is not to be treated as some who occupy positions of responsibility treated the work in the Southern field.
I am much perplexed. I expected to say some things in the meeting on Sunday morning, but I was instructed that I would better not say anything that would arouse resentment.
I entreat Brother Daniells and Brother Prescott to say nothing that will drive Dr. Kellogg to desperation. He may be saved, to do the work of repentance, if he is not driven into a corner. But if he is driven to desperation, we shall all have a very hard time.
My brethren, I beseech you to walk humbly with God. Do not use the words that I have spoken under great perplexity and distress to hasten a crisis. Be as wise as serpents and as harmless as doves. Understand that the Spirit of the Lord can work on minds, that God’s hand is on the wheel, and that much must be left with Him to work out as He will.
There are so many who do not see the things that work for their good. The Lord would have every man stand in his lot and place. One man is not to step out of his place to do something that the Lord has plainly stated He has given to another man to do. To every man is given his work. And if all will attend to their individual duties, looking to Jesus and seeking counsel of Him, they will be guided aright. And they will have that confidence in their brethren which they desire their brethren to have in them. But he who would uproot a man in order to carry out his own ideas is doing a work that God has not given him.
The Scriptures declare, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” [James 1:5-7.]
This promise is ours. Let us believe it. Christ is our personal Saviour. We are not to look to men, asking them to tell us what our duty is. God is to be sought after. His promise, so definite and so full, is not a mockery. He who asks in faith and in the name of Christ will receive that for which he asks. If a brother comes to him, and seeks to weaken his faith in God, he is not to accept his ideas. He has received directions from God.
Let us be careful how we press our opinions upon those whom God has instructed. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.” [Verse 5.] Brother Daniells, God would not have you suppose that you can exercise a kingly power over your brethren. “Lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord; looking diligently, lest any man fail of the grace of God, lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” [Hebrews 12:12-15.]
I have been interrupted many times since I began this letter, but the impression is still with me that I had when I began to write—the impression that just now we must step softly and wear the gospel shoes. “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.” [Ephesians 6:14, 15.]
There must be more praying among us. And we must have increased faith. Then God will work for us when we are in difficult places. God can soften the hardest heart.
Be careful, my brethren, not to do anything rash. Under the pressure that was upon me last Sabbath, I felt that the time had come to warn our people against being taken advantage of in any way. But I was admonished that the course which I had pursued during the meeting was the right course, and that I must not say anything that would stir up confusion and strife in the Conference. I was forbidden to say the things that I thought I must say on Sunday morning. Light came into my mind, and I was given a subject to present. I was instructed that I must try to lead the minds of the people away from the difficulties and perplexities around them.
The Lord requires us to do all that is possible to save Dr. Kellogg. We are to seek, by revealing a conciliatory spirit, to save him from himself. Give him no occasion to wrench himself from the faith. You are not to sanction wrong. You are to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. But while you are to stand firm for truth and righteousness, you are to remember your own danger, and walk humbly with God.
There is an important work to be done in Battle Creek in the coming councils. If you can move so wisely as to save Dr. Kellogg, and yet not sacrifice one principle of truth, if you can pass through this crisis without the loss of one soul, it will be because the Lord has worked with minds. A great and wonderful victory will be gained because the Lord has been accepted as the Guide and Leader of His people.
*****
I am drawn out to call upon our people to make every effort to save souls. We need increased faith. The hearts of our church members should be drawn out in prayer for those who are preaching the gospel. And ministers must take time to pray for themselves and for the people of God, whom they are appointed to serve.
We are lamentably deficient in faith. We need a firmer belief in the words, “As the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void; but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Isaiah 55:10, 11.] We must pray more earnestly than we have done in the past for the deep moving of the Holy Spirit. We must not depend upon money as our means of success. All the riches in the world could not save one soul. But we can, through the Holy Spirit’s power, draw near to souls and lead them to look away from the things of earth to the things of heaven, to lift their eyes to Christ. We must consecrate all the powers of our being to the work of rescuing those whom Satan is seeking to draw to destruction. And in this work Christ is to be exalted as all and in all.
Prayer is acceptable to God only when offered in humility and contrition and in the name of Christ. He who hears and answers prayer knows those who pray in humbleness of heart. The true Christian asks for nothing except in the name of Christ, and he expects nothing except through His mediation. He desires that Christ shall have the glory of presenting his prayers to the Father, and he is willing to receive the blessing from God through Christ.
The Spirit of God has much to do with acceptable prayer. He softens the heart; He enlightens the mind, enabling it to discern its own wants; He quickens our desires, causing us to hunger and thirst after righteousness; He intercedes in behalf of the sincere suppliant. “The Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He that searcheth the heart knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the same according to the will of God.” [Romans 8:26, 27.]
“He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” [Hebrews 11:6.] The human being must draw nigh to God, realizing that he must have the help that God alone can give. It is the glory of God to be known as the hearer of prayer because the human suppliant believes that He will hear and answer.
Christ declares, “All things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.] Paul’s language is explicit and encouraging: “Be careful for nothing”—that is, Do not worry or fret—“but in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known unto God.” [Philippians 4:6.]
The prayer of faith is the key that unlocks the treasury of heaven. As we commit our souls to God, let us remember that He holds Himself responsible to hear and answer our supplications. He invites us to come to Him, and He bestows on us His best and choicest gifts—gifts that will supply our great need. He loves to help us. Let us trust in His wisdom and His power. O what faith we should have! O what peace and comfort we should enjoy! Open your heart to the Spirit of God. Then the Lord will work through you and bless your labors.
Lt 51, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
November 3, 1903
Previously unpublished.
Dr. Kellogg
Dear Brother,—
Be sure that you have a sound faith, a sound doctrine. You have virtually united yourself with those who do not keep the commandments of God. The Lord has manifested Himself to you in a remarkable manner. Was it that you should exalt yourself? No; it was that the truth which you claimed to believe might be magnified.
If you had twenty times the assurance that you now have, which leads you to repudiate those who do not accept your propositions as correct, it would not save your you. You need to feel the converting power of God. This would humble your heart. You need to heed the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Behold Him; for He is the One who will test your work, to see whether it is genuine. He says of you, “You are weighed in the balance, and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.]
Jesus of Nazareth is the great pattern medical missionary, the greatest minister of righteousness. He preached the gospel and practiced the gospel. He spent whole nights in prayer. In this world, bearing our human nature, He lived a life of unsullied purity and perfect holiness. He opened the way for all other medical missionaries to labor. When His workers take their eyes off Him to follow Dr. Kellogg’s or any man’s methods, however wise that man may seem to be, they are leaving the safe path. He works to refine and ennoble His people, to heal the wounds and bruises that sin has made in their hearts.
Lt 52, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
Oakland, California
April 5, 1903
Dr. Kellogg
Dear Brother,—
I wish to present before you some things. I have words to speak to you. Is it possible that you do not realize that Satan is playing the game of life for your soul? You are certainly in danger. You have not walked perfectly before the Lord. You have been ambitious and have opened before worldlings that which you should not have opened to them. You have made with them a confederacy wholly displeasing to the Lord.
Had you humbled your heart before the Lord, and made thorough work for repentance, in accordance with the reproof of the Lord, He would have been glorified in you, but you have vindicated your course when you have done unrighteously.
God would have you a thoroughly converted man. The work of conversion is to begin in your heart and to work outward in your life. You are no longer to exercise a kingly power, as you certainly have done in the past. Thus saith the Lord, You have made your own paths, and now the hill Difficulty has to be climbed.
Every man who, placed in a position of influence, begins his years of service with a spirit like that of Jehu will surely reap that which he has sown. It becomes men in responsible places to heed the words, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.]
My brother, your work is to understand why the displeasure of God came upon the Sanitarium. I have been shown that it was because of your own departure from the way of the Lord. Every word spoken in your favor is, you think, just as it should be. Those whose lips speak your praise do you decided injury, but you count all such as your friends. But you place those who differ with you in the catalogue of enemies.
You need to inquire in regard to the burning of the Sanitarium, and heed the lesson that God is teaching you. This matter is to be carefully and prayerfully studied. Unless you humble your heart before God, your eyes will never see the kingdom of God. You need to be cleansed in spirit, in language, in judgment. Your ideas are so mystical that they are destructive to the real substance, and the minds of some are becoming confused in regard to the foundation of our faith. If you allow your mind to become thus diverted, you will give a wrong mold to the work that has made us what we are—Seventh-day Adventists. When you permit your mind to take this range, it is led and deceived by Satan’s specious views of realities that God does not design shall be spiritualized away.
[The additional material below is found in the handwritten original, but was not included in the letter when it was copied in 1903.]
This was the danger with you when you first were in service in the Sanitarium. The matter was presented to me to be presented to you. [Doctors] Fairfield and Sprague never recovered their standing. I warn you, having the word of the Lord for your counsel, not to make warfare against the true landmarks God has given us.
Had you, yes, you, J. H. Kellogg, heeded the word of the Lord, the Lord would not have permitted that sanitarium to be consumed. You would have exerted your influence to make plants in the cities in America and then (as has been repeated to you over and over again) the many plants in different states would have had sufficient influence to have given character to the work and double forces would have created treble forces and thus the [work] would have swelled until there would have been God’s memorials in many cities where they are not.
There would have been strong forces converted to the truth to work in medical missionary lines connected with the gospel to be preached as Christ after His resurrection gave His commission to His disciples: “Teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:19, 20). This is the work that should have been done.
You have kept the medical missionary work too much a distinct work, separate from the ministry of the Word. God is not in this peculiar phase of the work. The gospel and its ministry in medical missionary work is one work to accomplish the proclamation of the last message of mercy to our world. God has made the work one and you have not blended with the gospel ministry as you should have done.
There needs to be a decided change on both sides because of the oppression of the enemy. The Lord has given us light that should be recognized in the missionary work that is to be done united with the preaching of the gospel. Years have the warnings been coming to you line upon line, precept upon precept, but you have been breaking away from all restraint. Soon, unless you shall take heed, the Lord will say to you, “He is joined to his idols, let him alone.” [Hosea 4:17.]
We hold you fast as yet. Notwithstanding, I have seen the enemy in disguise as an angel of light, bending over you and talking with you all kinds of falsehoods and theories. You do not believe the messages of truth God has given to His people but you have been walking in your own counsel. Yet the Lord has given you a chance as He did Judas. You will now in your present theories be weaving into every mind as secretly as possible your falsehoods against the truth. You are not to be considered [any] longer a believer in the faith that has made us as a people what we are.
You are losing all faith in present truth. You say you are loyal, but this is a falsehood. You act contrary to the truth. Then can you be surprised that we cannot assimilate with you? The Living Temple is a mild expression of your true bearings. You do not understand the truth. You have followed the lead of John Kellogg when I have told you the medical missionary work (as it is termed) in many things is far below that which its name implies. You are a dupe of Satan’s lies and yet you are not known as this. Oft times have I seen you linked up with satanic agencies and Satan personified in humanity. He was praising you and extolling you and presenting before you subterfuges—unprincipled workings and deceptive theories. Next I have seen you carrying out the plans of Satan just as you have worked them, and he helped you. When you have opened your eyes and seen where you are, you will be surprised at your infatuation.
Your brethren do not know these things I am writing to you, but they must soon know it all. For the Lord says, “My flock, My beautiful flock, is this man whom I chose as My physician if he would heed My admonitions that have been given him through My chosen messenger. But he has had self-exaltation to do a wonderful thing, to be ambitious, to be as God. He will very soon be greatly humbled unless he will break away from the father of lies and no longer repeat the suggestions of Satan. My flock shall not be spoiled; I will take them out of his hands; I will keep them; I will appoint over them true teachers and faithful physicians. He has made it exceedingly hard for My ministers. He has brought confusion where no difficulties used to be. My vineyard has been neglected. He has worked to discourage them for many years. [Even] when he has for so long a time created dissension and strife by his own crooked course of action and presentations of methods, yet I have given increased light and evidence. But he would not heed or acknowledge Me, and reform. If his way did not succeed he would make a change, but work to the same object in a different way.”
The time is come when many will be deceived by the father of lies, and some strange, principal theories will be introduced as precious heavenly truth when it is the subtleties of corrupting principles working on human minds. In regard to the marriage relation, Satan has fixed up his deceptive theories. It is spiritualizing. The theories are destructive to truth, destructive to holiness, and originated by the devil.
Lt 53, 1903
Physicians and Managers of Our Medical Work
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 15, 1903
To the physicians and managers of our medical work,—
I address you as men upon whom the Lord has bestowed great blessings. I must tell you that some of your business transactions are not pleasing to God. Some of your ways of working He cannot endorse. In order to secure advantages for certain lines of work, unsanctified, ambitious projects have been resorted to. But the carrying out of these projects will bring a heavy retribution to those responsible for them.
The Lord calls upon you to work in holy, upright lines, in every transaction following the pure, elevated principles given in the Word of God. No business that will misrepresent God and harm His people will bring a particle of honor to you or to the cause which you love. The less you have to do with plans and documents drawn up in accordance with the policy of lawyers, the better it will be for you.
In business transactions you have complied with the customs of the lawyers whom you have employed, arranging matters in a way that you think will guard the work in which you are engaged against the possibilities and probabilities that might occur. Ought you to be surprised, then, that the watchmen that God has placed on the walls of Zion should also endeavor to fulfil their God-given responsibility, seeking to make all pertaining to our institutions perfectly secure? The word was spoken by my Instructor: “God’s watchmen, who should have been wide awake, who should have understood the condition of our institutions, have been blind as to how things were being carried on by our medical missionary workers in responsible places.”
God calls upon our pastors and teachers to be wide awake and not stand as blind watchmen. Let them obtain from Christ the eyesalve that will enable them to see all things clearly. Then let them examine the foundation timbers of our institutions. Not all pertaining to our work is being carried forward in an elevated, upright way. God wants His people to have a clear understanding of all the important transactions pertaining to His cause, that they may know that they are following a course that He can approve.
Business transactions should not be veiled with so many technicalities that the real bearing of the agreement is not clearly understood. For years one thing after another has been brought into the Medical Missionary Association—business propositions that are received as fair and just, but which are not. These propositions may prove to be a pit of disappointment for certain ones who did not know that there was the least danger.
There certainly must be a careful investigation of the foundation of our institutions, especially of the sanitariums. We must not stand by any unfair proposition or allow advantage to be taken of the ones whose money is received in our institutions. Better far would it be to suffer disappointment in our plans than to have means to use as we please and lose the crown of the overcomer. Better far the cross and shattered hopes than to sit with princes and forfeit heaven. “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.]
We seemed to be assembled in a meeting. Our Instructor looked upon the doctors present, and said, You are not all faithful stewards, else there would have been brought into the medical missionary work only that which will build up its reputation, only that which is in harmony with its high title. Those who have the living truth in their hearts will not accept some of the documents which you have approved. Long documents, filled with blind specifications and technical conditions, may serve to place men where, if they wish to take unfair advantage, they can do a work that God cannot approve. These papers may be worded so as to be difficult of understanding, and the common people may be deceived. It may appear that provisions have been made to secure from loss those of whom means are solicited, while at the same time the means may be bound up in such a way that it cannot be obtained without great difficulty.
You have been very particular to have things securely bound about, so that no undue advantage should be taken of the institution. Is it not right that those who in good faith place their means in the institution should have just as good security on their side, that no unfair advantage can be taken of them?
The Word of the Lord is our guide under all circumstances. It points out our duty to God and to our fellow men. It is the standard for all. It is perfectly adapted to our necessities. It is the light placed in our hands to guide us to the heavenly home. It tells us that in order to be heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, we must obey the commands that God has given. Any group of men, whatever their standing or position, however high their profession of godliness, who follow practices that God disallows, cannot be approved of heaven. The Lord cannot accept the service of those who are grasping and selfish in their dealings, like men of the world who have no acquaintance with the things of God.
The Lord’s people are not to follow the customs of worldly men, taking advantage of circumstances to gain advantage for themselves or for the work which they represent. Neither are they to follow an unfair course of action. Christ said: “Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers. … Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge; ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.” [Luke 11:46, 52.]
God says to every minister of the gospel, to every medical missionary worker, to every other worker in His cause, Take your stand on the elevated platform of truth and justice. God will not serve with any man who draws threads of selfishness and unfairness into the web, by his example leading others astray. Our ministers and doctors are to put on the garment of Christ’s righteousness. They are to wash their robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb.
He who has lost his sensitiveness of character is in danger of losing his soul, and with it an eternity of joy. God will not be trifled with. He will not sanction the least approach to underhand dealing to secure advantage for any branch of His work. The actions of our medical missionaries are to be as clear as the day. These workers are to do all in their power to proclaim the gospel message. They are not, by following a misleading, scheming course, to assure the worldly man that under certain circumstances his course of unjust dealing is justifiable and advisable. Compliance with customs founded on a false basis is to be shunned by every medical missionary.
We are preparing for a life that measures with the life of God. Never should a Seventh-day Adventist medical missionary do anything that will dishonor the name that he bears. Every medical missionary is to show to the world, to lawyers, to doctors, to the church, and to the gospel ministry that he is a Christian, bound by a solemn covenant to be upright in word and action, to follow a course free from all deception and subterfuge. His life is to be holy. He is to respect his God-given talents, using them in a way that will honor the One who gave His life to redeem humanity from all iniquity and to purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. There must be in his life no taint of dishonesty, no perversion of the holy principles of truth.
In the world men are tried by the standard of wealth and position. Men worship men who meet this standard. But is this the true standard of character? No, no. It is not riches, but purity of heart and life, that will gain for human beings entrance into the city of God.
To all our medical missionary workers the Lord says, Lift up the standard of truth higher and still higher. Hold fast to your integrity. Let your lives bear a good report regarding your Saviour’s keeping power. Keep no position at the expense of conscience. Smile not at falsehood. Consent not to any dishonest practice. Say to the tempted, Get thee behind me, Satan; and say it with so much meaning, so much decision, that he will see that you have emptied your soul of every falsehood. Do not rest satisfied until you are a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Go to the Word of God to find out your duty as medical missionaries, else you are not worthy of the name. You are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] Those who combine these three essentials are on safe ground.
Let every minister, every doctor, every medical missionary worker remember that he is not to put his conscience to the rack to favor any business transaction that is not straightforward on the part of any man. Whatever his calling or profession, a man is not a Christian unless he follows the example of Christ, by His grace holding fast to his integrity. He who works for God is to be filled with a spirit of love and humility, not of boasting and parade. His life is to show that he has accepted the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
One is our Master, even Christ. We have pledged ourselves to live to His name’s glory. God grant that the veil that separates us from Him may be drawn aside, and that we may accept Him as our Companion and Teacher. We are not to look upon ourselves as gods, able to carry out our own will, our own devising. We are to remember that in order to be successful in our work, we must be sustained by God, we must have the power that Christ gives to all who believe in Him—the power to become sons of God. We are faithfully to discharge the duties enjoined on us in the Word of God, shunning everything that would make us in character like the archdeceiver.
Lt 54, 1903
Those in Council at Battle Creek, Michigan
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 16, 1903
To those in council at Battle Creek, Michigan
Dear Brethren,—
The members of the Medical Missionary and Benevolent Association and the responsible men of the General Conference are now to act in concert in regard to the work to be carried on. All must now awake and seek the Lord, lest the powers of the enemy shall obtain the victory. There are much greater depths of spiritual truth to be reached by experience. Christ will lead us to higher and still higher planes, where spiritual perception and spiritual action shall enter into unquestionable discoveries, and where the sacred truths of the gospel shall be understood in all their bearings.
As God’s Word is received as food for the soul, the character in spiritual lines will correspond to the truths of the gospel that have been eaten and digested. Thus our spiritual strength will be refreshed as we become partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. The nutritious properties of the heavenly food may be compared with the strength-restoring properties of the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. Seek for unity, and seek it in faith. Faith we must have, in order that we may walk by faith.
My mind is deeply impressed by the Spirit of God. Instruction is given to me in clear lines. Our work is not left in the hands of finite men. God rules, and He will turn and overturn. He will not allow His work to be carried forward as it has been. His medical missionary work is not to be ruled, controlled, and molded by one man, as for some years it certainly has been. The exercise of such a power, if continued, will mar the work and will be the certain ruin of the man exercising control. God will work with the men entrusted with large responsibility, if they will take the Lord’s way as humble, obedient servants, waiting wholly upon Him. But if any man sets himself up as being above God, and takes the work under his finite supervision, the watchmen standing on the walls of Zion must discern the danger and take heroic action to save the man and the cause.
Yesterday I read the following incident: “A notable painter was adorning the frescoes in the dome of a cathedral. When a certain portion of his work was done, he stepped backward upon the small scaffold of planks on which he stood to admire the effect of his skilful craft. Suddenly a comrade who was with him rushed forward to the picture and with the brush in his hand smeared and spoiled the delicate work so painfully accomplished. Rushing forward, the artist cried angrily, ‘What is that for?’ ‘Look,’ said his companion, ‘one more step backward, and you would have fallen, bruised and mangled on the pavement far below.’” The artist was thankful that his life was spared. Will our brethren in peril consent to be saved from the dangers they are in?
In no case does God require His servants to bear burdens that He has not given them. He does not require them to gather to themselves more responsibilities than they can patiently and successfully carry. Those professing Christians who do this dishonor the name they bear and lower the standard of Christianity.
By the managers of the Sanitarium, and the leaders in the medical missionary work, there has been a binding up with the world, which has led to entanglement. There has been much working upon a wrong policy. One man has embraced so many responsibilities that it is impossible for him to give to each the proper thought that a careful performance of the Lord’s work requires. Men who will carry forward in right lines the work for this time should rally around the leaders of the work, sharing the responsibilities that they are now carrying, and thus encouraging them to stand as counsellors with their brethren, bringing all their plans before their brethren for consideration. Whenever one man devises plans and seeks to carry them out in a manner so determined that his work savors of oppression, there is need of bringing into connection with him other minds that will keep uplifted the high standard suggested by the name we bear.
Many plans have been devised that God has not ordained. The root from which these plans have sprung is the mind of finite man. God’s watchmen have been blind. They should have been wide awake to see that one man’s mind, one man’s judgment was becoming a power that God could not and would not endorse. To invest one man or a few men with so much power and responsibility is not in accordance with God’s way of working.
There must be a reorganization. Supreme power must not be vested in a group of men connected with a few large institutions. At the General Conference of 1901 the light was given, Divide the General Conference into Union Conferences. Let there be fewer responsibilities centered in one place.
Let the work of printing our publications be divided.
The principles that apply to the publishing work apply also to the sanitarium work. Students should not be crowded into Battle Creek to receive an education in medical missionary lines. It is not best to encourage the gathering together in one institution of so large a company of people as have been gathered together in the Battle Creek Sanitarium. Let medical missionary plants be made in many places.
The youth who desire to become medical missionaries should not be brought in large numbers to Battle Creek. Provision should be made that they may receive an education out of and away from Battle Creek, in places where there is a different religious atmosphere. By fire the Lord removed the great argument in favor of gathering many students to Battle Creek. He swept away the Sanitarium to prevent the carrying out of the idea that Battle Creek was to be the great center for the training of medical students. To carry out this idea would be out of harmony with the work for these last days and with the plans of the Lord.
God works by means of instruments, or second causes. He uses the gospel ministry, medical missionary work, and the publications containing present truth to impress hearts. All are made effectual by means of faith. As the truth is heard or read, the Holy Spirit sends it home to those who hear and read with an earnest desire to know what is right. The gospel ministry, medical missionary work, and our publications are God’s agencies. One is not to supersede the other. But you have sought to make the medical missionary work the whole body instead of the arm and hand.
Let the living gospel be taught in our schools. Let students be educated in its principles, that they may be prepared to impart the truth to others. Let them learn to minister to the spiritual and physical needs of those whom they will meet in their work. By the ministry of the Word, the gospel is preached: by medical missionary work, the gospel is practiced. The gospel is bound up with medical missionary work. Neither is to stand alone, bound up in itself. The workers in each are to labor unselfishly and unitedly, striving to save sinners.
Lt 55, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 15, 1903
Dr. J. H. Kellogg
My dear brother,—
I wish to write you some things that are greatly burdening my mind. I could not speak of your dangers in open conference. And I can not now say all that I have to say. Three times during the conference, after passing sleepless nights, I decided to present some things, not all, to the conference and to you in as careful a manner as possible; but when it came to the time to speak, I could not say what I had thought I must say, because I feared that some souls would not understand, and therefore might stumble over what I would have said. Some would have talked with one another unwisely in regard to things that they could not understand and that I had not spoken of. I must now write to you; for I dare not keep silent any longer. You should do earnest work to make matters plain and straight and to place the Sanitarium in the clear, safe position where it belongs. I hope and pray that you will do thorough, faithful work in this matter.
What can I say that will in any way affect you? In some respects you have been pursuing a strange course during the last two years. This cannot continue. You must not longer remain in the attitude in which you have been standing. The Lord will not again send you such a message as He sent you before the General Conference of 1901. What a strange position I was placed in at that meeting! I was bidden to bear a public testimony that would show the churches where they had made their mistake and lead them to appreciate your value and the good you had done. You had received messages showing where you had erred.
If at that meeting you had fallen on the rock and been broken, you would since that time have had a much deeper spiritual experience. But since that Conference things have continually been occurring that show that your mind is far from being free from evil. Had you obtained that deep religious experience that every medical missionary should have, you would have followed a course different from the course that you have followed.
Yesterday I read the following incident: “A notable painter was adorning the frescoes in the dome of a cathedral. When a certain portion of his work was done, he stepped backward foot by foot upon the small scaffold of planks on which he stood to admire the effect of his skilful craft. Suddenly a comrade who was with him rushed forward to the picture and with the brush in his hand smeared and spoiled the delicate work so painfully accomplished. Rushing forward, the artist cried angrily, ‘What is that for?’ ‘Look,’ said his companion, ‘one more step backward, and you would have fallen, bruised and mangled, on the pavement far below.’”
This artist was proud of his work far more justly than you can be proud of your work since the last General Conference in Battle Creek. Upon reflection, tracing your work since that Conference, can you look up to heaven, and say, “It is well with my soul”? In many of your ways God takes no pleasure. He has been displeased with those developments in your character which have led you, in word and act, to misrepresent His character. These developments in your character have made you subject to the temptations of Satan. Your food business, which has been your great pride, has also been your snare. God takes no delight in many of your plans and movements regarding the food business.
It has not been well for your own sake nor for Christ’s sake that the line of work with which you are connected should bear so much of your individual impress. Were you worked wholly by the Spirit of God, there would be a showing altogether different from that which now exists. If you continue to weave yourself into the work, you will have less and less of the companionship of Christ. I greatly desire that your soul shall be saved. You should no longer feel that your individual judgment is to be the criterion by which others are to be guided in carrying forward the medical missionary work. It has been your desire to have this work ever carried on as a great whole, but this is not the way of the Lord.
There must be a reorganization. Supreme power must not be vested in a group of men connected with a few large institutions. At the General Conference of 1901 the light was given, Divide the General Conference into Union Conferences. Let there be fewer responsibilities centered in one place. Let the work of printing our publications be divided.
The principles that apply to the publishing work apply also to the sanitarium work. Students should not be crowded into Battle Creek to receive an education in medical missionary lines. It is not best to gather together in one institution so large a company of people as have been gathered together in the Battle Creek Sanitarium. Let medical missionary plants be made in many places.
The youth who desire to become medical missionaries should not be brought in large numbers to Battle Creek. Provision should be made that they may receive an education out of and away from Battle Creek, in places where there is a different religious atmosphere. By fire the Lord removed the great argument in favor of gathering many students to Battle Creek. He swept away the Sanitarium to prevent the carrying out of the idea that Battle Creek was to be the great center for the training of medical students. To carry out this idea would be out of harmony with the work for these last days and with the plans of the Lord.
God works by means of instruments, or second causes. He uses the gospel ministry, medical missionary work, and the publications containing present truth to impress hearts. All are made effectual by means of faith. As the truth is heard or read, the Holy Spirit sends it home to those who hear and read with an earnest desire to know what is right. The gospel ministry, medical missionary work, and our publications are God’s agencies. One is not to supersede the other. But you have sought to make the medical missionary work the whole body instead of the arm and the hand.
Let the living gospel be taught in our schools. Let students be educated in its principles, that they may be prepared to impart the truth to others. Let them learn to minister to the spiritual and physical needs of those whom they will meet in their work. By the ministry of the Word the gospel is preached; by medical missionary work the gospel is practiced. The gospel is bound up with medical missionary work. Neither is to stand alone, bound up in itself. The workers in each are to labor unselfishly and unitedly, striving to save sinners.
Your religious teachings are not to be depended on or accepted as a “Thus saith the Lord.” It has been unwise for the people to rely upon you as they have done; for you are not a safe guide in spiritual matters. You have planned too much labor and responsibility for yourself in endeavoring to grasp and direct the whole medical missionary work. You must not continue to do this; for God forbids it. The work must be set in order, after the divine similitude.
My brother, I beseech you to give heed to the messages that for many years have been coming to you, admonishing you to walk and work in the counsel of God. Let Him be your fear and let Him be your dread. Will you not take time to stop to consider that by your ambitious course you are surely not exalting the medical missionary work? Will you dishonor this work by leaving your imperfect human mold upon it?
Some feel that those who question your judgment and your plans should be severely reproved. This is not right. You have so long supposed that it is your place to carry the responsibility of many things and mold them largely according to your own judgment, that you have become lifted up. I greatly desire that you shall understand your danger. The Lord would have no man presume to exercise the power and the responsibility that you are assuming, by bringing the various interests of the medical work under your personal supervision, as if you owned the work.
The enemy is frequently working your mind. He has endeavored to implant in your mind the same desires that he cherished when in the heavenly courts he occupied the position of covering cherub. Christ is the express image of His Father’s person, and the angels could see in the Son a perfect representation of God. Lucifer coveted the honor and glory given to Christ. He became so self-exalted that he supposed that he could do anything he desired to do because of his high position as covering cherub, and he tried to obtain for himself the position given to Christ. But Lucifer fell. He was cast out of heaven; and now he works on human minds, tempting them to follow in his footsteps. He strives to fill minds with feelings of self-exaltation and to lead them to dishonor God by turning from their allegiance to the truth and inventing many things not after God’s order.
O why did you not at the last General Conference at Battle Creek humble your heart and heed the admonitions of God, putting aside your way for God’s way? Does not the sweeping away of the Sanitarium by fire mean much to you? Such a manifest token of God’s displeasure should lead you to most earnest self-examination. In this God has given you an admonition in order that every soul connected with the Sanitarium work may take heed to this expression of His reproof. Study to find out why this punishment has come. Allow not this rebuke to pass by unheeded, lest it be followed by still sterner punishment. Discern wherein you have departed from God. Be zealous, and repent.
I say to you as a messenger from God that the things which belong to your peace are strangely neglected. They are pushed from their proper place. Are you not leading many astray by your example? You have no right to load yourself down with so many burdens. You have no right to become absorbed in so many schemes, some of which should never see the light of day. A man for whom the Lord has done so much should honor Him in every word and act. All his transactions should be pure, considerate, and just. He should not do or say anything that he will be loath to meet when he stands before the Judge of all the earth.
You have wrapped yourself about with many business entanglements and objectionable plans. You have formed plan after plan, reaching further and still further. The ends of the earth seem not too remote for you to reach. But, my brother, there is a work for you to do between God and your own soul. Men have looked to you for religious guidance and for a correct example. Does your development of character make you a safe guide? God expects you to be strict and particular in all business matters, not following the maxims of the world, not swayed by cupidity. But if you follow the policy that you are tempted to follow, you will be led to dismiss the Word of God from your councils. Unless you make a decided change, the word of the Judge of all the earth to you, in the last great day, will be, “Weighed in the balances, and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.]
Will you continue to follow the strange course in which you have been pressing on, driving and rushing matters as you have done? You need to move more steadily. Your lips and your tongue need to be sanctified, that you may make correct statements only. You need to ponder your ways, and to remember that God’s servants are to use in His service only the sacred fire of His own kindling.
Those who have linked up their interests with you have not always been faithful to tell you the truth. There are those who have done you an injury by receiving your exaggerated statements and by failing to speak words of caution. You may be tempted, because of what I say to you, to present me in a most unfavorable light to those whom you are leading. Yet I dare not let you go further in your strange course without speaking to you in warning. Will you not make a determined effort to break the spell that is upon you? You have been binding yourself up with the great deceiver. Can it be possible that you do not understand this? Can it be possible that you do not discern your danger? Will your associates continue to be silent in regard to your strange devisings, allowing many things to pass unquestioned?
What has been done to you, that you should think to revenge yourself to doing that which will ruin your soul? What excuse can you give to God for working out Satan’s plans? Will it pay to follow the course that you are planning to pursue? Will it gain for you the welcome, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:23.]
Throughout every department of His work God will vindicate His honor, His righteousness. Will you not stop right where you are, and consider diligently your ways? The Lord cannot endorse your spirit or your course of action. His hand is on the lever. Your plans are not His plans. Do not make others err by leading them to harmonize with your ideas and carry out your plans for the supremacy. Now is your time to repent. Lose not the opportunity. Cherish principles of the purest integrity. Then your spirit will change. You will be upright in your dealings with your fellow men because you are upright in your dealings with God.
My brother, do not feel that it is below your dignity to make a decided change. You must place yourself at the feet of Christ as a learner, else you will surely fail of obtaining the overcomer’s reward. Lay off your commanding, kingly authority, and become one of God’s little children. Until you are willing to study and obey God’s will, you will be overcome by temptations and led to do strange things, which will disqualify you for filling a position of influence. Will you not repent and be converted? Will you not act every moment with the realization that you are under the divine scrutiny? Will you not make God your companion in all your work? His holiness, His justice, His truth should purify your words and actions.
You need to stop and consider that there is a God. He has spoken good in your behalf, and He will be much displeased if you deal unjustly with His heritage. He calls upon you to turn to Him with full purpose of heart. Pray, for your soul’s sake, pray; for you have been so many times self-deceived and led by deceptive influences, that you are tempted to regard with favor those who will flatter and extol you and with disfavor those who would point out your errors and dangers. Many times you have almost gone over to the wrong side; but before the throne has stood your Saviour, the prints of the nails in His hands, interceding in your behalf. Pray for yourself, in the name of Christ. Pray earnestly, fervently, sincerely. I hope that your life may be spared and that you may give yourself wholly to repentance. Come to the Lord, and surrender all to Him. You must, or you will be taken captive by the enemy.
I cannot but write these words; for One of the highest authority has made this appeal to you.
Lt 56, 1903
White, J. E.
Des Moines, Iowa
May, 1901
Dear Son Edson,—
I speak to you because I feel an intense interest in the Southern field. That neglected vineyard of the Lord must be cultivated. The fields in the South need faithful, persevering workers, not merely preachers, but those who can minister. It is not depth of reasoning that is to be productive of the most good; the world by human wisdom knew not God, but holy men spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
No amount of reasoning or explanation can tell the whys and wherefores of the creation of the world. It is to be understood by faith in the great creative power. By faith we must believe in the mighty-working creative power of God through Jesus Christ. “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (are not present to the eye). [Hebrews 11:3.] This is a matter that can be stated, but mere reasoning will never convince one of the truth of the statement. Reasoning we must have. It is one of the great masterly talents entrusted to the human agent and is a great advantage at every step we advance from earth to heaven. The faculty of reasoning, trained and cultivated as a precious entrusted gift, will be taken to heaven with all its improvements and sanctified abilities, to be perfected more and more in the heavenly school above.
Paul reasoned out of the Scriptures. Jesus reasoned with His hearers out of the Scriptures. “For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” “As it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” [1 Corinthians 1:21; 2:9, 10.]
This is the faith, that although we do not see, we believe His Word and sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him. He speaks as One having authority—“It is written.” He Himself was the Author. The motive power of the gospel is the science of penitence, love, faith, prayer, obedience, hope, and the joy of Christ in the human soul.
The Word
The possession of the Word is a talent, a treasure house of knowledge; and in all who believe, it creates a responsibility to impart. Receive the seed in good soil, and then let it spring up, first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear, then the harvest. You may have much work before you, but go no faster than you can move solidly. Teach the Word in the very simplest way possible. You will need to illustrate to the colored people with cheap pictures. This will be a necessity. If they had been educated to read, then the illustrations would not be necessary. May the Lord help you, my son, to walk and work, trusting in Jesus Christ.
But the fact must be understood that the Scriptures do not depend upon a process of reasoning in bringing souls from darkness to light, from sin to repentance, but it is faith that accepts the divine, God-given testimony that the Scripture is the great power of God expressed. Many things are affirmed. (John 1:9[-12]): “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him (by faith as the Son of God), to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.”
Believers are to be developed. This is the mission of our publishing work. There is much to be done in this line, especially in some parts of the country. The matter—Bible truth—must go forth as a light that burneth. Gather up the rays of light, put the truth in its simplicity, and carry on your publishing in the Southern field as the ignorance of the people demands. You have the facilities and therefore can do this. It needs talent that has been engaged in making books. You understand this. Brother Palmer has a quick mind. You know what you need to meet high and low. Well, take hold like men that have souls before you to save, and God will help you.
I will write you this before I leave Battle Creek. The Lord give you wisdom and great grace is my prayer.
Edson White, I must urge you to be exceedingly cautious. You have men of capability, men to plan. The Lord has entrusted to them talents. If they will honor God, God will honor them. Now work in the name of the Lord God of Israel. I speak to these men my message, Come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Who is the mighty Satan? He works with all his determined interest. Now work, now pray, now watch and work. Souls are to be saved. You cannot afford to be trammeled as you have been by any printing plant. It has been used as God never desired it. God will not have ways and openings closed because selfishness enters, and men devise and plan without seeking counsel of God.
In regard to the printing matter in the plant that has already been established to handle publications in a limited manner, if the publishing house will give you any fair show, take over the books, do with them all you possibly can, whether you gain a dollar’s advantage or not, and leave your endeavors with the Lord to help you dispose of these books. You will not meet with a great loss, but as you have not yet even a beginning to work with, you must in this taking-over business count the cost, for you are in no condition to waste anything. You must seek the Lord in prayer. Tell the Lord all about your purposes. Give your whole hearts—Brother Palmer, yourself, and all connected with you—to the Lord with kindly hearts. Bring all tenderness and compassion into your work. Be true, be clean in principle. You cannot afford to saddle on you a debt, unless your chances are favorable to meet it. Watch and pray. You cannot depend on human wisdom. God will lead you if you fully trust in Him. He will never leave nor forsake a soul who trusts in Him.
Lt 58, 1903
Brethren in Council at Battle Creek
St. Helena, California
April 17, 1903
To our brethren in council at Battle Creek,—
Some way must be devised in which our medical institutions shall be helped. According to the light given me, the Lord will institute ways and means by which the Battle Creek Sanitarium can be helped. When our watchmen shall recover from their blindness and reason from cause to effect, God will help them to devise ways and means for the relief of our medical institutions.
If we put our trust in the Lord, if we walk in His ways, the Battle Creek Sanitarium can be placed on vantage ground. When the Sanitarium is placed on its proper foundation; when our people can see that it stands as when first established; when they can understand that the institution belongs to the work of the Lord, and can see that no one man is to have control of everything in it; then God will help them all to take hold with courage to build it up.
Our leading brethren, the men in leading positions, are to examine the standing of the Battle Creek Sanitarium, to see whether the God of heaven can take control of it. When, by faithful guardians, it is placed in a position where He can control it, let me tell you that God will see that it is sustained.
God wants His people to place their feet on the eternal Rock. The money that we have is the Lord’s money; and the buildings that we erect with this money, for His work, are to stand as His property. He calls upon those who have received the truth not to quarrel with their brethren, but to stand shoulder to shoulder, to build up, not to destroy.
The light that God has given me is that there are proper ways that the Conference shall devise to help the Sanitarium in Battle Creek. I wish that a portion of the work of this institution had been taken elsewhere. But the Sanitarium has been erected in Battle Creek, and it must be helped. God will institute ways and means by which it can be helped. But He does not wish His people to invest their money in bonds.
One night it seemed to me that we were assembled in council with the leaders of the medical work at Battle Creek. One of authority rose and holding up a long paper read from it many things that perplexed me. Neither I nor many others could discern the meaning of that which He read. Then He who read from this paper said: “These are men who have allowed this paper to pass as a legal piece of business, as a security for the issuing of bonds to secure money. That long list of conditions is not necessary, but they show unsafety for those who invest their means.”
This is not the kind of work that should be placed before those who have the utmost confidence in the men bearing responsibilities, supposing them to be faithful, intelligent guardians of the people. Many things will be managed after this same order unless a reorganization shall take place.
There are those who will have nothing to do with the bonds issued, but there are many who will accept them without criticism, because they have confidence in the medical missionary association as being loyal to the high principles that it advocates. They will not question the things that they cannot understand, because they have faith in the original Seventh-day Adventist Medical Missionary Association.
No document should be accepted which is so worded as to make it possible for the medical missionary workers in office so to manage affairs that injustice will be done to those putting confidence in the Medical Missionary Association. These matters must be carefully examined into by the men in position of responsibility in the Medical Missionary Association and the General Conference. There is a snare in these documents, and I am to say, Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The standing of the Sanitarium and its relation to the cause of God is to be ascertained. Everything regarding its organization is to be closely examined, that Seventh-day Adventists may know the true standing of the institution.
Lt 59, 1903
Jones, A. T.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 19, 1903
Elder A. T. Jones
Dear Brother,
I am sending to you three manuscripts to be read to the brethren assembled at Battle Creek in council. These I desire that you shall read to the brethren when you discern that the time has come. You know my anxiety regarding the work—my desire that everything possible shall be done to establish unity and drive out dissension. We must do all in our power to save Dr. Kellogg and his associates from the result of the mistakes they have made, and to help them to see and understand the way of the Lord.
Last Friday I sent you an article addressed to the physicians and managers of our medical work. I hope that you have already found opportunity to read this. There was also sent an incomplete copy of an article addressed to those in council at Battle Creek. I have added some things to this and now send you a complete copy. Please return to me the one sent Friday.
Today there will be sent to you still another manuscript addressed to the brethren in council at Battle Creek. This follows the other two and should be read at the first favorable opportunity.
I am also sending to you a copy of a letter that I have written to Dr. Kellogg. In it there are very many plain admonitions. Some of these it may be difficult for the doctor to understand. I have not yet sent him a copy of this letter, nor shall I do so at present. My wish is that you shall talk and pray with him, and then read the letter to him when you think that the time has come.
I greatly desire that he shall see his danger and turn to the Lord, for there is peace and power for him if he will walk humbly before God. If he continues to carry things as he has done, his brethren must seek the Lord for wisdom to know how to carry forward his work intelligently, in accordance with the light given in His Word.
I could not speak of his dangers in open conference; for there were some present who would have misunderstood and stumbled, making an unwise use of any statements made that were unfavorable to him. Please read carefully what I have written to him, and take your position wisely as a friend of the medical missionary work who feels a proper burden to see that work put upon a basis that will bear the endorsement of God.
I have been shown that Dr. Kellogg has had papers drawn up by lawyers, the wording of which was such that few would see beneath the surface and discern their final influence upon the work. Neither the managers of the medical work nor their legal counsellor have taken upon them the responsibility of studying in a correct light the wording of the specifications and conditions of these papers. The leaders in the medical missionary work have failed to make sure that the wording of the legal papers pertaining to the business of the Battle Creek Sanitarium is so clear and decided that there is no danger of the property’s being lost to its original owners.
Our Counsellor said to the doctors: “You need to learn to be as true as steel to principle. Watch carefully and truly, and guard your brother, that he shall not sell his birthright in order to carry himself to the highest point of influence.”
Then the Speaker turned His eyes with such a look of sadness and sympathy upon the doctor, and said, “Repent now, while you have opportunity, lest soon you become so laden with business entanglements that you will care little as to what is your record for eternity. You are defrauding your own soul. The business transactions and opportunities which are presented to you are becoming so numerous that they prevent your giving your earnest attention to the momentous concerns of eternity. Only a little longer will mind and body bear the strain that you are imposing on them. You now hold only a fragment of religion. The business transactions that you mingle with your medical missionary work are so great a temptation that you seem to have no power to go from the snare. The name medical missionary can be applied only to a part of your work, but the Lord desires that the sanctified wisdom of heaven should be diffused all through and through your work.
“True godliness is obtained by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. Thus we are made partakers of the divine nature. No enterprise, no devising, that will not bear the signature of heaven will be of the least value in this life or in the life to come. Inquire while you may, Am I not sinning against my own soul and against the God who has done so much for me?”
Brother Jones, study these statements, and read them to Dr. Kellogg if you think best.
Lt 60, 1903
Rice, Brother and Sister [J. D.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 19, 1903
My dear Brother and Sister Rice,—
I am glad you are engaged in the work in Berkeley. The Lord has opened before you a work in that place. He would have you come before the people with His message, relating encouraging experiences and preparing the way for the Lord’s coming. Brother Rice should educate himself to speak right to the point, and not at too great length. Sister Rice can then share the time with him. The Lord has given her a work to do in connection with her husband. She can be a great blessing.
Very many souls are in the darkness of error. There is abundant work for all who know the truth. Approach the people in a persuasive, kindly manner, full of cheerfulness and love for Christ. Christ is ever passing by with grace and power to enable you to present the gospel of salvation, which will bring souls out of the darkness of unbelief into His marvelous light. Reach out after the souls ready to perish. Call the attention of the people to the “Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]
No human tongue can express the preciousness of the ministration of the Word and the Holy Spirit. No human expression can portray to the finite mind the value of understanding, and by living faith receiving the blessing that is given as Jesus of Nazareth passes by. Many have a deep sense of need—a need that earthly riches or pleasures cannot supply; but they know not how to receive that for which they are longing.
The gospel of Christ is from beginning to end the gospel of saving grace. It is a distinctive and controlling idea. It will be a help to the needy, light for the eyes that are blind to the truth, and a guide to souls seeking for the true foundation. Full and everlasting salvation is within the reach of every soul. Christ is waiting and longing to speak pardon and impart the freely offered grace. He is watching and waiting, saying as He said to the blind man at the gate of Jericho: “What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?” [Mark 10:51.] “I will take away thy sins; I will wash you in My blood.”
In all the highways of life there are souls to be saved. The blind are groping in darkness. Give them the light, and God will bless you as His laborers.
Since coming home, I have had nervous prostration, and even today have been very weak, but I thought I would write to you not to be discouraged. God will help you in your efforts to save the lost.
In love.
Lt 61, 1903
Kellogg, M. G.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 18, 1903
Previously unpublished.
M. G. Kellogg
Dear Brother Kellogg,
Sara told me that you called yesterday while I was lying down. I am sorry that I did not see you.
She tells me that no work has been assigned to you. I am sorry for this, but I shall not let the matter rest as it is.
Just now I am so weak and prostrated that I can do but little. I have been writing some things for the Council at Battle Creek and have also written some letters. At the Conference it was necessary for me to preserve my strength for important matters that I alone could handle.
Have courage in the Lord, my brother, and do not, I entreat of you, lose faith. Some work will open up for you. You could do evangelistic work in San Francisco or in other places. You can speak to the people. Let your talks be short and frequent. Do not speak of things that they cannot understand. Give them the simple truths of the Bible, and the Lord will bless and strengthen you.
I will do something for you as soon as I am able. I will lay your case before the brethren. In those great cities there is surely something you can do, or the Lord will open some other door for you. Did not your brother John have some suggestion for your work?
You are having a trying experience with your eyesight. But looking unto Christ, believing in Him who is the Light of the world, will bring you comfort and joy and peace. If today Christ were among us, as when He, the great Medical Missionary, walked the earth, you would go to Him for comfort and healing. Today no curious multitudes flock to the desert places to see and hear the Christ. His voice is not heard in the busy streets. No cry is heard from the wayside, “Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.” [Luke 18:37.] But this word is true to us today. He walks unseen through our streets. We are to realize that Christ is in our world, a practical Worker. With messages of mercy, He comes to the homes of those who will receive Him. Thank God, He stands ready to be found of every one who humbly and earnestly seeks Him. He will breathe the Living Spirit into every hungry heart.
Be of good courage in the Lord, my brother. Wait patiently, and the Lord will open the way before you. I send encouraging words to your wife and her mother. Do not despond, but hope in the Lord. I am thinking of you, and I will pray for you all, as well as for myself.
In faith, hope, and courage, I write these words to you. May the Lord be your Helper and your Strength is my prayer.
Lt 62, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 21, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
I have a deep interest in you and in your family, and I pray for the prosperity of your work. I have words to write to you cautioning you about employing Sister Tuxford in a position where she might unconsciously exert an influence to lower the standard and introduce rich, unhealthful dishes and expensive provisions into your vegetarian restaurant. When I first heard that Sister Tuxford was connected with you in your work in the restaurant, I was glad. In the past she had given as an excuse for not being a thorough-going health reformer the reason that she could not cook, as she otherwise would, on account of her mother’s being unable, because of her age and feebleness, to make a change in her diet. This reason no longer exists, and I hoped that Sister Tuxford would make a thorough change in her way of cooking and eating.
Should her advice be followed as to the food that should be provided for those who patronize the restaurant, there is danger that the restaurant will become a consumer instead of a producer. When it is seen that an enterprise is running behind, a change should be made so that money enough will be brought in to cover expenses. If this cannot be done, it would be better for the enterprise to be closed.
Be very careful that unhealthful, rich preparations of food are not presented as a sample of health-reform cooking.
You have said that you are a dyspeptic. I see no reason why you should be thus, if your preparations of food are wholesome and if you eat at the right hours. I ask you to look carefully into these matters. I appreciate you most highly, my dear brother and sister. But I must tell you that you have lessons to learn in regard to your eating that you have not yet learned. I advise you to study closely into these things, and then give the stomach the best of care. For thirty-five years I have made it a practice to eat only two meals a day. Occasionally when travelling, I have eaten irregular meals, when I have been thrown out of line by not being able to get my meals at the regular time. I am seventy-five years old; but I do as much writing as I ever did. My digestion is good, and my brain is clear.
Our fare is simple and wholesome. We have on our table no butter, no meat, no cheese, no greasy mixtures of food. For some months a young man who was an unbeliever, and who had eaten meat all his life, boarded with us. We made no change in our diet on his account; and while he stayed with us he gained about twenty pounds. The food which we provided was far better for him than that to which he had been accustomed. All who sit at my table express themselves as being well satisfied with the food provided.
Both you and Sister Burden need to be careful. God will help you to do the work He has given you. But the starting and conducting [of] restaurants to provide food for the public is not your special work. You have a work of soul-saving to do. In your work in connection with the restaurant, have you been able to bring souls to a knowledge of the truth? God would have you stationed where the influence of every one in your family will be exerted on the side of soul-saving. I do not want your earnest efforts to be lost. I do not want you to be weighed in the balances and found wanting. I entreat you and the other members of your family not to follow the example of any one who in Christian experience is a short pattern. In no case are you to measure yourselves by the world or by the opinions of men. Neither are you to place yourselves where you are so tied up that you can not give yourselves to the work of saving the souls ready to perish. It has been my thought that you could do a good and acceptable work in connection with the Sanitarium at Wahroonga.
In regard to the health food work, I will say that I have received no light that would warrant the establishment of a health food factory in or near Sydney.
Lt 63, 1903
Brethren at the Medical Missionary Council
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 19, 1903
To our brethren at the Medical Missionary Council,—
I speak to our leading brethren, to our ministers, and especially to our physicians. Just as long as you allow pride to dwell in your hearts, so long will you lack power in your work. For years a wrong spirit has been cherished, a spirit of pride, a desire for pre-eminence. In this Satan is served, and God is dishonored. The Lord calls for a decided reformation. And when a soul is truly reconverted, let him be rebaptized. Let him renew his covenant with God, and God will renew His covenant with him. My brethren, show true repentance for departure from God. Let angels and men see that there is forgiveness of sin with God. Extraordinary power from God must take hold of Seventh-day Adventist churches. Reconversion must take place among the members, that as God’s witnesses they may testify to the authoritative power of the truth that sanctifies the soul. Renewed, purified, sanctified, the church must be, else the wrath of God will fall upon them with much greater power than upon those who have never professed to be saints.
Those who are sanctified through the truth will show that the truth has worked a reformation in their lives, that it is preparing them for translation into the heavenly world. But so long as pride and envy and evil surmising predominate in the life, Christ does not rule in the heart. His love is not in the soul. In the lives of those who are partakers of the divine nature there is a crucifixion of the haughty, self-sufficient spirit that leads to self-exaltation. In its place the Spirit of Christ abides, and in the life the fruits of the Spirit appear. Having the mind of Christ, His followers reveal the graces of His character.
Nothing short of this will make men acceptable to God. Nothing short of this will give them the pure, holy character that those must have who are admitted to heaven. As soon as a man puts on Christ, an evidence of the change wrought in him is seen in spirit and word and act. A heavenly atmosphere surrounds his soul; for Christ is abiding within.
“Verily, verily I say unto you,” Christ declared, “he that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” [John 6:47.] O how few there are who reveal in their lives the principles of this life! They profess to believe the most sacred truth ever given to mortals, but in their lives they dishonor God. “He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.” [Verses 54-57.]
Do you believe these wonderful statements? Do you receive the words of Christ? I tell you that when in truth you receive them, you will practice the truth in accordance with the teachings of Christ. But as surely as you do not avail yourselves of the privileges presented in these words, so surely will you misrepresent Christ by a half-hearted religious life. So surely you will set before the youth you are educating an example that will not be safe for them to follow, and you will bear the condemnation of their unchristlikeness.
My soul is burdened day and night; for I fear that I have not been as explicit as I should have been. In the night season I pray, “Lord, help me; Lord, teach me. Have compassion on the sheep and the lambs of Thy pasture. Abandon not the unsanctified, unholy, professing Christians in Thy church to their own perverted, corrupt way.”
A few nights since, I dreamed that I was praying in a meeting. O how earnestly my heart was drawn out in supplication! “Lord,” I pleaded, “let not this people claiming to believe so sacred a truth follow on in their mistaken ideas until their names are blotted out of the book of life and recorded among the names of the unjust. Help them to see that by their unlikeness to Christ they are greatly dishonoring the Lord.”
I call upon the people of God to awake to a realization that their condition is plainly marked out in the message to the Laodicean church. Those who are striving to overcome will while on this earth be pursued by satanic agencies. The enemy will tempt them to corrupt the principles that they must maintain if they would reach the high standard that God has set before them. We can overcome only in the way in which Christ overcame—by whole-hearted obedience to God. Real virtue of character cannot, will not, act by halves. The Christian graces, all cherished, form a beautiful, symmetrical character. True religion is obedience to all the commandments of God. Obedience brings salvation; disobedience, ruin.
It pays to examine the whole conduct of the life. What manifestation do we give our fellow men as God’s medical missionaries, teachers of the gospel? What evidence do we give that we are Christ’s medical missionaries, imbued by His Spirit? Do we show that we are preparing for a life that measures with the life of God? With the opportunities and privileges that we have had, we should be in advance of any people in the world. But what spirit are we bringing into our work? Are we bearing witness to the world to the blessedness of bringing the life of Christ into our individual lives? Do we fear lest, after a promise being left us of entering into God’s rest, some of us should seem to come short, because we do not love Him?
The lives of medical missionaries should be in harmony with the name they bear. Their words and acts should be an interpretation of all that the name embraces. The world has a right to expect from those who claim to be medical missionaries a course of conduct corresponding to all that the name signifies. In this present life God’s servants are to give to the world an example of the preparation that those must make who obtain eternal life. But many of those claiming to have advanced knowledge of the Word of God have given to the world a sample of character that He cannot approve.
It behooves us to live in the fear and love of God. God is supreme, and He co-operates with those who represent Christ in life and character, those who are kind, thoughtful, self-denying, and self-sacrificing. Christ says, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.]
Make your life preparation for eternity. You have not a moment to lose. Do you keep God’s commandments? Do you fear to offend Him? Do you feel your dependence on Christ? Do you realize that you must be kept every moment by His power? Is your life filled each day with submission, contentment, and gratitude?
Medical missionary workers are acknowledged by Christ, not because they bear the name they do, but because they are under the guardianship of the Chief Missionary, who left heaven to give His life for the life of the world. He says, “If ye love Me, keep My commandments. … He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me, and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and manifest Myself to him.” [John 14:15, 21.]
Then, as witnesses for God, give proof that you are under the discipline and training of the great Medical Missionary; that you have placed yourselves in His hands, to manifest His Spirit, to shew to the world the sacred character of His great work, and to reveal to unbelievers the advantage of being under His guardianship. A medical missionary is not of value to the cause of God unless all the principles embraced in the name that he bears are developed in his life. The gospel of Christ is to be brought into the daily life. We are to make our life in this world an example, as far as we possibly can, of what the life in heaven will be. This Christ expects of all who claim to be medical missionaries. They are not to cherish one principle that bears a taint of selfishness. They are to stand before the world as followers of Christ, partaking of His self-denial and humiliation, and heralding His coming.
Christ might have astonished the world by a display of His glorious divinity. But He concealed this, to place Himself at the head of humanity. He was tempted in all points like as we are, that He might know how to succor those who are tempted. He requires His followers to submit to no inconvenience and self-sacrifice to which He did not submit. He might have come escorted by ten thousand times ten thousand of the heavenly host; but no! He clothed Himself in the habiliments of humanity. He made Himself of no reputation. He humbled Himself at every step. “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 53:5.]
It is possible for us to represent Him. We need not by wilful, unsanctified lives continually deny Him and by unprincipled actions put Him to open shame, while claiming to be medical missionaries. May God have mercy upon us, bestowing repentance and healing; for if we continue to dishonor His great and holy name, refusing to humble our hearts, refusing to heed His admonitions, and bracing our souls in pride and self-sufficiency, His judgments upon us will be repeated.
Monday, April 20, 1903
This morning between twelve and one o’clock, I awoke from sleep calling upon the Lord in prayer, both in my own behalf and in the behalf of my brethren. I felt a wonderful nearness to God. These words were sounding in my ears: “Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.” [Luke 18:37.] “If Thou wilt, Thou canst make me whole.” [See Matthew 8:2.] In my hand and arm there was a feeling which I did not at first understand, a feeling of freedom and power for service. I continued the prayer that I had been offering in my sleep and then arose and dressed. The exhaustion from which I had been suffering since the Conference in Oakland was gone; my head was rested and my mind was clear. The day before, I had felt deeply burdened, and in the afternoon I wrote thirteen pages in my large diary. As fast as my pen could trace the words I wrote the first part of this, and other things to our brethren in the medical work, who have been holding responsible positions in our institutions. I thank the Lord for healing, and for strength necessary to the performance of the work He has given me to do.
In our institutions there has been a departure from pure, holy, sanctified principles in business management, and the Lord has come near to His people in rebuke and judgment. He sends to them the messages:
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen and repent and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:1-5.]
“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore, thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” [Revelation 3:1-5.]
Keeping daily guard over ourselves, over thought and word and act, facing God’s law as we face a mirror, seeing if we are true to God’s requirements—this is the part we are to act. And when we discover an inconsistency in our life, we are to repent before God and correct the wrong, else our whole experience will be leavened with evil. We are not to forget the revelation of the divine mirror. We are to remember that nothing that the Lord declares impure or false can help to make our lives more fit for the kingdom of God. We are not our own, and we are to search the Word of God diligently, that we may know what are the duties enjoined by that word. That which God expects of His children here below is plainly outlined and urged upon us in the Word. His instruction is sustained by promises scattered all through the Word, from the beginning to the end. The Lord knows how to deal justly and truly with the members of His family.
In all your councils and labors, remember that nothing is to be done through strife or vainglory. God will surely call to account any one who treats a member of His family in an arbitrary or unkind manner.
The words of the Psalmist are strikingly definite: “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.” You may not have originated the reproach, but even taking it up brings condemnation upon you. “In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]
Those who violate the principles of heavenly origin, and disregard the plain injunctions of God; those who do not respect the rules of God’s family government, who in this world of test and trial do the opposite of what He has told them to do, determined to follow on in an evil course, could not be received as members of His heavenly family. They would create the same disturbance in the heavenly courts that they have created here below. They would stir up a second rebellion. So the Lord gives human beings their trial in the lower apartment. Those who will see His face, those who will be admitted to the glorious courts above, must here live the Christ life.
“If ye forgive men their trespasses,” said our Saviour to His disciples, “your heavenly Father will also forgive your trespasses. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses.” [Matthew 6:14, 15.] The Lord’s requirements are plainly stated, and they are without a flaw. At the day of judgment, no one will have any excuse for saying, “I did not understand.” The duty of dedicating all to God is clearly enjoined in His Word.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” [Romans 12:1.] Our all is the measure of the consecration that God accepts. He claims the service of those whom He has redeemed, whether they give themselves to Him or to the enemy. But He does not force them to obey His call. Each one must choose for himself whether he will receive or reject the Saviour, whether he will have eternal life or eternal death.
Lt 64, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 22, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
At times I have a great desire to see you and talk with you, but this I cannot now do. I can talk to you with my pen only.
The General Conference is in the past. It pleased the Lord to give me strength to attend this meeting. He is very merciful and gracious. Although I had many perplexing questions to consider, I was strengthened to bear my testimony. If after presenting to our people the words that God gives me I could have sure evidence that these words are received, I should be relieved of a heavy burden. But I greatly fear that the watchmen, whose business it is to be on guard, who should be quick to perceive the dangers before the people of God and to take every possible means to prepare them to withstand the temptations of the enemy, are some of them blind.
In all our institutions watchmen of experience are needed to guard every post of duty, lest the enemy steal in and cause an influence to pervade our institutions that will do injury to many souls.
I plead with God, in the name of Christ, to help his people not to continue to occupy the position pointed out in the message:
“These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God, I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot, I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” [Revelation 3:14-17.]
Shall this continue to be the condition of the people claiming to be Seventh-day Adventists? No one need remain in this condition, which makes men so abhorrent to the Saviour that He cannot take their names on His lips. God is weighing the actions of men. Will His people continue to slight His messages of mercy. Will those who claim to be leaders of His people mistake the path that He wants them to follow? Christ says, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.]
God sent to the church at Sardis the message: “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 3:2, 3.] Wherein was their deficiency? It is shown in the words, “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” [Verse 1.] They had a name to live, but as far as exerting a saving influence is concerned, they were dead. They had a form of godliness without the power.
There are today in the flock of God shepherds who do not discern their spiritual need, who do not keep the pure principles of truth uncontaminated by worldly influences. They are careless in regard to their own spiritual standing. To them comes the urgent message, “Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Verse 2.] Remember how you have received and heard the truth. Receive the messages of warning brought by the Lord’s ambassadors. Let not these warnings become dim in your memory. “Hold fast and repent.” [Verse 3.]
Jesus declares that the Father is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. The Holy Spirit understands man’s every necessity. He will bestow upon the earnest seeker that for which He hungers and thirsts. The blessings that God has to bestow are unlimited. We cannot comprehend their height and depth and breadth. All heaven is at the command of those who, realizing their lack of wisdom, come directly to the source of all wisdom. To such ones God gives liberally and upbraids not. But let them ask in faith, nothing wavering. “For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed.” [James 1:6.] The one who receives wisdom from on high is the one who holds fast to the promise, the one who feels his need and will not be turned aside.
Divine grace can be forfeited by a misapplication of the rich treasure. Every teacher in our schools, every medical worker, every shepherd of the sheep and lambs is in positive need of the Holy Spirit. Let God’s servants work in sincerity, with humility and with purity of purpose. God has spiritual power in store for every diligent seeker. There is power for all who will seek for it with an intensity of earnestness. These will become partakers of the divine nature; for they have cooperated with God.
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” [Philippians 2:12.] All self-sufficiency, all desire to dictate to others, all pride and selfishness, must be cast out; these things belong to the enemy’s stock in trade. All may have hope who desire to be laborers together with God in His great plan for soul-saving. “For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Verse 13.] Spiritual influence is given to them to be increased by a right use. They will be given an enlargement of power proportionate to their desire to do the will of God. The influence given them will greatly increase their usefulness, unless they forfeit the blessing by selfishness by a misuse of the entrusted gift.
The Lord is greatly dishonored when wrong practices are carried on by the ministers or the lay members of His church. These wrong practices arouse a spirit of alienation and strife and faultfinding. God sees beneath the surface. He reads the heart of every one who is following evil ways. He says to all, “I know thy works.” [Revelation 3:1.] How many times those misusing the precious gifts of heaven read these words and yet make no change in the life. We must arouse from our spiritual slumber. We must be born again. There is a lamentable decay in religious experience. A truly godly life is rarely seen. The sins of the church are charged upon the church by One who never makes a mistake. The sins of a wrongdoer will remain upon him until he clears his soul from the impurity and falsehood and makes straight paths for his feet.
“Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white; for they are worthy.” [Verse 4.] What higher honor could be bestowed on human beings? “They shall walk with Me in white; for they are worthy.” Because of their faith this honor is bestowed on them. In this life they did not boast or lift up their soul unto vanity. With intensity of desire, with a pure and holy faith, they grasped the promise of eternal riches. Their one desire was to be like Christ. Their earnestness was proportionate to their intensity. Ever they kept the standard of righteousness uplifted. To them is given an eternal weight of glory, because on the earth they walked with God, keeping themselves unspotted from the world, revealing to sinful human beings the righteousness of Christ. Of them the Saviour declares, They shall walk with Me in white, in robes of honor and glory, in the world that I have prepared for them. “He that overcometh the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” [Verse 5.]
Christ is their Redeemer, the Captain of their salvation. He leads them to the Father, saying with triumphant joy, “Here am I and the children whom Thou hast given Me.” [Isaiah 8:18.]
“And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder; and I heard the voices of harpers harping with many harps, and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song, but the hundred and forty and four thousand which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]
“After this, I beheld, and lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; and cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, saying, Amen: blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be unto our God forever and ever.” [Revelation 7:9-12.]
Lt 65, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 19, 1903
Dr. J. H. Kellogg
My dear brother,—
I wake in the night, and my heart is drawn out after you. I ask myself, “Should his life end suddenly, would I be guiltless if I do not now do all in my power to lead his mind away from the world?” I find myself sitting up in bed, sending heavenward the petition, “Lord, open his eyes, that he may see wondrous things out of Thy law. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [See Psalm 119:18; 19:7.]
I have a sense of your danger, and you need to have a sense of it. If we should sustain you in a wrong course, we would ourselves be committing sin. You may have the confidence and approval of men, but the praise of human beings is no evidence of the approval of God. It furnishes no evidence that they see as He sees. Those who trust to the praise and approval of men will end their lives without having obtained a preparedness to meet God.
My brother, I have the deepest interest in you, knowing the value of the human soul, and I entreat you to turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart. In the night season I am pleading with you to heed the Scripture, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” [2 Corinthians 13:5.] I am waiting and longing to hear from you in regard to your individual experience. It is not feeling, but genuine faith and works, that lay hold upon unseen realities. True faith is substantiated by a sure “Thus saith the Lord,” by the word, “It is written.”
The instruction that Christ gives in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew is the very best education that you or I can ever obtain. “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.” [Verses 1-4.]
Who needs, then, to err? Who needs to be in darkness, when Christ has spoken words so simple and so easily understood? Will you not show, in your daily experience, that your dependence is in God? Will you not show that you are not seeking to be first? Will you not esteem others better than yourself, because the word of Inspiration declares that you should do this? It is not by taking the position that Christ has declared we should take that you will give evidence that you are a true child of God.
You are inclined to exalt yourself, to cherish a spirit of censoriousness. You show contempt for those who are chosen of God and precious, because they differ with you in some things. It is in the order of God that in some things they should differ with you. But because they do not agree with all your plans, you sometimes feel that you want nothing to do with them. Do you realize the danger of despising Christ in the person of His saints? God is light, and when He gives instruction to human beings that does not please them, shall they regard with scorn and contempt the messenger who, as a faithful steward, has had the courage to speak to them the truth? Will you, my brother, become the enemy of the Lord’s messenger, and say many things that are untrue of the one who has told you the truth?
O that you would sit as a humble learner at the feet of Christ! Then you would reveal a character that God could approve. What a change there would be in the atmosphere surrounding your soul! You need so much the softening, subduing influence of the Holy Spirit. It is for your present and eternal good that you become soundly converted, through the sanctifying influence of the truth as it is in Jesus. Examine and prove yourself. Do not let any man deceive you. However highly a man may appreciate you, he cannot read your heart. Pray now, without delay, that you may not deceive yourself or be deceived by others.
I tell you the truth; I lie not. You need a renewed heart. Pray that your eyes may be anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, that you may discern the true character of your religious faith and experience. Have you that faith which works by love and purifies the soul? Are you striving to reach the standard that God has set before you? If you choose, you can make the Word of God of no effect to many souls, leading them away from the safe path. But I want you to stand on vantage ground before God. I want you to sit at the wedding feast clad in the wedding garment—the righteousness of Christ.
You have had many, many opportunities to become acquainted with the truth as it is in Jesus. Will you not hold the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end? Will you not look to Jesus as your pattern in character building? Then the structure that you rear will not be weak and imperfect, but solid and symmetrical. Study carefully the life of Christ. Constantly compare your way of viewing things with the way in which they are viewed in the Word of God. Do not in character misrepresent the character of Christ. Never, never depart from the way of the Lord; for “what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.]
There are many who dishonor Christ by their unsanctified lives. But there are men who have lived with their eyes fixed on the Saviour. There are faithful ones who have served the Lord with uprightness of heart. Their lives have borne witness to the truth of the words: “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold; yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” [Psalm 19:8-10.]
One who knew by blessed experience the value of God’s law thus expressed his thanksgiving: “How sweet are Thy words to my taste; yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” “Whom have I in heaven but Thee, and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee?” “Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous, and shout for joy, all ye upright in heart.” [Psalm 119:103; 73:25; 32:11.]
This may be your experience if you will separate from you all that is marring your character. I beseech you to make an unreserved surrender to God, and to make it now, just now. When you make this surrender, you will have an experience entirely different from the experience that you have had for many years. Then you will be able to say with the apostle Paul, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.” [Philippians 3:8.] “I delight in the law of God, after the inward man.” [Romans 7:22.]
Every privilege is opened before you. Christ presents His loveliness of character for you to copy. When you make Him your example, your pride and self-assurance will be removed. You are becoming weak in spiritual power through cherishing an unforgiving spirit and indulging wrathful feelings that place you under the control of Satan. These things are bearing sorry testimony against you. When you are converted, your masterly spirit, which leads you to judge and condemn and censure, will be changed.
Will you not accept the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Christ’s life, from beginning to end, was a life of meekness and humility. He was the Majesty of heaven, yet He came to our world to take His position at the head of the fallen race, and in human nature to reveal the character that all must form who are admitted into the city of God. He came to show the power of the sanctification of body, soul, and spirit that we must possess if we gain the life that measures with the life of God.
Christians must exemplify before the world, before angels, and before men the keeping power of the grace of Christ. You are intelligent in regard to the capabilities of body and mind and in regard to the victories that may be gained over the appetites and passions. You are a prominent member of the Medical Missionary and Benevolent Association. What you say and do carries a weight of influence. This influence should ever be exerted on the side of obedience to Bible truth. You should ever point the way heavenward, giving those whom you seek to educate the gospel remedy for pride and self-exaltation. This you can do by exemplifying in your life the virtues of Christ, the great Healer, the Medical Missionary sent by God to reveal the power of the grace that God’s tried and tempted children can have in this life, preparatory to entering into the city of God, to take their place as little children in His kingdom. We are given opportunity to be learners of Christ here below, that we may be His students in the courts above, learners of Him through the ceaseless ages of eternity.
Lt 66, 1903
Jones, A. T.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 22, 1903
Previously unpublished.
Elder A. T. Jones
My dear brother,—
I have written another letter to Dr. Kellogg, which I send to you, with the request that you read it to him at the first favorable opportunity. I greatly desire that every effort possible shall be made to encourage him to listen to the warnings, the counsels, and the encouragements which the Lord has given to me for him; and I know that if this letter falls into his hands at a time when he is weary, or worried and perplexed, its true spirit and meaning may not be understood. If you seek a suitable opportunity to read it to him, and your prayers and entreaties are mingled with the words of entreaty which the Lord sends through me, there may be more hope of a lasting impression for good.
Tomorrow I will send to you two testimonies which ought to be read to our brethren assembled at Battle Creek attending the Medical Missionary Council. Several copies will be sent to you, so that after the MSS. have been read, copies can be placed in the hands of those who ought to have them. Single copies will also be sent to Elder Daniells and Dr. Paulson. It will be well for you to counsel with them as to when and how these matters should be brought before the Council in the way that will do the most good.
I appeal to you, Brother Jones, to bring forcibly before the leading medical men the necessity of their doing thorough work at this time in the matter of investigating the true business standing of our medical institutions. Let there be no superficial work. It is also the duty of our medical men to study into the reasons why the managers of the Boulder Sanitarium have not made payment to the General Conference Association of a portion of the indebtedness of that institution.
If in the management of the medical missionary work there has been a grasping spirit to receive as much as possible from the General Conference, and then to hold every advantage without consideration of the financial condition of the Conference, our medical men in responsible positions should not close their eyes to it, or consent to have this condition of things continue.
After the Conference, I was very weak; but the Lord is giving me strength day by day to write the things which I am sending forward to the Council. I pray that there may be a humbling of proud hearts before the Lord; that there may be confession of sins and a turning to the Lord.
I shall be glad to hear from you when you have time to write.
In much love.
Lt 67, 1903
Brethren at the Medical Missionary Council
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 23, 1903
To our brethren assembled at the Medical Missionary Council at Battle Creek,—
The work committed to us by the Lord will advance rapidly only when we labor in unity. In unity there is a life, a power, that cannot be obtained without it. United with one another, working together in harmony for the salvation of men, we shall indeed be “laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]
“Yes,” says one, “this is exactly what I believe in—consolidation.” But Christian unity is not what the world calls consolidation. Unity among brethren results in consolidation with Christ and with the heavenly angels. Such consolidation is heavenborn. It is that for which Christ longed when He prayed for unity among His disciples.
Last July, in the night season, it seemed as if I were speaking to a large company of brethren and sisters. Before me were some who had superior tact and ability to reach souls—men and women who, if consecrated, could have awakened many of the careless, the indifferent, the godless. But these church members had lost their hold on Jesus. They desired to command, not to serve. No longer were they united with love for one another and for perishing souls.
While I was speaking, a heavenly Messenger came forward, and said: “Have you forgotten the scenes of Gethsemane? Christ passed through His last terrible trial in order that you might not perish, but have eternal life. ‘Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.’ [1 John 3:16.]
“By your failure to work in harmony, you are greatly dishonoring God. The enemy of your souls delights to see you working at cross-purposes with one another. You need to cultivate brotherly love and tenderness of heart. If you could draw aside the curtain veiling the future, and see the result of your present course, you would surely be led to repent. By repentance you can save yourselves much sorrow.
“Would it not be well for you to seek the Lord as the disciples sought Him before the day of Pentecost? After Christ’s ascension, His disciples—men of varied talents and capabilities—assembled in an upper chamber to pray for the gift of the Holy Spirit. In this room ‘all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication.’ [Acts 1:14.] They made thorough work for repentance by confessing their own sins. Upon them was laid no burden to confess one another’s sins. Settling all differences and alienations, they were of one accord and prayed with unity of purpose for ten days, at the end of which time ‘they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.’ [Acts 2:4.]
“The Holy Spirit cannot be revealed to you while dissension and strife exist. Would it not be well for you to lay ‘aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,’ and ‘as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby’? [1 Peter 2:1, 2.]
“If you would unitedly put away your unchristlike, hereditary and cultivated traits, and work together, the Lord could work through you. But souls will not be convicted and converted until you come into unity and Christian fellowship. Lose sight of self. Keep your eyes fixed upon the Redeemer.
“The representation that you make before believers and unbelievers is one of variance and strife. Clear away this rubbish. Press together. Be satisfied with nothing less than a thorough work of humiliation and repentance. Work as for your lives to overcome every evil trait of character. You are not placed in the Lord’s vineyard to create dissension and alienation. Sweep away the evils that have crept in. ‘Consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.’ [Hebrews 10:24.]
“The Lord designs that all His children shall blend in unity. Do you not expect to live together in unity in the same heaven? Is Christ divided against Himself. Will He give you success before all the rubbish of evil surmising and discord is swept away; before the laborers with unity of purpose devote heart, soul, mind, and strength to the work so holy in God’s sight? ‘As He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.’ [1 Peter 1:15.]
“In Christ’s prayer for His disciples He petitioned His Father: ‘Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.’ Who is being sanctified through the truth? ‘Neither pray I for these alone,’ He continued, ‘but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved me.’ [John 17:17-23.]
“The prayer of Christ is not yet answered. There is a work that still remains undone. Although engaged in the Master’s service, many laborers are envious, full of strife, destitute of the love that should be in their hearts. Those who claim to be Christians but who reveal the characteristics of worldlings are dishonoring the name of Jesus. Will you not consider the representation that you are making before unbelievers? Will you not seek for the blessing of the Holy Spirit, that you may answer the prayer of Christ? Would it not be well for you to pray that you shall not disappoint the Lord Jesus by failing to be His instrumentalities? When in word and deed you answer His prayer, putting away all variance, His Spirit will bear witness that you are His instrumentalities, and the world will take knowledge of you, that you have been with Jesus and have learned of Him.
“The Lord calls upon those now working in connection with His cause to repent and be converted. Many, standing in their own light, are wasting precious opportunities. There is great need of coming together with deep humiliation and sincere repentance because of the lack of unity and brotherly love that has been manifested. In the Word, Christians are instructed not to neglect the assembling of themselves together. If need be, come together with fasting. Make most diligent search for the cause of your soul-sickness, which must be healed. Until in every sense of the word you are Christians in your association with one another, until you love as brethren, how can your efforts for unbelievers be acceptable to God? Your first work is to be converted yourselves.”
*****
God says, “If those who have allowed a wrong spirit to control them will come to Me in repentance, and will confess their sins, I will hear their prayers and will pardon them. But if they do not come to Me, if they consult human agencies, and allow themselves to be leavened with the leaven of human malice and evil surmising, they will surely be separated from My work.”
The stubborn and hardhearted, unless they repent, will be separated from the work. The Lord Jesus cannot accept the labors of any man who has left his first love. He may have the capabilities essential for the work, but unless the love of Christ is burning on the altar of his heart, the want of that love will be seen in all his work, and Christ will be misrepresented.
How thankful we should be that the Lord is willing to accept every one who manifests repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ! Let us never place bars in the way of any soul, so that he will not have the courage to engage in the good warfare against Satan’s temptations. Instead of criticizing one another, let us deal sternly with self. With the closest introspection let us examine our peculiar temperament and weaknesses of character. Let us deal decidedly and bravely with our perverse disposition, so that we shall not dishonor God. Let us remember that we are all members of one body, and that among these members there is to be no crowding, no judging, no measuring of one gift by another.
God calls for light-bearers who will fill the world with the light and peace and joy that come from Christ. God will use humble men, men who will cherish a sense of their weakness, who will not think that the work of God depends on them. Such men will remember what the service of God demands from them—the propriety of speech and action that God calls for. They will reveal that Christ dwells in the heart, imparting purity to the whole being.
My brethren, will you not realize that there is much at stake? Will you not conduct the work in so healthful and wholesome a manner that all the threads now tangled and knotted will be straightened out? Forget not to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” [Hebrews 10:24.] If you will now draw nigh to God, many of those who are in serious perplexity because of their self-confidence will confess that they have manifested an unchristlike spirit and will turn to Jesus, placing their confidence in Him. Realizing their own weakness, they will wear Christ’s yoke and learn of Him. Receiving His strength, they will become sons of God.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” [Philippians 4:8, 9.]
Lt 68, 1903
Butler, Hiland
May 1, 1903 [typed]
Dear Brother Hiland Butler,—
I am sorry that any one has written to you disparagingly of Brother W. O. Palmer. Why should this be done? No one is free from mistakes. I might present many things in criticism of those with whom I associate. But what would be gained by this?
I know that there are many who cherish feelings of criticism toward Brother Palmer. But I have been instructed that in the sight of a holy God his case is not one-tenth part as injurious to the cause as the cases of some to whom God has given great light and many opportunities, but who refuse to walk in the light if it does not suit their own ideas.
There are those who are doing what the Lord calls a strange work. They need the divine enlightenment. They need to be converted. Their testimony should not be allowed to lead to the rejection of those who are striving to serve God. They are not living in the light of God. They are not obeying His commands. Between them and Him there is a barrier that cannot be removed without a complete change of heart. Only by such a change of heart can they be brought into right relation with God.
There is but one path to heaven—the strait and narrow way. Of those who enter this path the Lord says, “Ye are My witnesses.” [Isaiah 43:10.] Those only who love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves can walk in this way. Christ says, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] We are to follow Christ in everything, conforming our lives to His teachings.
It is the duty of all to press toward the light, ever keeping in view the perfection of Him whose words and works bear the impress of divinity.
Paul writes, “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung that I may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 3:7-14.]
That righteousness is of no real value that goes no further than external form. It was in this righteousness that the religion of the Pharisees consisted. Upon this they relied for salvation.
“Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in anything ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.” [Verse 15.]
By the counsel of His grace He will show them their mistakes. They must receive the truth in the meekness of holiness. Pride and self-importance must die.
The child of God is to reach out for higher and still higher attainments. He is to confess every sin, that by his example others may be helped to confess their sins and to cherish the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. He is to be constantly on guard, never standing still, never turning back, but ever pressing on toward the mark of the prize of his high calling in Christ.
There is a crown of immortality for the children of God to win. He will give them power to conquer in the strife with evil. When danger comes to them, angels are beside them, to help them; for the angels are “ministering spirits, sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation.” [Hebrews 1:14.]
Watch vigilantly, swerving not to the right hand or to the left. Never give up to despair. “Whereunto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same things.” [Philippians 3:16.] “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. … As many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.” [Galatians 6:14, 16.]
A man is not one whit the safer because he occupies an exalted position and has been given great privileges. He is exposed to Satan’s attacks and is liable to fall into grievous sins and to make serious mistakes. Knowing his weakness, he should be very kind, very compassionate in dealing with others. In tenderness and love he should strive to reclaim the erring, doing nothing that will drive them away from Christ. When he sees a fellow worker in danger of making mistakes, he should not draw away from him, allowing him to stumble on in darkness. This would be revealing a selfishness most abhorrent.
Let men beware how they use their God-given talents to magnify the wrongs of others and to vindicate their own course. It may be that their own faults are more grievous in the sight of God than the faults of those they criticize.
Those who turn from the counsel of the Spirit of God, to follow their own counsel, counterwork the efforts of the Holy Spirit to guide their feet in the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord. They will surely lead other souls astray. God will place them among the chief of sinners. They had great light and many opportunities, but they exalted themselves to their own ruin. When sentence of condemnation is passed on them, they will have no one but themselves to blame. Seeking earthly distinction and advantages, they lost the crown that fadeth not away.
A man may distinguish himself by doing many praiseworthy things when it is agreeable to his feelings to do them, and then again may use strange fire which comes not from heaven, and which he has been forbidden to use. Men clothed with holy vestments may greatly dishonor their Creator by exalting the human above the divine. Unless those who do this repent, the wrath of God will come upon them.
This life is our time for eternity. The good seed that day by day we sow, because we believe in Christ and receive Him as our Saviour, will spring up and bear fruit unto eternal life. We shall be given power to become sons and daughters of God.
Those who are created anew in Christ do not live to themselves. They do not aspire to do some great thing that will bring them before the world. They are filled with a longing to practice the lessons of Christ. They pray constantly for conformity to His likeness. And not only do they pray; they work.
Every day we should test our motives and opinions and course of conduct by the Bible rule. As we do this, bringing our wills into harmony with God’s will, He is glorified in us. He rejoices in the evidence of purity and self-denial that appears in our lives. Those who walk as Christ in His humanity walked, revealing His meekness and lowliness, bear with them that which makes them light in the world. They obey the word, “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]
Lt 69, 1903
Van Horn, Charles
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 23, 1903
My dear brother,—
I have words of encouragement for you. Jesus loves you. He gave His precious life that you should not perish, but have everlasting life. Then lift your eyes to Him. Look on the bright side. It will do you no good to look on the dark side. Be patient, come what will. You may gather strength from Jesus, for in Him all fulness dwells. When despair would sweep over your soul, continue to look to Jesus. Cast your helpless soul upon Him. He ever liveth to make intercession for you. You are precious in His sight. He who looks with interest upon the little, brown sparrow looks in love and pity upon His tried, afflicted child.
It is for our present happiness and our future good that God subjects us to discipline. The greatest blessing that His children have is the discipline that He sends them. He never leads them otherwise than they would choose to be led if they could see the end from the beginning and discern the glory of the purpose that they are fulfilling as workers together with Him.
The divine Worker spends little time on worthless material. Only the precious jewels does He polish after the similitude of a palace, cutting away the rough edges. The process is severe and trying; Christ cuts away the surplus surface, and putting the stone to the polishing wheel, presses it close, that all roughness may be worn off. Then, holding the jewel up to the light, the Master sees in it a reflection of Himself, and He pronounces it worthy of a place in His casket.
Blessed be the experience, however severe, that gives new value to the stone, causing it to shine with living brightness.
My dear brother, look ever to Jesus, and bring heaven into your life here below. The road to heaven is narrow and the gate strait; but all who will may pass through the gate and walk in the narrow path. If we reach heaven at last, our heaven must begin here below. The more of heaven that we bring into our life here, the greater will be our happiness in the home above.
Let your mind dwell on the goodness of God, on the great love wherewith He has loved you. If He did not love you, He would not have given Jesus to die for you. His everlasting arms are underneath you. In all your afflictions He is afflicted.
“Strong is the strength that God supplies, through His eternal Son.”
Lt 70, 1903
Walling, Addie; Walling, May
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 27, 1903
Dear children Addie and May Walling,—
I have written once or twice to you lately, but as I have received no reply, I fear that my letters must have been misdirected. I will write only a few lines now, but will write more when I know that you are receiving my letters.
My strength was severely taxed while at the Conference, but the Lord sustained me through the meeting, and by His blessing I am recovering from the strain. I could have borne the work of the meeting very well, had not many perplexities arisen to describe which would require the pen of a ready writer. While in Oakland I contracted a severe cold. Sara gave me thorough treatment, and this broke it up; but it still comes and goes, as colds often will.
During the first week of the Conference, rain fell nearly every day, but for some time the weather has been very pleasant.
The prospects of the Sanitarium here are more encouraging than they have been for some time. The patients are well-to-do, and all the higher-priced rooms are taken. The patients who have recently come express themselves as being well pleased with everything about the institution. Some who have travelled much say they never before saw such beautiful scenery or so fine a location. They roam over the hills and are enjoying their stay very much.
Dr. Evans and his wife are the chief physicians. Both are pleased with their work and are well thought of by others. Dr. Winegar is connected with the institution. She has lately married a Mr. Simpson from Battle Creek. Dr. Zelinsky and wife are also connected with the institution. The interest in religious lines seems to be good. Elder Taylor, the chaplain, is a faithful worker, and all seem to like him.
Brother Hicks was buried last Sunday. He died from a hemorrhage of the lungs, having been confined to his house only a short time. We shall miss him. Ever since the Sanitarium was built, he has shown an interest in its work.
Brother and Sister St. John live in a home of their own. Their daughter Hattie and her three children live with them. Mary Chinnock Thorpe, with her husband and his mother, live on the hillside.
Sarah Peck and her mother live in a small cottage near our house. We intended using this building for our workers, but it proved to be too small for the office work, so I built a plain, neat structure with eight rooms for our workers.
Sarah Peck teaches the Sanitarium church school. There are about forty pupils in attendance. Sister Peck has the reputation of being an excellent teacher. Her discipline is good, and all are well pleased with her work. The school house is built among the trees and rocks on a piece of ground at the foot of the Sanitarium hill a little removed from the road. All think it a delightful location. I was unable to give money to help in starting the school, but I have given the land for as long a time as the church may desire to use it for school purposes. When they wish a larger building, if I am able, I will take the present one off their hands.
Ella May White has been canvassing in Sacramento for the Desire of Ages and has sold a good many books. Our people in that place are well pleased with the spiritual influence she has exerted, and put her in as superintendent of their Sabbath School.
Mabel is not well all of the time. The doctors say she cannot endure the confinement of a school room and must not use her eyes in reading or studying. Some doctors fear that she may become blind if her eyes are taxed too severely. This has been very discouraging to her. She attended the Conference in Oakland and helped in the dining tent as waitress. She received four dollars a week and her board. She has a very good address, and the Food Company desired her to remain and help them in restaurant work. However they have not opened a new restaurant in Oakland as they intended, and Mabel came home yesterday. For a year or two she has been working in the Food Factory here, but its noise and its atmosphere were very disagreeable to her; and she has been desirous of getting work somewhere else.
The twins are hearty boys. It is difficult to distinguish one from the other. Grace, the baby, is a strong, healthy girl with a good disposition. She is now nearly three years old.
Brother James, who has charge of the work on our farm, occupies a cottage near us with his family of eight children. They are a nice family. He is assisted by a faithful, intelligent man from Australia.
I have quite a company of workers with me. W. C. White takes charge of the business of my book work. He uses excellent judgment in deciding what shall be published. His brethren have wanted him with them in council meetings, and in the past I have let him go. But I have decided that he can help the cause of God more by assisting me in my work than by attending council meetings.
Marian edits the books that are prepared. Maggie Hare and Clarence Crisler prepare the articles for the papers. Miss Helen Graham does the typewriting. Dores Robinson, a son of A. T. Robinson, has lately come to help in the work.
Marian is sick at the Sanitarium. One evening while at the Conference in Oakland, she visited the Observatory. Not having sufficient wraps, she took a severe cold. We sent her up to the Sanitarium, and ever since she has been sick in bed. A nurse has been with her night and day. She has had a very severe illness, and at one time we feared she might die. I have been sick myself, and I was unable to go up to see her until last Friday when I went with W. C. White. Her room is on the fifth storey, and I had to tax my strength severely to walk up the last flight of stairs. We had a season of prayer for her.
Sabbath was a hard day for me. I could not sit up, and my head troubled me much. I feared that I would have to give up my work and go to bed. But yesterday morning, Sunday, my head was better, and I was thankful to be able to do some writing.
This morning, Monday, I am up early writing these lines to you. I should be tempted to go away somewhere for a change, but the change might make me worse, and besides, I must be with my workers to decide what matters shall be published. I want to make my time count for as much as possible while I have the strength to help.
I have several books in anticipation. I want to get out a book on the acts of the apostles, to follow the life of Christ. I have much matter written that I wish to put in book form. I sometimes fear that a fire will come and I shall lose much of the precious matter that I desire to print.
I can say but little in reference to the Conference at Oakland. It was a profitable occasion, and the Lord certainly helped us in the meeting. Some serious questions which arose were left to be decided at the meeting of the Medical Missionary and Benevolent Association in Battle Creek, which is now in session. We have been waiting with intense interest for news from them.
April 28
This morning a telegram came from Dr. Kellogg and Brother Daniells, saying, “Peace established according to Ephesians 2:14-22.” We are very grateful for this. We have prayed most earnestly and have tried to exercise living faith that a work might be done in Battle Creek which would establish unity. But until this morning we had received no word from the meeting. The Lord is good. I praise His name that there is unity in place of dissension.
I would like to hear from you often, for I am interested in you both. I thought that perhaps you would come to Conference, but perhaps it is as well that you did not. I would like to see you, but many miles separate us. God be with you, and bless you.
Your Aunt.
Lt 71, 1903
Haskell, Brother and Sister [S. N.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 24, 1903
Dear brother and sister Haskell,—
I expected to see you at the Conference in Oakland, but I have not a word of reproof to give you for not coming, because the Lord knows what is best.
All through the meeting, from the beginning to the end, I carried a very heavy load. Since returning home, I have been able to write some important matters to the brethren assembled in council in Battle Creek, and to Dr. Kellogg. These letters and manuscripts I sent to Elder A. T. Jones to read to Dr. Kellogg and his fellow workers. There must be an altogether different showing in many lines. Matters must come into an altogether different shape. I believe that the Lord will work. I lie awake at night, praying that at this time the Lord will manifest His power in all our institutions.
The Lord desires us, His little children, always to be learners in His school, meek, lowly, and obedient. Then He can say to us, “Ye shall find rest in an experience that daily brings you nearer heaven.” His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
We are living amidst the perils of the last days. As God’s children, we have been given a higher, nobler work than disparaging one another. To disparage others will surely place us where we shall be disparaged in the courts of heaven, because we know not the things that make for our peace.
I entreat you not to be discouraged. Let people say what they will. If what they say is not in your favor, say, “I will not please the enemy by allowing these words to stir me up to retaliation or to depress me. The enemy’s work shall be a failure as far as I am concerned. I will prove his words false. I will not be disturbed.”
Then the Lord will draw near to you and will give you a rich measure of love and peace and joy so decided, so divine, that even in the midst of the trial of your faith, you will be a witness to the truth of the word of promise. You have a sense of the divine presence. You know that the Word of God is no cunningly devised fable. Your mind is moved by the Holy Spirit and enlightened by heavenly truth. The eyes of your understanding have been opened, and the truth that at times you have seen but dimly you now see clearly. The quickening influence of the Holy Spirit is to you as precious as fine gold. You can tell the story of the cross with a deep appreciation of the Saviour’s love; for this love has melted and transformed your heart. You bear about with you in the daily life the sign that Christ is formed within, the hope of glory.
But I must stop for the present.
April 28
For several days and nights the Lord has been giving me special experiences. In the future we are to pass through very strait places, and we shall understand the value of having some workers who have been through the giving of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. The voices of these workers are to be heard in distinct utterance, saying, “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.” [1 John 1:1-4.]
During the past night many things were presented to me. While I was calling upon the Lord to reveal His grace and His miracle-working power among us as a people, I fell asleep, and I was in conversation with several of our ministering brethren. I addressed my remarks to W. C. White. I told him that we must begin to work in a way different from the way in which we had been working in regard to the precious light that God has given us in the testimonies of His Spirit. I said, “As a people we do not show sufficient appreciation of this God-given instruction. We do not make the best use of the light given. The matter that has been brought before the people must be brought before them over and over again. The articles that are printed in our papers are soon forgotten by the readers. They must be brought together, reprinted in book form, and placed before believers and unbelievers.
“There will be those once united with us in the faith who will search for new, strange doctrines, for something odd and sensational, to present to the people. They will bring in all conceivable fallacies, and will present them as coming from Mrs. White, that they may beguile souls. The light that the Lord has given me should be in the hands of our people, that they may see that the reports made are false, that there is in the testimonies nothing of what these men declare to be in them.
“The precious light that the Lord has given in reproof and warning is to be given to His people. Errors will be corrected by the messages given to the erring. The Spirit of the Lord will be in the message, and doubts existing in many minds will be swept away. The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the message given. Many will read with eagerness the messages reproving wrong, that they may learn what they must do to be saved. From all directions will come the cry, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ [Acts 16:30.] Light will dawn upon the understanding, and the Spirit of God will make an impression on minds as Bible truth is clearly and simply presented in the messages that since 1846 God has been sending His people. These messages are to find their place in hearts, and then transformation will take place.
“The spiritual growth of many has been dwarfed. They have not brought forth in their lives the fruits of righteousness and peace and joy, but have been as the fruitless fig tree. If those who have received the light will appreciate and respect the testimonies of the Lord, they will see the religious life in a new light. They will be convicted. They will see the key that unlocks the mysteries that they have never understood. They will lay hold of the precious things that God has given them to profit withal and will be translated from the kingdom of darkness into God’s marvellous light. The messages that have come to them will be to them as a voice speaking from heaven. The light will shine forth line upon line, precept upon precept, as represented by Isaiah in the words, ‘Whom shall He teach knowledge? and whom shall He make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, here a little, and there a little.’” [Isaiah 28:9, 10.]
This morning, after I had talked with Willie, we received from Elder Daniells and Dr. Kellogg the following message, “Peace established according to Ephesians 2:14-22.” I am so thankful to our heavenly Father that the Holy Spirit has wrought to bring about unity and love.
I must stop now. I cannot write more today, but at another time I will send you more upon the same subject upon which I have written in this letter.
Lt 72, 1903
Watson, Addie S.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 28, 1903
Mrs. Addie S. Watson
Rome, Maine
My dear sister,—
I have received your letter telling of your discouragement. I write to tell you not to look on the dark side, not to think or talk unbelief. Study the following Scripture:
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God; when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? … Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. … Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of Thy waterspouts; all Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over me. Yet the Lord will command His lovingkindness in the day time, and in the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. I will say unto God my rock, Why hast Thou forgotten me? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? As a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where is thy God? Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” [Psalm 42:1-3, 5, 7-11.]
My sister, our Saviour is a present help in every time of need. Do not distrust Him. Do not take your troubles to human beings. Take them to the Lord. You may think that others should sympathize with you in your downcast feelings, but you will sometimes be disappointed. Jesus never disappoints one who comes to Him for help.
Are you one that makes mistakes? Go to Jesus, and ask Him to forgive you, and then believe that He does. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:9.] Ask the Lord to pardon your errors. Then rejoice in Him. It will not help you in the least to keep mourning over your defects. Say, “Lord, I cast my helpless soul on Thee, and Thee alone. I will not worry, because Thou hast said, ‘Ask, and ye shall receive.’” [John 16:24.] Believe that you do receive. Believe that your Saviour is full of compassion, full of tender pity and love. Let not little mishaps trouble you. Small mistakes may be ordered by the Lord to save you from making larger mistakes.
Act your part in helping yourself, as all must do who would be blessed. Believe that Christ helps you. Refuse to speak a word of unbelief. When the enemy tells you that the Lord has forsaken you, tell him that you know He has not; for He declares, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.]
Jesus says, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.] Then, my sister, dismiss the enemy. Tell him that you will not dishonor God by doubting His mercy, His goodness, His love. Never argue with Satan; for he has wonderful powers of deception. If, when he went to Adam and Eve, they had kept repeating the words of God, saying, “He hath said, and I believe His word; I will not distrust Him,” they would not have been overcome.
Instead of bemoaning your weakness and talking unbelief and feeling that you are hardly used, begin to sing. Talk of the mercy and love of God. To all who labor and are heavy laden Christ gives the invitation, “Come unto Me, … and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] This is the lesson that Christ desires you to learn, and in learning it you will find rest.
When discouraging words are spoken to you, do not reply unless you can return a pleasant answer. When you are tried and tempted by unkind words, do not retaliate. Say to yourself, “I will not disappoint my Saviour.” Every man who is a Christian is a gentleman; and every woman who is a Christian is a gentlewoman. The law of kindness is ever on the lips of the Christian woman. She utters no hasty words. To speak gentle words when you feel irritated will bring sunshine into your heart and will make your path more smooth. A school girl, in answer to a question, said, “Meek people are those who give soft answers to rough questions.” Christ says, “Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.” [Matthew 5:5.] They will be fit subjects for the kingdom of heaven, because they are willing to be taught.
You say that your husband is not yet converted to the truth. Show him in your life the advantage of taking Christ at His word. By patience, forbearance, and kindness you may win your husband to the Saviour.
In the power of God’s grace you may obtain most precious victories. You are not to treat your life as a romance, but as a reality. You are to be a laborer together with God in forming a character that He can approve. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Does the charge end there?—No, no, thank God! “For it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] You are to be a co-worker with Him in the saving of your soul. You are to will to do the will of God. Then do not spend your time and strength in murmuring, in talking unbelief and finding fault with God. Encourage confidence in Him. Speak kindly of Him. Honor Him who “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.]
Be sure to perform your smallest duties in the fear and love of God, with faithfulness and cheerfulness. God declares, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] Faithfully discharge your home duties, and then leave yourself with God, saying, “I commit the keeping of my soul to Him. I will not take the ordering of my life out of His hands. I will leave myself in His keeping.”
Study the life that Christ lived while on this earth. He did not disregard the simplest, smallest duty that fell to Him. Perfection marked all that He did. Look to Jesus for help, and this will enable you to perform your daily duties with the grace and dignity of one who is seeking for a crown of immortal life.
We dwell much on the grandeur of Christ’s life. We speak of the great things that He accomplished, of the miracles that He wrought, speaking peace to the tempestuous waters, opening the ears of the deaf, raising the dead. But His attention to small things is even higher proof of His greatness and His compassion. Listen to Him speaking to Martha as she comes to Him with the request that He bid her sister help her with the serving. He entreated her not to allow the cares of her household to disturb the peace of her soul. “Martha, Martha,” He said, “thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” [Luke 10:41, 42.]
Listen to the words that He spoke as the weary mothers brought their children to Him to be blessed. The disciples, unwilling that their Master should be disturbed, were sending the mothers away. But Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And taking them in His arms, He blessed them. Could the future of these children be opened before us, we would see the mothers recalling to their minds the scene of that day and repeating to them the loving words of the Saviour. We would see, too, how often, in after years, the memory of these words kept them from straying from the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord.
Think of the wonderful words that Christ spoke to one woman in Samaria. He was sitting by Jacob’s well as this woman came there to draw water. Christ asked a favor of her. “Give Me to drink,” He said. [John 4:7.] He wanted a cool draught, and He wanted also to open the way whereby He might give to her the water of life.
“How is it,” said the woman, “that Thou being a Jew askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.” Jesus answered, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give Me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water. … Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again; but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life.” [Verses 9, 10, 13, 14.]
How much interest Christ manifested in this one woman! How earnest and eloquent were His words! When the woman heard them, she left her water pot and went into the city, saying to her friends, “Come, see a man which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” We read that “many of the Samaritans of that city believed on Him.” [Verses 29, 39.] And who can estimate the influence that these words have exerted for the saving of souls in the years that have passed since then?
My sister, this same Jesus is your Saviour. Have faith in Him. He is acquainted with your every trouble. Take your burdens to the Burden-bearer, and leave them with Him, knowing that He will carry them for you. He is the Christ, the One who bears the sins of the world. I say to you, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]
In obedience to God there is a converting, sanctifying grace that makes a wicked man a Christian. God asks us to believe in Him as One able to save from all sin. And He asks us to bring into our lives the grace that will keep us from sin. There is no limit to the measure of grace that Christ is willing to bestow on us. He can give you grace that will enable you to show to the world that Christianity is a divine system which uplifts and ennobles human beings.
All that God expects of you and all other Christians is that you live out your profession. Show that Christ’s word is true, that He can keep human beings from sin. Conform your life to His pure, beautiful, holy life. Obey His commandments. This will bring you practical godliness.
Do not dwell upon the hardships of the Christian life. Do not talk of your trials; for if you do, you will become more and more inclined to complain of God. Talk of the love of Christ, bringing it into your heart and life. Be thankful that the Lord has spared you, that you have not been cut off without having gained a preparation for entrance into the heavenly kingdom, where there is no sin, no sorrow. You have only one life in which to perfect a Christian character. If you reveal the grace of God in your character, if the law of kindness is ever on your lips, if you constantly thank the Lord for His goodness to you, you are preparing to praise Him in the home above.
My sister, the Lord asks you to speak no unkind words of your Saviour. Come to Him in faith and trust. Be cheerful. Bring all the sunshine possible into your life. Jesus is your helper. Trust Him all the time. Leave with Him all your perplexities. Do not speak one despondent word; for such words please Satan. When he puts into your mind thoughts of discouragement, talk of Christ’s goodness and tell of His power. Words of trust and hope and thankfulness are as easily spoken as words of distrust and complaint. Close the windows of the soul earthward, and open them heavenward. Put away all repining, and rejoice in the Lord; and then write me another letter, telling me whether you do not feel His light and love and joy in your soul.
Your sister in Christ.
Lt 73, 1903
Brn. in the Ministry and Medical Missionary Work
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
April 24, 1903
To my brethren in the ministry and in the medical missionary work,—
Since returning from Conference I have been almost prostrated by a severe cold contracted in Oakland. For a time there seemed to be a sleepy lethargy upon me, and although I slept more than the usual number of hours during the night, yet during the day I would fall asleep pen in hand.
Ever since returning from the Conference, there has been upon me a burden that I cannot find words to describe. At night time and during the day, by myself, and at family worship, I have prayed most earnestly that God would show me what to do. About a week ago I was instructed to leave my case, with all my perplexities and difficulties with the Lord.
During the years that my life has been devoted to the work of God, from my first experience in it, the Lord has been giving me special light. By His Spirit He has given messages of warning and reproof, consolation and uplifting, to preserve in the earth the principles of heaven and to magnify the distinctive features of true godliness. That which has been presented to me from time to time, here a little and there a little, is of the greatest consequence to the people of God. Much of this instruction is in manuscripts, and much that has been published in our periodicals is not accessible to those who need it. I have been instructed to gather up the precious testimonies that God has given to correct evil and publish them in book form, in the least expensive way, that our people may have them for study and reference, and that they may become better acquainted with the way in which, these many years, the Lord has been directing His people.
As the testimonies of warning and reproof are brought before our people, they will be a savor of life unto life to many who have not known of them. They will help them to avoid making mistakes. Many of our people are ignorant of the way in which the Lord has tried to save our institutions from corrupting influences and from the false judgment of men who have refused to be converted. God will be honored as the testimonies are presented which show how plainly He has spoken against the principle that He cannot endorse, and how decidedly He has exalted the pure, sacred principles that are in harmony with His Word.
The articles that from week to week are printed in our papers are soon forgotten, because there are so many things to divert the minds of the readers. These articles are to be gathered together, reprinted in book form, and placed before believers and unbelievers.
While at the Conference in Oakland I suffered the most intense mental agony. At times it seemed to me that I could not live, to think that the cause of God bears so much the imperfection of human minds, and that I must open before the world the faulty character of much of the work done for the last twenty-five years. I thought, What will be the result of doing this? Then the word came, You have a message to bear to the churches. It is not possible that the dishonor that has been brought upon the cause and work of God will escape the notice of the world. The reproofs and warnings that God has given must be published, that it may be seen how elevated is the position that He designed His cause and work to occupy in the world. The instruction of the past and of the present, which God has given to make His people pure and keep them pure, must be placed on record. The Lord is greatly displeased by the manifestation of pride and selfishness that for years has been seen in His work. He is dishonored by the low ebb of piety and sanctified ability. Soon every possible effort will be made to discount and pervert the truth of the testimonies of God’s Spirit. We must have in readiness the clear, straight messages that since 1846 have been coming to God’s people. There will be those once united with us in the faith who will search for new, strange doctrines, for something odd and sensational to present to the people. They will bring in all conceivable fallacies and will present them as coming from Mrs. White, that they may beguile souls. The light that the Lord has given should be in the hands of our people, so that they may see that the reports made are false, that there is in the testimonies nothing of what these men declare to be in them.
Those who have treated the light that the Lord has given as a common thing will not be benefitted by the instruction presented. There are those who will misinterpret the messages that God has given, in accordance with their spiritual blindness. Some will yield their faith and will deny the truth of the messages, pointing to them as falsehoods. Some will hold them up to ridicule, working against the light that God has been giving for years, and some who are weak in the faith will thus be led astray. But others will be greatly helped by the messages. Though not personally addressed, they will be corrected and will be led to shun the evils specified. Their errors will be reproved by the warnings given to the erring. The Spirit of the Lord will be in the instruction, and doubts existing in many minds will be swept away. The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the messages given, as Scripture is explained by Scripture. Many will read with eagerness the messages reproving wrong, that they may learn what they may do to be saved. From all directions will come the cry, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Light will dawn upon the understanding, and the Spirit will make an impression on minds, as Bible truth is clearly and simply presented in the messages that since 1846 God has been sending His people. These messages are to find their place in hearts, and transformation will take place.
The spiritual growth of many has been dwarfed. They have not brought forth in their lives the fruits of righteousness and peace and joy, but have been as the fruitless fig tree. If those who have received the light will respect and appreciate the testimonies of the Lord’s Spirit, they will see the religious life in a new light. They will lay hold of the precious things that God has given them and will be translated from the kingdom of darkness into God’s marvelous light. The messages that come to them will be to them as a voice speaking from heaven.
Lt 74, 1903
Brethren in Battle Creek
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 1, 1903
To my brethren in Battle Creek,—
I am bowed down and greatly troubled. I am in sore distress. My whole being is full of pain. At times it seems to me that I can not live. The thought of the terrible spiritual destitution among our people presses heavily upon me. God’s judgments have fallen upon our institutions in Battle Creek; but how little has this done to move hearts to repentance! Must the rebuke of God still continue to be felt, and will it still continue to be without effect? I am amazed at the apparent indifference of many who should see and understand. I know not what to say or do. Seeing that the judgments of God have made so light an impression on the minds of those occupying important positions, fear and trembling takes hold of me as to what will be the next revelation of God’s displeasure.
Men have dishonored God by choosing their own way. They have brought into His institutions principles that He has condemned. They would not change the ways and works that displeased Him and belittled the testing truth for these last days.
Those who have disregarded the messages of warning have lost their bearings. Some, in their self-confidence, have dared to turn from that which they knew to be truth, with the words, “Who has told Sister White?” These words show the measure of their faith and confidence in the work that the Lord has given me to do. They have before them the result of the work that the Lord has laid upon me; and if this does not convince them, no arguments, no future revelations would affect them. The result will be that God will speak again in judgment as He has spoken heretofore. When for years His messages of warnings have come to institutions and individuals, and no special heed is taken, what power will convince them? Only the power of God revealed in judgment. Yet His hand is stretched out still to save, if thorough repentance is shown.
We need to watch and pray, lest we enter into temptation. On one occasion, as Christ was returning to Jerusalem from a missionary tour, He was speaking to those with Him about the personal salvation that all must have who enter the kingdom of heaven. His words were becoming decidedly personal and very pointed, and one present, wishing to change the subject, said, “Lord, are there few that be saved?” Then He said, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us; and He shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence you are; then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets. But He shall say, I tell you I know not whence ye are; depart from Me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.” [Luke 13:23-30.]
In the great day of God, to many who make the entreaty, “Lord, Lord, open unto us,” the answer will come, “I know not whence you are, depart from Me.” [Verses 25, 27.]
There is a right way and a wrong way, and in one or the other each human being is following. Those who truly believe in Christ live a life of holy obedience. They are sanctified through the truth. Their piety is not a pretense, but a reality. They have a sanctified Christian experience in holy living.
Let us make sure that we are perfecting Christian characters through belief of the truth. We cannot be too particular in regard to this. If we fail here, our life work will bring us no reward. Those who believe in Christ and give up their will and their plans for God’s will and God’s plans enter upon a life of Christlikeness. This is the only way to gain salvation.
Lt 74a, 1903
Christenson, C.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 5, 1903
Mrs. C. Christenson
Sebastopol, California
Dear Sister,—
I was glad to receive your letter of April 29 in which you told me of your interest in the Southern field. I am glad to know that your heart is drawn out toward that work.
The printing office in Nashville has been established in the providence of God in a place where its influence can tell mightily in behalf of the work for the white people and also for the colored people in the great South. The buildings are large enough to accommodate the work which ought to be done, and with a few additional facilities they can print and bind many books.
You will recognize that I have confidence in the work of the Southern Publishing Association when I tell you that I have loaned them some money and that I am planning to give them some of my books for publication. I feel free, my sister, to recommend you to make a loan to the Southern Publishing Association as proposed in your letter. I look for a great work to be done in this office.
Yours in the Master’s service.
Lt 75, 1903
Drier, Marian
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 7, 1903
Dear sister Marian Maynard Drier,—
I have received and read your letter and will try to answer it. My sister, I understand something about the state of your mind. The other day I wrote a letter to a poor, tempted soul, and I will send you a copy of this letter.
To each one of us has been given the great blessing of being God’s little child. Why, then, should we be unhappy? We are all afflicted with the malady of sin, but we have a Saviour who can take away our sin; for in Him is no sin. We all have many difficulties to meet, many problems to solve. Many try to escape from their difficulties by doing various things. But only by coming to Christ can poor, erring human beings find peace and happiness and help.
There is a remedy for you, Marian. Do not look on the dark side. There is a bright side. It is your privilege to be pleasant and cheerful and to believe the precious promises of God. Remember that you are one of the heavenly Father’s little children. The dear Saviour loves you, and He does not want you to bring distress into your heart by thinking that your case is hopeless.
You will never find relief while you keep your eyes fastened on yourself. I offer you a sure remedy. Look ever to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Will you not try this remedy? You will find that it is efficacious. Christ invites you, “Come unto Me; … and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
I want you to begin to realize more fully than you have ever done before that Jesus is the Sin-bearer. He came to this world as the great Medical Missionary, and He says to you, “Lay on Me your burden of sin. I have become the Sin-bearer.” He lived in our behalf a life of perfect obedience, and in our behalf He shed His precious blood on the cross; and He clothes repentant sinners with His robe of righteousness. He would have you realize more fully His power to save to the uttermost all who come to Him. He will take you under His watchcare. He loves you. He will accept you and set you apart to His service. He does not cast you off when you make mistakes. He does not want you to look on the dark side and talk unbelief, but to look on the bright side, my dear, afflicted sister. By the indwelling of His Spirit, He will make you more than a conqueror through Him that loved you and gave Himself for you.
When you look at yourself, darkness comes into your soul. Look to Jesus. He is your righteousness and your light. Cast your helpless soul upon Him. If you throw yourself upon His mercy, you will surely receive blessings. Your efforts to help yourself will be of no avail. Come to the precious Saviour in faith, saying, “In my hands no price I bring; simply to Thy cross I cling.” He will reach out His divine hand and lift you up.
Speak cheerful words until this becomes familiar language to you. Commit the keeping of your soul to Christ. Show that you believe that you are His little child. Speak cheerful, hopeful words, and the Lord will help you. Never, never give way to fear. Be joyful in God. The Bible reveals our fallen condition, and it also reveals Christ as our Saviour. His salvation is for you. “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God,” but Christ declares, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” [Romans 3:23; John 6:37.]
You have no power in yourself to save yourself. You know this. Christ is your Redeemer. He will save you. He has purchased you; you are His property. Then do not wrench yourself away from Him. We ought to be thankful every moment of our lives that an atonement has been made for us. When we were yet without hope, Christ died for us. Say, “I believe that He died for me. I claim Him as my Saviour.” Lay hold of the riches of His grace, saying, “I will believe, I do believe that Jesus died for me.”
From the cross of Calvary there come to us liberty, hope, and encouragement. No longer dishonor Christ by showing unbelief. The prospect may seem dark, but God can make it light. When the enemy tells you that you have sinned, and that there is no hope for you, resist his temptation, saying, “Get thee behind me, Satan. Sin shall not have dominion over me.” [See Luke 4:8; Romans 6:14.]
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” [1 John 2:1-3.]
May the Lord bless you, and help you, and strengthen you by His rich grace, is my most earnest prayer. Look no longer on the dark side. The Lord Jesus is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. Then look toward the light. Educate your lips to speak the praise of God. Thus you will glorify His name.
Lt 76, 1903
Drier, Brother
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 7, 1903
Dear Brother Drier,—
I have read the letter that you wrote me, and I will now try to respond. I wish to say to you, my brother, that the Lord would have you treat your wife very tenderly. I am instructed to say that it is not true that your wife has committed the unpardonable sin. She is afflicted with hopeless feelings and has lost her faith that Christ loves her. But she is one of the Lord’s little ones, and you must be very careful to lay no stumbling block in her way.
The idea that she has been forsaken by the Lord is a device of the enemy to destroy her faith. You must both unite in seeking the Lord in earnest prayer to lift this cloud from her. Humble your heart before Him, my brother, and be sure always to treat your wife with love and kindness. In the home follow a course that will increase her confidence in you as a true, faithful servant of Christ. Have you been as faithful as you should to keep your home life elevated? There is danger of your failing to be cleansed and sanctified in your home life. Act so consistently that your wife will not be tempted to question your piety or your Christianity.
It is not necessary that you and your wife should separate. If you will, you can help your wife. Be a true, faithful Christian. Bring all the encouragement to your wife that you can. Show her that you love her. Never give her the slightest cause to think that you have lost your love for her. Make every effort to bring sunshine into her life. Let her see that you value her. Make a special effort to lift the cloud that is hanging over her; for thus Satan is trying to deceive her.
To whom shall we go with our troubles but to Christ? You may also add, “Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” [John 6:68, 69.] Bring Christ into your home as an honored guest. Talk of His love and His goodness. Your standard of what a Christian should be is too low. Your conversation must be in heaven, whence we look for the Saviour.
Christ’s life, His death, His resurrection, His ascension are not mere theories, but facts, testifying that in Him alone there is power to save. O my brother, your finite capacity of perception and knowledge may be greatly increased by a daily practice of the truth. Speak the truth in love. The mercy, the love, the sympathy that dwelt in the heart of Christ needs to be constantly cherished in your heart. Christ is to appear, not merely in occasional remarks, but in all that you say and do, because you value His love. You need greater refinement and deeper, more constant spirituality. As you bring Christ into your life, the sanctifying, purifying influence of His Spirit will be sure to appear in your words and acts, in your home life and in your church work.
I ask you, Will you not change decidedly in your words and manners? God’s love is not only to be talked of, but brought into the daily life. You are to reveal Christ wherever you are. But your first work is to reveal Him in your home. By bringing into the home life consideration, tenderness, thoughtfulness, and unselfish love, you will gain an experience that will make you a blessing wherever you go. I ask you to exert in your home an influence that is soul-saving. Encourage your wife. This service, done for the sake of one who needs it, will be acceptable to God.
Do not presume upon the forbearance of God. Kneel before Him with your wife, and ask Him to give you both His grace, His love, His peace, that you may be what God desires you to be to one another.
Make it your first business to help Marian. Do not disparage her. Be a help and a blessing to the little church in your own home, and then God will make you a blessing to the church in other places. In your home pray to God and humble your heart before Him. Then go to the assembly of His people to exalt and glorify Him. Do not talk unbelief. Talk a noble, uplifting faith, that will bring you both rich blessing. Say, I will not fail nor become discouraged. Try God’s plan, and then write and tell me if your experience does not change.
Lt 77, 1903
Drier, Brother and Sister
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 8, 1903
My dear brother and sister,—
This morning I have read over the letters I have written you, and I will now write a letter to you both. Do not for one moment think of separating. See how much of the precious graces of the Spirit you can each bring into your lives. Soon we shall see the King in His beauty. In this life we are to get a fitting up that will enable us to act a part in the future life. Remember that the eye of Christ is upon you both. He says, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Study His life and follow His example. Never give way to your feelings, but move from a consciousness that Christ is your only hope. Commune with Him. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] Take your position on the side of God. See in the beauty and perfection of His created works a revelation of His power and goodness and majesty. He desires to form in each of you a character like His own perfect character, that your record in the books of heaven may be, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]
Remember that in your treatment of one another, you are to reveal the gentleness of Christ. Love dies unless it is kept watered with words of encouragement.
“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [Psalm 103:13.] The strength of the Lord is revealed by His gentleness and condescension and by His incarnation. He was “God manifest in the flesh.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] Think of the love He manifested in receiving so kindly the mothers that the disciples would have sent away when they came bringing their children to Him that He might lay His hands on them and bless them. “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” He said to the disciples; “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]
That same Jesus speaks to you both today, saying, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Marian, dear child, you are invited to come to Jesus. He will give you, Marian Maynard Drier, rest in Him. He will heal your infirmities. He will inspire you with hope. He will fill your heart with His love and compassion.
Have faith in Jesus. Cultivate trust in Him. Do your best every day, and each day you will be enabled to do better. Life and immortality are before you. Press on to reach the standard that God has set before you. Learn of Christ; you will then be a blessing to one another in the daily life. You can glorify God by bearing daily inconveniences uncomplainingly. Sing to the Lord. Pray to Him in faith. Come before Him with thanksgiving. Make one another happy. This is your first work. Be pleasant to one another. This will strengthen the best traits of character. Throw the windows of the soul wide open heavenward, and let the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness in. Morning, noon, and night your heart may be filled with the bright beams of divine light.
Do not find fault with one another. This will encourage the enemy to enter. You can help one another if you will exercise tact and ingenuity and wisdom. Speak kind, affectionate words. Never utter a word of blame or censure. Blend together in union, and God will water your souls with the dew of heaven.
A fountain has been opened for Judah and Jerusalem, and Christ invites you to come and drink. No one who comes to this fountain goes away unhealed. Come, my dear sister, just as you are. Christ invites you to come and be healed. The fountain is open, and it is ever flowing for all. Then believe, believe. Receive the blessing that God has for you, and rejoice in His love.
Lt 78, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
Oakland, California
March, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
We are in the midst of our Conference. For a time I thought I would not attend. The Lord alone knows how severely my strength was taxed during the council meetings which were held last October in Battle Creek, though I did not go to them. Night after night for about four weeks, I was unable to sleep after twelve o’clock. My soul was burdened as a cart beneath sheaves. I knew that a crisis had come in the work of Seventh-day Adventists, and that unless right moves were made, we should be brought into very strait and difficult places. For three nights many things were presented to me. One night I saw as it were a flaming sword of fire stretched out over Battle Creek. So heavily burdened was I that the agonies of death seemed to be upon me. I cried, “Lord, have mercy upon Thy erring people. O God, save for Thy mercy’s sake.”
When I received the news that the office of the Review and Herald had been burned, but that no lives had been lost, I could but feel a sense of relief, and say, “Lord, in Thy wrath Thou hast remembered mercy.” [See Habakkuk 3:2.]
But the destruction of our Review and Herald office is not to be lightly regarded. For many years, and especially for the last twenty years, the Lord has been sending warnings to His people, but these messages have been little heeded. What else could we expect than that God should in a signal manner manifest His displeasure?
Every act in the service of God should be performed in the Lord’s way. Those working in connection with the cause of God should not permit one act of injustice to be seen in their business transactions.
The Lord was in the establishment of the Review and Herald office in Battle Creek. And until the men in positions of trust in that institution transgressed the principles of God’s law, a good work was done there. But there were brought into connection with the office men who in character and disposition did not represent Christ. God says, “I hate robbery for burnt offering.” [Isaiah 61:8.]
Twice during His earthly ministry, Jesus cleansed the temple, driving out those engaged in robbery and oppression. At the beginning of His ministry He entered the temple. He was the originator and founder of the whole system of Jewish economy. All the sacrifices were types of the great Offering who now stood in His temple. But how dishonoring to God the scene that met His eye. A large number of sacrifices were offered at the time of the Passover, and the sales at the temple were very large. The priests and rulers having bought cattle and other animals at very low cost were selling them at exorbitant prices to those who had come a long distance and were compelled to buy animals for sacrifice. Here could be heard sharp bargaining, the lowing of cattle, the bleating of sheep, the cooing of doves mingled with the clinking of coin and angry disputation.
As Jesus came into the temple, He took in the whole scene. He saw the unfair transactions. He saw the distress of the poor who thought that without shedding of blood there would be no remission of sins. He saw the outer court of His temple converted into a place of unholy traffic. Christ saw that something must be done. Raising the scourge of small cords, gathered up on entering the enclosure, He bids the bargaining company depart from the precincts of the temple. With a zeal and severity He has never before manifested, He overthrows the tables of the money changers. The coin falls, ringing sharply upon the marble pavement. None presume to question His authority. None dare stop to gather up their ill-gotten gain. Jesus does not smite them with the whip of cords, but in His hand, that simple scourge seems terrible as a flaming sword. Officers of the temple, speculating priests, brokers and cattle traders with their sheep and oxen rush from the place with the one thought of escaping from the condemnation of His presence.
Once again Jesus cleansed the temple courts. He drove from them those who were desecrating them, saying, “It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” [Matthew 21:13.]
Lt 79, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 7, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
I have received and read your letters. I can write but a short letter in reply, as I am unable to tax my head or my eyes too severely. I feel very grateful to my heavenly Father that He comes very near to me and strengthens me by His rich grace.
The burdens I carried at the Conference taxed my strength severely, but the Lord strengthened me, and I had evidence that He had a work for me there. As I was unable to walk to the meetings, and could not conveniently get the use of a horse and carriage, I was taken to and from the church in a comfortable wheel chair rented from a secondhand furniture store.
I spoke several times before the large congregation gathered in the Oakland church. The second Sabbath I was in doubt as to the advisability of attempting to speak, as I had contracted a severe cold. But I dared not remain at home; so I said, I will place myself in a position to speak, and then, if I am unable, I will be humble enough to refrain from speaking. I found the church crowded. To the praise of God, upheld and sustained by His power, I was enabled to speak for an hour and a quarter. Some who for forty years have frequently heard me speak said they had never before heard me give so powerful a discourse. No one could doubt that the power of God rested upon me. Before I took my seat, I asked all to rise to their feet who would seek to meet the mind of the Holy Spirit, and pledge themselves by God’s help to put away all murmuring and complaining and all evil speaking; who would cease to hinder one another by setting a wrong example. Nearly all in the congregation rose, testifying that they would seek to advance the work of God instead of hindering it.
Then we knelt, and as my soul was drawn out in earnest prayer, the congregation realized that the power of God was upon me. I had much reason to be thankful that the Lord so evidently sustained me. I asked the congregation to sing, “Rock of ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.” This hymn was a prayer to God in which all could join, and I know that angels of God united with the petition that rose from so many hearts and voices.
I was sustained during all the time I was at the Conference; and a few days before the close of the gathering, I returned to St. Helena. The strain upon me had been heavy.
Since the Conference, the brethren have been in council at Battle Creek. I have been greatly encouraged to hear from the brethren there that unity and love exist among them. This is a great victory.
I hope that there may not be a shadow of discord at our Sanitarium in Sydney. I would say, Constantly draw near to God; and when you are all one with Christ, you will be united in holy, Christian fellowship.
We each need the help we can receive from other minds. God will work in other minds than ours. The various gifts given to different ones are to blend for the “perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:11, 12.]
I have been instructed to say to our medical missionary workers in America that the yoke of forms and ceremonies must be broken from their necks. Our medical missionary work has been sick and in need of a physician.
The Lord Jesus Christ will heal our infirmities and our weaknesses. He owns us. We are His by creation and by redemption. We must all be united in Him. He is the only source of healing. All restoring power comes from Him. He has opened a fountain “to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.” [Zechariah 13:1.] He gives each one an invitation to come and be healed and to drink of the water of life. Let us not trust in ourselves, but in Jesus.
There will always be obstacles before us, but we are to follow our Leader, meeting our difficulties unitedly, hand in hand. There is only one way to heaven. We must walk in the footsteps of Jesus, doing His works, even as He did the works of His Father. We must study His ways, not man’s ways; we must obey His will, not our own. Walk carefully. Do not go ahead of Christ. Make no move without consulting your Leader. Ask in humble prayer, and “ye shall receive.” He is “the Way, the Truth, the Life.” [John 16:24; 14:6.]
Read and study carefully the prayer that Christ offered just before His trial, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. Follow its teachings, and you will be brought into unity. Our only hope of reaching heaven is to be one with Christ, and then in and through Christ we shall be one with one another. No one is called to walk alone. In Christ life and immortality are brought to light. He has opened the way to the kingdom of heaven to those who believe in Him, but He assigns to no one a path different to that which all must travel. He calls for unity, and unity we must have. God asks us to sink self in Christ. For the natural man this is not easy. But through the power of the incarnation of Christ, God manifest in the flesh, the strength of God is revealed in gentleness and beauty. To “as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] By this power we may overcome our evil tendencies and so modify our imperfect dispositions, that the will of God may be fulfilled in us.
We are all God’s little children, members of one family. We must each be refreshed by the same living stream, that we may find true elevation of soul. We must all be united when we reach the heavenly courts.
We are to be one with Christ. He is our pattern. We are commanded to be “followers of God, as dear children.” [Ephesians 5:1.] Our liberty is found in wearing Christ’s yoke. “Follow Me,” He says, “in humble, practical obedience. If you walk by yourself the obstacles in the road will be insurmountable. Believe in Me. Commit the keeping of your soul to Me.”
I wish to speak particularly in reference to the establishment of food stores in various places. I have no light that this is your work. It is not clearly defined to me as the work for which you are best qualified.
If you can connect with the Doctors Kress, this will be of great benefit both to you and to them. The Lord would have you labor together in unity, even though your ideas and plans are not exactly alike. Men and women of different dispositions must unite in labor, working without contention or strife. Both you and Doctor Kress should stand in a conciliatory position. Remember that no one is free from mistakes. May the Lord help you, my dear friends.
Now let me speak as a mother to you both. You ought not to be troubled with dyspepsia if you partake of simply prepared food and eat nothing between meals. Let your stomach rest when you sleep. A tainted breath and a coated tongue indicate that undigested food is lying in the stomach.
Let not your work show the effect of errors in diet. This is not health reform. I am instructed to tell you that the Lord would have you improve your dietetic habits. You need to study carefully what foods you are best able to digest. For years you have been doing injury to your digestive organs, and you now need to exercise care. Unless by correct habits you place yourself on the list of health reformers, you cannot properly do the work of the Lord. You should stand where you can be of the greatest use in His cause.
Lt 80, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 8, 1903
Dr. J. H. Kellogg
My dear brother,—
I received your letter, also one from Elder Daniells. It made my heart very thankful to know that our brethren are doing all they possibly can to come into unity. May the Lord lead them on step by step.
I have begun several letters to you but have been hindered from finishing them. The responsibilities at this time rest upon me heavily. They seem tremendous, and I lay down my pen and feel like weeping. The day before yesterday, between one and two o’clock in the morning, I was greatly blessed. I was given the assurance that the everlasting arms were round about me. I praised the Lord with heart and soul and then went from my sleeping room to my office and walked the room, rejoicing in my Saviour and in my heavenly Father for giving Christ to our world.
We have much to be thankful for. I am especially thankful for the present movement of the brethren in Battle Creek to become one with Christ in God. For several months I have been writing almost constantly, trying to present before our people that which the Lord has given me for them. Again and again it has been urged upon me to present to them that which has been presented to me. I thought that it might be that my work was about to close up, and that this was the reason that the charge was made so urgent; and I have written for the eternal interest of all who desire to know what is truth.
There are many who will sell their eternal interests for worldly favors. On every side there will be oppression. The leaven of evil will be introduced by those who are not spiritual-minded, those who are not molded and fashioned after the divine similitude. Confidence placed in any one but God will blight and wither.
The Word of God does not repress activity, but guides us aright, pointing out sanctified methods for the accomplishment of the work that is to save souls. It presents to us a work that if done faithfully will make us worthy of the immortal inheritance. God knows exactly what each man needs to enable him to rise in moral value. He puts the Bible into his hands—a light that is not to be ignored or set aside as of no special importance. “Search the Scriptures,” Christ says, “for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] The Word of God tells man how he may become an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ to an immortal inheritance. Knowing that it is man’s nature to accumulate and amass, God in His Word reveals to him the unsearchable riches, an inexhaustible treasure. Knowing that man’s strongest impulse is to stand on vantage ground before all, God points out to him an ambition that he may safely cherish. “I will make a man more precious than fine gold,” He declares, “even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.]
It is that man may obtain the life that measures with the life of God that the Lord breaks up his worldly, ambitious projects, which, if permitted to engross the mind, would unfit him for the future world.
God is testing every one of us. He entrusts us with talents, to see whether we will be thoroughly unselfish in the use we make of them. He tells us plainly, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” “And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?” [Luke 16:10, 12.]
Let us remember that we are to be tried by the laws of Christ’s kingdom. We are not our own to do with ourselves as we please. We have been bought with a price, and the laws of Christ’s kingdom, the ten holy precepts, present the standard that we are to reach. God is jealous of His law. He tests every man to see whether he will obey or not.
Man sinned, and death is the penalty of sin. Christ bore the penalty and secured for man a period of probation. In this time of probation we are now living. We have been given an opportunity to prove ourselves of value in the sight of Him who gave His only begotten Son that we should not perish, but have everlasting life.
One is our Master, even Christ. We are to remember that we are His blood-bought heritage. God’s will is to become our will. Physical, mental, and spiritual gifts have been placed in our possession. In the Bible, God’s will is plainly made known. God expects every man to use his gifts in a way that will give him an increased knowledge of the things of God and will enable him to make improvement, to become more and more refined, ennobled, and purified. In this world men and women are to fit themselves to take their places among the nobility of heaven. In this world they are to prepare for translation into the courts above. Those who take up this work as the Bible directs will, through the grace of Christ, become examples of what all must be who enter in through the gates into the city.
We are to use God’s gifts in a way that will please Him. We are to make real advancement in knowledge and virtue, learning Christ’s meekness and lowliness, wearing His yoke and bearing His burdens. Thus we co-operate with Christ. His followers are to reveal to the world His spotless character, giving an example of the purity and nobility of those who will make up the family of the redeemed. Thus they work out their own salvation, knowing that God is working with them to will and to do of His good pleasure.
Those who remain faithful to God will meet the high standard that He has set up. Thus they will prove that human beings can, through the infinite sacrifice made for them, live pure, holy lives in this world carrying out the principles of the heavenly kingdom.
Those who do not value their high calling, those who do not fulfil God’s purpose for them, who fail of meeting the conditions plainly marked out in His Word, cut themselves loose from God. They prove themselves entirely unfit to serve the interests of their Master. Professing to be Christians, they dishonor Christ. They are doing the works of Satan, and God cannot co-operate with them. Their defects of character are constantly increasing. How can the Lord work with them? How can He place responsibilities in their hands? He can entrust His work to men only who will to do His will, to men who with consecrated hearts keep His commandments.
How can those who do not properly estimate the things that are of eternal interest be safe guides for God’s people? The work that God requires from the leaders and teachers of His people demands eternal vigilance. It demands that men watch for souls as they that must give an account. He who is reckless in regard to his character building will make many others reckless, if he makes an effort to be pleasing to them and to gain their favor.
In all that we do we are to seek the glory of God. We are to be cleansed, renewed, sanctified, made in character like Christ. “They that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you.” [Romans 8:8-11.]
Lt 81, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 8, 1903
This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 70-71.
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have read the letters that came to me from you in the last mail from Australia. I will try to write you a few lines in reply. My left eye must be kept bandaged, because of its weakness and pain, and I cannot read your letters over again; so you must excuse me if I do not speak of all the points you mentioned.
One point stands out clearly before me—the proposition that Elder Starr and his wife connect with you in the Sanitarium. This is just what I was going to propose. They will, I think, be a blessing to you.
The work upon which you have entered so recently will bring new duties, and the faithful performance of these duties will bring new blessings. New trials will come, new dangers and difficulties. You will have new problems to solve. But though a veil hangs over the future, you have a knowledge of the Lord’s mercies in the past. Allow no difficulties to discourage you. You have passed through trials, and you will be called to pass through trials again. You have had to pass through experiences not altogether agreeable, and these experiences may be repeated. Temptations have come to you, and temptations will come to you again.
We know not what is before us; but we know that we have the privilege of committing our souls to God, as unto a faithful Creator. Let us thank God that we have a refuge in trial. Let us remember that Christ is a present help in every time of need. The promises of God’s Word are rich and full and free. God is with us; He cares for us.
God is revealed to us in Christ. Our Saviour is the image of the invisible God. O how near to heaven we may be. “He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father,” Christ declared. [John 14:9.]
Let us allow no worldly business to absorb our energies. Let us allow nothing to occupy the place that God should fill. We must have periods of rest, times set apart for meditation and prayer and for spiritual refreshing. Christ went about doing good, healing all manner of sickness and forgiving all sins, comforting the mourners, banishing sorrow by His presence. Let us behold Him, the very compassion and lovingkindness of God Himself.
Let us seek the Lord. He will be your Helper as you commit the sick ones in the Sanitarium to His care. Rest assured that He will co-operate with those that are connected with the Sanitarium. Never forget that you are God’s little children. Refuse to worry about what you cannot help. If you make mistakes, go to the compassionate Saviour and ask Him for forgiveness. Tell Him that you want to follow His will. Be polite to God. Remember that He cares for you, and that He will be a present help in every time of need. His “tender mercies are over all His works.” [Psalm 145:9.]
It is our privilege to open our hearts and let the Saviour in. Let us praise Him for the brightness of His presence. Let us carry the sunshine of His love on our countenances and bring it into our words. Then His joy will be in us, and our joy will be full.
There is one thing I wish you to do—you and Brother and Sister Burden and Brother and Sister Starr. Search out what is written in the Scriptures and in the Testimonies on the subject of unity, and read it often. You will be tried by the ways of your fellow workers. Never forget that God’s plan is that there shall be unity in diversity. The breath of the higher life is to be breathed into our lifework. This will bind us to one another and to God. The love of Christ needs to come into our experience. Then we shall love one another as Christ has loved us. I feel an intense desire to see the people of God united by the strong bonds of love and unity.
Lt 82, 1903
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 10, 1903
Dear brother and sister Burden,—
I am very anxious that you should move understandingly. According to the light given me of God, the food business should be carried on for the purpose of educating people to live healthfully and economically, not for financial gain. Each one should learn what foods are best adapted to his own necessities.
We cannot expect that those who come to our sanitariums will be able at once to feel perfectly satisfied with the sudden change in diet. They cannot immediately realize the advantage to be gained. Our managers must exercise wisdom in this matter.
I would not advise the use of meat in our sanitariums, but the patients should be told why it is not provided. In their lectures, the doctors should explain these things.
The quantity of food eaten does not determine the benefit received. Many, even among Seventh-day Adventists, eat too freely. Their health would be much better if they ate less. When too much food is eaten, the stomach is overburdened and is unable to perform its proper functions. The result is that the digestive organs are disordered. If those who have brought themselves to this condition would eat proper food, and about half as much as they have been in the habit of eating, their digestive organs would recover.
In my habits of eating, I have learned to accommodate myself to the circumstances in which I am placed. I was obliged to do this in my earlier experiences. Sometimes when laboring the hardest, speaking before large gatherings two and even three times a day, I have found that I was better fitted for work when I ate but one meal a day. Ordinarily I eat two meals a day, taking breakfast at seven and dinner at half-past one. I never experience a feeling of faintness, except when I have taxed my vocal powers severely. I then take a cold bath as a tonic and lie down. The greatest strain seems to come on my abdominal muscles, which are brought into use when I speak.
Reason from cause to effect, that you may be able to select the food that is best for you. The Lord expects you to treat yourselves as His temple. You can do for yourselves what others cannot do for you. Act intelligently, that you may be kept in the best possible condition of health. Every soul is precious in the sight of God. We must guard the physical structure carefully, lest we defile the temple of God.
Lt 83, 1903
Kellogg, H. W.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 13, 1903
H. W. Kellogg
My dear brother,—
I had almost forgotten that I ought to write to you in regard to lending Edson some money to assist him in publishing a book that he is getting out. He told me that you would be willing to lend him some money, were it not that you had promised some to me to help in purchasing the Potts Sanitarium in San Diego.
I wish to say, Brother Kellogg, that I am afraid that nothing can be done in regard to the purchase of this property until some one who thoroughly understands the matter can be on the ground to take charge of the business. I wish that the property could be purchased, but this seems impossible at the present time. Those on the ground do not seem to be in a position to handle the matter. And I dare not take the responsibility of urging them to go ahead.
I think that I shall <now> let this matter rest where it is; for I cannot take the responsibility, as I once felt that I could. We thought that perhaps the question of purchasing this property would be taken up at the General Conference, but nothing was said in regard to it.
I am carrying a heavy burden for the work and cause of God. As I see the lack of principle manifested, and the feeble faith that is shown in the message that means so much to us, I am filled with fear. I am now obliged to write some things in regard to the danger of carrying the health food business and the restaurant work to extremes. I have written that restaurants should be established as a means of bringing those who know the truth into touch with the people of the world and of providing opportunities of reaching these people with the message of present truth. Should those attending these restaurants reform in their habits of eating, they would be better prepared to listen to arguments in favor of the truth.
But if by the restaurant work there is not awakened a deep and living interest in the things of eternal importance, what is gained by the work? Christ is hungry for souls, hungry to see those for whom He gave His life receiving the blessings placed within their reach. Shall He have died for them in vain? Satan will use every opportunity to seduce men from their allegiance to God. He and the angels who fell with him will appear on the earth as men, seeking to deceive. God’s angels, also, will appear as men and will use every means in their power to defeat the purposes of the enemy. We, too, have a part to act. We shall surely be overcome unless we fight manfully the battles of the Lord.
It is in order that those who love God and keep His commandments may have as little hindrance as possible in their advancement in the heavenward way, that they are warned not to live in the cities. If by our restaurant work souls are not won to the truth, what is gained by entering so largely into this work, which must be done in the cities? Will the result justify the effort put forth? Will it pay for our young men and young women to spend their time and energy in providing and serving food for worldlings, while they make no effort to save their souls, no effort to lead them to see the light of present truth?
Christ said, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. [John 8:12.] Those who walk in the light of My example, becoming My servants, My imitators, through faith and trust in Me will become sons of God.”
A word further in regard to the point I mentioned at the beginning of this letter. I ask you to lend Edson the money that he needs in order to publish the book that he is getting out. With this book he desires to help the Southern work, and if you can lend him some money now, it will be a great help to him.
I am carrying a very heavy load of debt, much of which I incurred in my effort to establish the work in Australia on right lines. I have been given light that I should own the plates of my books, [that] I may plan wisely for their wide circulation. The Review and Herald owns the plates of several of my books, and I wish to ask you, my brother, whether you would be willing to lend me some money to buy back these plates. I should indeed feel thankful if I could arrange this matter with the Review and Herald. I ask the money as a loan, and I will pay you again; for the Lord will favor me. I have not forgotten the money that I owe you. When you want it, you shall have it.
I must stop now, and I will ask Willie to write you more fully regarding this matter.
Lt 84, 1903
White, J. E.; White, Emma
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 12, 1903
Previously unpublished. +
Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I have just written to H. W. Kellogg, asking him to send you some money to help publish the book you spoke of in your letter to me.
I have been writing many things lately in reference to various features of the work. Each day I have written as long as I have dared. Yesterday when I felt that I could no longer write, I read some of the letters you wrote me a long time ago. I am glad I have these letters. They have all been preserved in a canvas sack. I have read of your experiences in shipbuilding in Allegan, Michigan, and afterwards in operating the boat; of your work with Brother Palmer in Vicksburg and of his being called away. I feel sure that the best way to remove prejudice will be to have this history published. If all would feel as much interest in this history as I have felt while reading it, a great deal of good would be accomplished, and the work in the Southern field would be strengthened. Sara is arranging these letters so that I may read them in order. As I read them, I place them in Bro. Crisler’s hands, who is preparing a section on the Southern work for the next testimony. He will use part of these letters in connection with the letters I have written you. When the matter is prepared, we will send the matter for your examination, that you may correct any mistakes you may see, and add to your letters any points you may think advisable.
I have had so much writing to do that most of the time I am very weary, but I will try to write to you frequently. If you have letters from me that have not been copied, I would be glad if you would send them to me. Most of them have been copied, but I think a few were not.
I am trying to prepare for publication matter that will guard the work on every side so that it may not become disproportionate. We have many things in preparation for publication. We must move cautiously, lest we stir up bitter feelings. But the truth must appear just as it is.
I trust you are of good courage in the Lord. You can best help the work by gaining an experience in bookmaking. I know you are engaged in this work and that the Lord will help you.
Brother Hall from Oakland has been with us today. I have been talking with him in reference to the publication of my books. The Review and Herald is desirous of handling the books I shall bring out, but I have been instructed that I should own and control all the plates of my books. I am not to leave the precious things given me of God to be handled as the managers of any institution may be pleased to handle them. There must be perfect unity, but that unity must be maintained in diversity.
The publishing work is to be divided into many different territories. The Advocate publishers will have the territory that properly belongs to them. The Southern Publishing Company will work its own territory. The Review and Herald will also have its territory, but never again will they or any other company have the exclusive control of my books.
No longer is there to be one center in any branch of the work where men may say, “The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are we.” [Jeremiah 7:4.] The confederacy of power that has ruled for so long according to its selfish idea of superiority is to exist no longer. God has uprooted such claims.
Let those who have heeded the admonitions and counsels and appeals of God be respected. Unless there is in deed and in truth a decided reformation among our leading brethren, they will not be prepared to judge righteously, deal mercifully, or walk humbly with God. This reformation is the only hope for our institutions. Truth, precious truth, must be enthroned in the heart to wield the scepter of righteousness. The Lord will save all who will imitate His character.
Our message is a solemn, sacred one. Are we prepared to meet the issue? “And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:40.] “I am the Resurrection and the Life: he that believeth on Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.” [John 11:25, 26.] “I go to prepare a place for you” (who believe in Me, and are imitators of Me). “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am there ye may be also.” [John 14:2, 3.]
“Verily, verily I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live. … The hour is coming, in the which all that are in their graves shall hear His voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” [John 5:25, 28, 29.]
I have a deep interest in Brother Palmer, and remember you both in my prayers. I hope and pray that there may be a decided change in the atmosphere of the office.
There is a work for us to do, a preparation for us to make. We must imitate Christ’s character. May the Lord put His Holy Spirit upon us, that we may do thorough work in fitting our characters for eternal life. God help you, my children, to be ready for the Lord’s coming.
Edson and Emma, let us move carefully. We need not be discouraged. Watch and pray. Only believe, and you will see the salvation of God. Let everything be done in the spirit of meekness. Let us be sure that we possess the gentleness of Jesus. I have many burdens to bear, and you must help me.
In love. Peace be unto you.
Lt 85, 1903
Santee, Clarence
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 15, 1903
Elder Clarence Santee
Fernando, California
Dear Brother,—
I received your letter this afternoon and have time to write you only a few words before the Sabbath.
For years the Lord has been presenting to me the importance of holding our camp-meetings where we can reach the multitudes. Our time to work is very short, and we must carry our message to the people. I think there may be places where your camp-meeting could be located that would accomplish more in warning the people of coming events than in Fernando.
We are glad to hear your encouraging words about the school. I have felt from the first that it was the Lord’s providence which gave you that location; and that if the school were wisely managed, it would prove a great blessing to the people of Southern California. I have felt that you ought to do thorough work with whatever you undertake; and that if you are faithful in teaching the common branches, many of your students could go directly into the work as canvassers, colporteurs, and evangelists. We need not feel that all workers must have an advanced education. I have been sorry that you called your school a college and that you have promised to teach so many advanced studies. I have never supposed that it was the work of the Fernando school to try to do the same work that is done at Healdsburg, Walla Walla, and South Lancaster schools. You will certainly make a serious mistake if you undertake, with a few students and a few teachers, to do the advanced work which is carried forward with so much difficulty and expense in our larger schools. It will be better for your students and for the school for those who require the advanced studies to go to Healdsburg, and thus leave your faculty free to devote their best energies to doing thorough work in teaching the common branches.
Please do not make use of the document signed by yourself, Brother Giddings, and Brother Ballenger. I will make a more complete statement of my views regarding the work to be done at the Fernando school.
In arranging your faculty for the coming year, I advise you to secure a strong man to stand as principal of your school, a man whose physical strength will support him in doing thorough work as a teacher, thorough work as a disciplinarian; a man who is qualified to train the students in habits of order, neatness, and industry.
This is all I can write tonight. I shall hope to send you a longer letter in time for your consideration before you settle your plans for the coming year.
Lt 86, 1903
Exec. Committee of Southern Calif. Conf.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 17, 1903
To the Executive Committee of the Southern California Conference
Dear brethren,—
From Elder Santee’s letter, I learn that it has been proposed to hold your next camp-meeting at Fernando. No doubt this would be a convenience to those living near the school and to those families who wish to place their children in the school. But our camp-meetings ought not to be planned with a view to meeting the convenience of a few families, but with a view to warning the world and converting souls to the truth.
The church of Christ was organized for missionary purposes. Our camp-meetings are among the most important agencies in our work for fulfilling these purposes. Through them we may reach many with the gospel message. The Lord has instructed us that they are most effective agencies for doing this work.
From (Testimonies for the Church 6:33), I quote the following:
“In the sermon on the mount, Christ said to His disciples, ‘Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ [Matthew 5:14-16.] If our camp-meetings are conducted as they should be, they will indeed be a light in the world. They should be held in the large cities and towns where the message of truth has not been proclaimed. And they should continue for two or three weeks. It may sometimes be advisable to hold a camp-meeting for several successive seasons in the same place; but as a rule the place of meeting should be changed from year to year.”
Brethren, I exhort you to read again what is written in this testimony regarding our camp-meeting work. Read it with a determination to understand the instruction given and to carry it into effect. I urge you to realize the importance of reading the directions that the Lord has given us, that we may carry forward His work on the lines that He has marked out. Let us hold our camp-meetings near some of the important cities, in a retired place, yet not so far away that the people will not attend. We are to hold these meetings where we can reach those who are perishing in sin.
Please read also the section in Testimony Vol. 6, entitled “Education.” This is the Lord’s message to parents, children, and teachers. Let our students obtain this book and read it with a determination to improve.
Lt 87, 1903
Students of the Fernando School
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 17, 1903
To the students of the Fernando school,—
I am very much pleased to know that during the first term of the school souls have been converted. I hope that you will always remember that it is for your eternal interest to make the most of your capabilities and opportunities. Remember that in your school life here below you can, if you choose, fit yourselves for entrance into the school above.
Those who are indeed Christians will reveal in their lives a fragrance of character that will win others to Christ. While you are in school, help your teachers all you can. Do not grieve and perplex them. They are human, like yourselves, and they need the grace of Christ as verily as you need it. Make the way as pleasant as possible for them. Be pleasant and agreeable. Be careful in regard to your words and actions. Do not make it necessary for your teachers to correct you again and again in regard to your personal habits.
Correct all that is lax or careless in your speech or your habits. Do not pass this over as a matter of little consequence. Wherever you are, keep your room clean and tidy. Let no dirt or rubbish accumulate, “lest the Lord pass by and see your uncleanness.” [See Deuteronomy 23:14.] Christ is pure and holy and undefiled. Do not grieve the heavenly angels by cherishing untidy, shiftless habits. It rests with you yourselves to decide whether you will be accepted by the Lord as vessels unto honor, fit for His use.
The Lord desires to see in you a daily improvement. Your parents sent you to school with the hope that you would obtain an education that would make you more helpful in the home, more obedient, more kind, more thoughtful. The school term is about to close, and as you return to your homes, let your parents see that the school has accomplished much for you, making you a blessing in the home and in the Lord’s work.
Lt 88, 1903
Those in Charge of the Fernando School
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 17, 1903
To those in charge of the Fernando school
My dear brethren,—
I have received a letter from Brother Santee regarding the work of the Fernando school. He says, “God has blessed our Fernando school in many ways, and there is prospect of a much larger attendance in the next school year.” “We have labored for the students faithfully, and nearly all have given themselves to the Lord.”
For this encouraging report I am very thankful. It is for this that we have hoped and for this that we have prayed. Every student attending our schools should put on Christ, that by and by he may sit with the angels in heavenly places with Christ.
The light given me is that the educational branch of our work will be of great importance. What is it that will make our schools a power? It is not the size of the buildings. It is not the number of advanced studies taught. It is the faithful work done by teachers and students, as they begin at the lower rounds of the ladder of progress and climb diligently round by round.
Intermediate schools are highly essential. There are many parents who do not know how to train their children to be workers together with God. They have not in all things outgrown their childishness, and therefore they know not how to care properly for the church in their homes. Fathers and mothers have become indifferent to their obligations to God and unmindful of their duty to their children. Therefore we must establish schools that will be as the schools of the prophets.
Recently it has been clearly presented to me that by the continued sale of the book Christ’s Object Lessons, we may obtain means to help in establishing these schools and in freeing from indebtedness those already in operation.
The Word of God is to lie at the foundation of all the work done in these schools. And the students are to be taught the true dignity of labor. They are to be shown that God is a constant worker. Let every teacher take hold heartily with a group of students, working with them and teaching them how to work. As the teachers do this, they will gain a valuable experience. Their hearts will be bound up with the hearts of the students, and this will open the way for successful teaching.
Thorough work must be done in these schools; for many students will go from them directly into the great harvest field. They will go forth to use what they have learned, as canvassers and as helpers in various lines of evangelistic work. Many workers, after studying for a time in the field, will feel the need of further study and, with the experience gained in the field, will be prepared to value school privileges and to make rapid advancement. Some will desire an education in the higher branches of study. For these our colleges have been established.
It would be a sad mistake for us to fail to consider thoroughly the purpose for which each of our schools is established. This is a matter that should be faithfully considered by our responsible men in each Union Conference. All the different interests should be given careful consideration, and then each school should place its work on a proper basis.
I fear that my brethren have misunderstood my words regarding the Fernando school. I did not suppose that they would call it a college, or undertake to do college work. I was pleased with the number of students present at the opening, and with their appearance, and I wished to encourage them to reach the highest standard of excellence and usefulness. But I knew quite well that the school was not prepared to do the work done at Healdsburg College in advanced studies, or to give instruction that would entitle it to the appellation of “college.”
It is a mistake for our schools to get out flowery notices of what they intend to do. It would have been well if at the very start you had counseled more freely with your brethren of the Union Conference, who have had experience in educational work.
Some may think that at Fernando we should undertake to do the same work as at Healdsburg College. But we must remember that Healdsburg College was designed to do advanced work for our students in many Conferences, and that it took years for Healdsburg College to reach its present advancement. In order for it to do this, a solid foundation had to be laid. Never did I entertain the thought that the present faculty of the Fernando school could do the work done in Healdsburg.
Lt 89, 1903
Teachers of the Fernando School
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 17, 1903
To the teachers of the Fernando school,—
I have something to say in regard to the school at Fernando. Last night I was in earnest conversation with the school faculty. I was bearing them a decided message.
We are very grateful to God that there have been conversions in the school. But the school is not in all things reaching the high standard to which it may attain. A mistake was made in choosing the name adopted and in the announcement of studies that it was said would be taught. It is not wise for a new school to lift its banner and promise a high grade of work before it has proved that it is fully able to do preparatory work as it should be done. It should be the great aim in every intermediate school to do most thorough work in the common branches.
In every school that is established among us, the teachers should begin humbly, not grasping the higher rounds of the ladder before they have climbed the lower ones. They are to climb round after round, beginning at the bottom. They are to be learners, even as they teach the common branches. When they have come down to the simplicity of true education, they will better understand how to prepare students for advanced studies. Teachers are to learn as they teach. Advancement is to be made, and by advancement experience is to be gained.
Our teachers are not to think that their work ends with giving instruction from books. They should devote several hours each day to working with the students in some line of manual training. This should in no case be neglected.
In every school there should be those who have a store of patience and disciplinary talent. It should be the part of these to see that every line of work is kept up to the highest standard. Lessons in neatness, order, and thoroughness are to be given to the students. They are to be taught to keep everything in the school and about the grounds in perfect order.
A teacher should learn to control himself before he attempts to deal with the youth. If he is not a constant learner in the school of Christ; if he has not the discernment and discrimination that enable him to employ wise methods in his work; if he cannot control those in his charge with firmness, yet pleasantly and kindly, how can he be successful in his teaching? The teacher who is not under the control of God needs to heed the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
Every one acting in the capacity of a teacher should learn daily of Jesus, wearing His yoke of restraint, sitting in His school as a student, obeying the rules of Christian principle. The teacher who is not under the guidance of the great Teacher will not be able to meet successfully the different developments that will arise as the result of the perversity of the children and youth with whom he is dealing.
Let the teacher, bring love and peace and cheerfulness into his work. Let him not allow himself to become angry or provoked. The Lord is looking upon him with intense interest, to see if he is being educated by the great Teacher. The child who loses his self-control is far more excusable than the teacher who allows himself to become angry and impatient. When a teacher has a reproof to give, let him give it in a soft, gentle voice. Let him be careful not to make the child stubborn by speaking to him harshly. Let him follow every correction with drops of the oil of kindness. His heart should be softened by love and kindness. He should never forget that He is dealing with Christ in the person of one of Christ’s little children.
Let it be a settled maxim that in all school discipline, faithfulness and love are to reign. When a student is corrected in such a way that he cannot get the idea that the teacher desires to humiliate him, love for the teacher springs up in his heart.
Lt 90, 1903
Santee, Clarence
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 18, 1903
Elder Clarence Santee
Dear Brother,—
I am sending to you words of counsel regarding your camp-meeting and your school. I am deeply interested in the prosperity of your school and desire to see God’s richest blessings attend it.
There is a great work to be done in the field, and the school interests must not become all-absorbing. It will not be wise for you to devote your time largely to the school. The Conference requires the labors of its president.
I advise you to strengthen your faculty. The principal is not able, physically, to do the work that needs to be done. He should be in a place where he will not have much brain work; for he can not endure the strain, neither can he do justice to the work.
Brother Giddings is not a man of strong mental or physical talents. He lacks some of the qualifications essential to success in dealing with minds. Let those teachers who have not self-control study diligently the lessons that Christ has given. When they have learned these lessons, they will be better qualified to teach the youth.
Lt 91, 1903
Faith, Elizabeth
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 18, 1903
Mrs. Elizabeth Faith
My dear sister,—
I am pleased to see that you have been enabled, in the light of the law of God, to see sin as it is. When we talked together in Battle Creek, you had not moral perception to enable you to distinguish right from wrong. You were transgressing the law of God, but you did not appear to understand what you were doing. If you have been enlightened, if you can understand what it means to keep the law of God, if you have a correct idea of what sin is, how thankful you should be. If you know right from wrong, if you can distinguish between the service of sin and the service of God, if you have a clear sense of God’s requirements, then you may safely engage in His work as providence opens the way.
“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] If a canvasser should be tempted by human agencies to do wrong, and should yield, and at the same time should think that he was doing right, should he continue to be trusted with a sacred, holy work? Will you think of this? You were dealt with as you should have been. A person doing as you did should no longer be left to handle sacred things.
If the Lord has given you a true conversion, and you can distinguish between sin and righteousness, God will instruct you. If you put your entire trust in Him, He will accept your service. The Lord forgave David, but He punished his transgression. David sincerely repented, but he lost his child.
I am thankful that you regard the past as you do, and I would encourage you to do all the good you can in humble, trusting faith. If you go forward in meekness and do your best, you will be kept by the power of God.
I greatly desire the salvation of every soul. Each soul is precious in the sight of the Lord. He will give His grace to all who in sincere love for Him seek to do His will. He will pardon their transgressions.
Praying that you may be an overcomer, I am, Your sister.
Lt 92, 1903
Palmer, E. R.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 21, 1903
Dear Brother Palmer,—
In the past I have felt perplexed about saying to you all that I desired to say; for I feared that you would not understand me. I now wish to say that had not the Review and Herald been destroyed, the plans that you and Elder Daniells were forming would have made it necessary for me to say many things to counteract what you were working to accomplish. In your feelings of opposition to the proper development of the smaller printing offices, and your desire to bring much of our publishing work to Battle Creek, you were on the wrong track. But the Lord has taken this matter in hand, in a way that must be recognized, and it is not necessary for me to carry this burden on my heart.
There are some things that I must present to you. It is not best for you to take up work in Battle Creek. Had you decided to accept the invitations for you to do this, I should have felt it my duty to present to you as clearly as possible what the result would be. I will now say that your wisest course will be not to attach yourself to any large center. In such a place there are always many perplexities, and there are always influences that work counter to the right. You are not prepared, mentally or physically, to meet these things.
My counsel to you is to take up the work in some new place. Try to build up a work that has not been shaped. In doing this your strength will be employed to far better advantage than in a place like Battle Creek, where the influences are so varied and so unsanctified, and where the elements of contention are so strong. Away from the confusion of Battle Creek, you would be of far more value to the line of work that you are best fitted for.
Brother Palmer, the Lord has given you a special and important gift in your experience as a canvasser and your ability to teach others how to engage successfully in this work. You are not to become discouraged when you find that many do not see in all points as you do and that there is a diversity of plans. The Lord has not given you the responsibility of governing the work, but He has given you wisdom as a teacher, and He will help you to help others to learn how to carry the canvassing work forward to success.
The Lord will give you strength to bear every burden that He has laid upon you. He will help you to make a success of the canvassing work. That which the Lord has fitted you to do in the education of canvassers is a much-needed work.
It is not for me to lay out for you a definite line of work. But you should work, if possible, in some place where your mind will be kept in even balance, where you can be peaceful and quiet, where you will not be consulted on many questions. It is not best for you to have supervision over many things. Your mind should not be overtaxed. This would be a great injury to you. When too many perplexities are placed upon you, the blood rushes to your head, and you give way to an intensity of feeling that endangers your health.
Place yourself, if possible, where you will have little cause to worry over the work of others. As a teacher of canvassers you have talents that will make you very useful in the cause of God. But you are not to stand as a dictator.
If you should take upon you perplexities in which large interests are involved, the confusion that would come as the result of planning for the management of many things would not be for your own good or for the best interests of the cause of God. Those who would place upon you a variety of duties requiring the most careful management are making a mistake. Your mind needs to be tranquilized. You are to do a work that will not produce friction in your mind. You are to keep your conscience in the fear of God, according to the Bible standard, and you are to make steady improvement, that you may not be in any way unfitted for the work God has given you to do.
You are not to place yourself where a multiplicity of cares will crowd upon you. And above all, you are not to forget that you have a church in your own home to care for. This point must be considered. You have children to guide and direct. In studying the differences in their dispositions and tendencies, you will gain a valuable experience. Do not try to embrace too much in your labors. If you do this, you will not have opportunity to study the characters of your children.
I should not advise you to connect with any of our large institutions, to be exposed to the many temptations that will come. We all accept too much responsibility in connection with our work when we need instead more restraint and a deeper sense of what God is to us and what we may be to Him. How many there are who live under such a pressure of worry that they taste but little of the sweetness of God’s love. They do not know the meaning of the words, “That My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” [See John 15:11.]
Your dependence must be in God. You are not to let other men empty their minds into your mind. You are not to allow them by their persuasions to lead you into false paths. Put your trust wholly in Him who declares, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.” [Hebrews 13:5.]
God has made a covenant of grace with you. Christ is your hope, your refuge. It will be well for you to consider carefully your accountability to Him, your need of walking in the ways of the Lord, so that you may be enabled to carry the responsibilities placed on you in consecrated, prayerful dependence on Him, with an eye single to His glory. God will help you to labor in a way that will bring encouragement and upbuilding to those who are striving to follow the Lord in self-denial and who cherish pure, unadulterated principles.
Our salvation is not in our own keeping. It has been placed in the hands of our Mediator. We are safe only while we keep a firm hold on the unerring Guide. Our success is sure if we do not weave our natural inclinations into the doing of God’s work. When we bring self into our efforts, our feelings are stirred upon the least provocation, and we speak and act with an authority that God does not design His children to exercise toward one another.
All who have a part in God’s work are to remember that He is the Ruler, and that those who have been appointed to take charge of His work must be under His rulership, body, soul, and spirit. And they are to remember that it is not enough that they do no wrong. They are not to suffer wrong to be done. They themselves must cherish a fear to offend God that will effectually restrain them from doing evil.
He who is engaged in God’s service must look constantly to Jesus, filled with the determination to follow Him who gave His life for the life of the world. Our abrupt words and actions show a zeal that is not according to knowledge. We need always to be on watch, lest the policy of the world creep in and one-sided plans unbalance the mind. Many are in positive danger of being led astray because they do not realize that they are in positive danger. They breathe the tainted atmosphere of the enemy, and as a thief in the night deception creeps upon them. The clear spiritual vision is dimmed. A line of action formed on false conceptions is followed, and the Holy Spirit is grieved.
With this I shall send to you something which I wrote several months ago about your work and that of Elder Daniells. You may have seen it. Please read it again. In it you will find encouragement and instruction.
Lt 93, 1903
Arthur, Sister
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 21, 1903
Dear Sister Arthur,—
I would be very glad if I could talk with you this evening, but as that is impossible, I will write. I hardly know where to address you, as by this time you may have left Boulder.
I am greatly comforted as I contemplate the strong pillars of our faith. Those who possess true godliness will reveal it in their daily lives. In business transactions, the Christian will honor his Master. In his social relations, he will manifest love, mercy, compassion, and strict integrity. In our lives we must ever reveal clearly the high and holy principles of heaven. To His followers, living amidst the wickedness of this world, Christ says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] True Christians will let their light shine and will be loyal to Christ. Christ demands constant loyalty. Let nothing interpose between your soul and Jesus Christ. Cast your helpless soul upon Him, and then the enemy cannot separate you from the love of Christ.
My dear sister, I hope that you are taking care of yourself and that your health is improving. Remember that the Lord Jesus is the Chief Physician. He knows every anxiety of your mind. He is acquainted with your every difficulty. He would have you lay aside your trouble and anxiety and put your trust in Him. “Be not faithless, but believing.” [John 20:27.]
My dear sister, we have a most precious Saviour. You love Jesus; therefore your life is hid with Christ in God. Love for Him will enable us to withstand the severe trials and temptations that come to us day by day. His love for fallen humanity has been plainly demonstrated. His love for us is of the highest, most exalted character. It never fails. Privation could not starve that love. The whole weight of the sins of the world could not break the cord of love with which He encircles humanity. It was the thought that so many would fail to respond to His great love that caused Christ’s heart to break. The great question for us to answer is, Do I love Jesus with the whole heart? If we do, His love will be more precious to us than language can express.
Be not surprised if temptations come to you. But remember that Christ’s yoke is easy. He has bound Himself up with humanity, that humanity may be bound to Him.
Be hopeful. Knowing that Jesus loves you, you can be cheerful. Keep your soul in the love of God. Sometimes we may gain strength by being kept in quietness. Action is good sometimes; but often we may receive great blessing in calm, sweet meditation and in quiet study, waiting upon God for the refreshing of His Holy Spirit. “For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.” [Isaiah 30:15.]
When we are in affliction, we need the grace of Christ to sustain us. You may have a calm and sweet trust in God. The Word of God is the bread of life. You may feed upon its rich promises. I have prayed for you especially this morning, that your soul may have a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit; that you may sit together with Christ in heavenly places, casting all your care upon Him who careth for you; that Satan with his temptations may not separate you from the love of Christ Jesus your Lord.
You are one of God’s older children. Your children are His little children. Your husband is the priest of the household. You may lean your soul upon his deep affection. If you are separated, you can write to each other. When you write to him, say that I am praying for you both. I have received for him the comforting assurance that the Lord will be His Helper and will keep him by His power. “Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.” “For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.” [Psalm 84:5, 11, 12.] Christ’s righteousness will go before him, and he will be guided from above.
“Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: He preserveth the souls of His saints; He delivereth them out of the hands of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.” “Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.” [Psalm 97:10-12; 100:2-5.]
I wish Colorado were not so far away. I have many dear friends in Boulder. How I would like to see them and speak to them frequently of the Saviour’s love!
But my work is here. I must prepare books and give the light that the Lord gives me. I do not want to leave an unfinished work. I have with me an excellent company of workers, who take a decided interest in the work, and who can value aright the light given.
My sister, trust in the Lord and be of good courage. Commit the keeping of your soul to Him. He cares for you as one of His little children. Be cheerful. Whatever your condition, look in faith to the great, all-wise Physician. You are to remember that Christ owns you, and that He blesses and strengthens you. I pray that He will help you, that you may have health to care for your children, if that will be for your present and eternal good. Take hold of His strength, and exercise faith, living faith in Jesus. May the Lord bless you and every member of your family.
Lt 94, 1903
Hall, L. M.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 21, 1903
Dear Sister Hall,—
Sara has just read me your letter to her and to us all. I am very thankful to my heavenly Father that my health continues to improve. I have much writing to do, and I am glad that I can put the instruction given me into the form of books and send these books on their mission to enlighten the world.
The Lord is soon to come, and I must be prepared to meet Him in peace. I am sure that the world is ripening for the last great conflict. I am determined to do all in my power to impart light to those around me. I am not to be sad, but cheerful, and I am to keep the Lord Jesus ever before me. He is coming soon, and we must be ready and waiting for His appearing. O how glorious it will be to see Him and be saved through His merits. Long we have waited, but our faith is not to become weak. It is to grow stronger as we see the signs of the times fulfilling. The end is near, and we are to put all our energies into the work of preparing to move from this lower school to the school above.
I am presenting my case before the Lord for His special blessing. We must have His presence with us constantly. We need it here, in our home, in our office, and in the heart of every worker. I must be cheerful, and although I feel sorrow of heart as I think of how little earnest work is done for the saving of souls, and how much we all need the converting power of God, I dare not put on a doleful, complaining aspect. We must face the Sun of righteousness. We must do our very best. We must pray and then believe that our prayers will be answered. Let us not cherish a complaining spirit. We love Jesus, and we know that He loves us—poor, failing, sinful human beings. Let us praise Him for His goodness and His mercy. We are His property, and it is our privilege to rejoice in His love.
Marian has been very sick, something as you were when you were with us. One evening while she was at Conference, she went to the Observatory with a party of friends. The evening was very cold, and she became thoroughly chilled. The next day she was quite sick. We sent her at once to the Sanitarium, and she has been there ever since. She has had a severe illness. For a time she was in a very critical condition. It was doubtful whether she would live. She coughed almost constantly and could not eat. For a while she had a day and night nurse. She is better now. Her cough has almost gone. When the weather is favorable, she walks out in the garden and greatly enjoys picking the roses.
But she does not dare to return home yet; for she finds that she cannot do without radiant heat. This always relieves her cough.
I can assure you that we miss her very much. We need her to complete the preparation of the book on temperance. But I fear that she will not be able to work for sometime.
I am doing what I can to answer the letters that come to me and to send needed instruction to the workers in Australia, Africa, and other parts of the world. The other day I received letters from two sisters in despondency, and these I answered at once. I always give such letters immediate attention, trying to write that which will inspire faith and hope and courage.
We are doing what we can to reach those in darkness. Every other Sabbath a song service is held in the Soldier’s Home, at Yountville, a town about nine miles from here. In this Home there are hundreds of aged soldiers who are supported by the State. Our people have held meetings there for some time. The company who go drive over. Most of the time is spent in singing, and often a thirty-minute talk is given on some Bible subject. Papers and books are taken to give to those who wish them.
The soldiers greatly enjoy these meetings, and several are becoming interested. All who attend earnestly request that the meetings shall be continued. Some have seen my name in the papers and books given them, and they are calling for me to come and speak to them. I should go next Sabbath, but I cannot; for I have promised to speak at the Sanitarium at eleven o’clock.
I have not dared to tax my strength in speaking; for I carry a heavy burden all the time for other lines of work. My writing must be attended to. My books must be prepared for publication.
There are many opportunities for missionary work among the people round us. Six miles from the Sanitarium there is a wood-choppers’ camp where many men are working. We shall go there sometime and speak to the men. We intend to carry the truth into the highways and byways. The seeds of truth are to be sown beside all waters.
Brother Taylor has just called to invite me to speak at the Sanitarium tomorrow. He says that at present the highest-priced rooms in the institution are filled with a most excellent class of patients.
We think that we now have at the Sanitarium the help that we need in physicians. Brother and Sister Evans take very well with the patients. They take a deep interest in the patients; they sympathize with them; and the patients love them.
We have some backsets that we cannot help. Several weeks ago a sister came to the Sanitarium from San Francisco, sick. Her sickness was found to be what is called manilla itch, a mild form of smallpox. This is the disease that Ella and Mabel had while we were in the East last year. The sister was quarantined in a tent at some distance from the Sanitarium, and a nurse was sent to take care of her. But it was not long before the nurse caught the disease, and then, knowing that Mabel had had the disease, the doctors asked her if she would look after these two patients. She said that she would, and she has now been with them three weeks. The tent in which they live is not far from Elder Taylor’s house, so they are not alone.
This case had to be reported, and it caused several patients to leave the Sanitarium.
Mr. Blackman, one of our neighbors, has been ailing for some time with stomach trouble. He is not a Sabbath-keeper, you know, and he thought much of Dr. Burke. About a week ago, he was taken very sick, and he went to Dr. Burke’s Sanitarium. But he lived only for a few days after going there and died with no Christian hope. This made me feel very sad. He little thought when he left his home that he would never see it again. The warning comes to us to be ready should death call us unexpectedly. This poor man was not ready. Old age and infirmities have come upon me, and I want to live near to my Saviour. I want to cling close to His side. I want to do the will of my heavenly Father. I want to remember constantly that our life is pure only when we are under the control of God and happy only when we hold communion with Him.
All the luster possessed by those who have gained the richest experience is but the reflection of the light of the Sun of righteousness. He who lives nearest to Jesus shines the brightest. And let us thank God that the Master has His hidden ones, who are not recognized by the world, but whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. The luster of the tiniest gem in God’s casket will glorify Him. There are many, like your sister Eleanor, who during this life do not seem to be particularly honored. But the Lord sees those who serve Him. “They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” [Malachi 3:17.]
“Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” [Verse 18.] “For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. But unto you that fear My name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in His wings; and ye shall go forth and grow up as calves of the stall.” [Malachi 4:1, 2.]
I am so glad that we have a God who understands—a God who will reward every man according as his works shall be.
I have just come up from evening worship. Our lesson chapter was the eighty-fourth Psalm, which contains these words: “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.” [Verses 1, 2.] I long to see Christians who are harmonious in all their parts. It is so sad to see those whose lives are a jumble of opposites. Christians must be Christlike. The life of a true, loveable Christian is the most powerful argument that can be produced in favor of the gospel.
Sister Hall, let us not worry. I was pleased with your cheerfulness when you were with us. I feel the greatest pleasure in the thought that we shall be together again soon, and that the old times will be renewed. We shall enjoy each other’s society. We have both lived a very active, earnest life. If we can now ripen for the higher life, it will mean everything to us. You have not lived to please or exalt yourself, and I hope that you will now feel that you have done enough struggling to help others, and that you can enjoy peace and quietude and the sweet satisfaction of knowing that you have done what you could, and that the Lord will reward you according to your works.
Be of good courage, Sister Hall. Our warfare is almost over. We can both rest in the assurance that “we are His workmanship.” [Ephesians 2:10.] Do not for a minute suppose that the Lord will forget your unselfish labors. During our lives the conflict has been sharp and severe. We can recall how again and again we have been pressed down to the grinding wheel. But let us never forget that if we can but see the King in His beauty, we shall be forever and forever blessed. I feel as if I must cry out aloud, “Homeward bound.” We are nearing the time when Christ shall come in power and great glory. Be of good courage in the Lord.
Lt 95, 1903
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
May 19, 1903
Dear Brother Daniells,—
We have received your letter in regard to the selection of a place for the Review and Herald Publishing House.
I have no special light, except what you have already received, in reference to New York and the other large cities that have not been worked. Decided efforts should be made in Washington, D.C. It is a sad thing that the record stands as it does, showing so little accomplished there. It will be best to consider what can be done for this city and see what ways of working will be the best.
In the past, decided testimony has been borne in regard to the need of making decided efforts to bring the truth before the people of Washington. I shall find what I have written on this point, if I can, and send it to you.
May the Lord help us to move understandingly and prayerfully. I am sure that He is willing that we should know, and that right early, where we should locate our publishing house. I am satisfied that our only safe course is to be ready to move just when the cloud moves. Let us pray that He will direct us. He has signified, by His providence, that He would have us leave Battle Creek. In the large Tabernacle there, many meetings, many ministerial institutes have been held. Light and power have been centered there when they should have been scattered far and near in the many cities yet unworked. Small centers should have been made in many places to represent the truth. Thus much good would have been accomplished. New members would have been added to the ranks of believers. With an increase of numbers would have come an increase of tithe, providing means to carry the message to other places.
New York needs to be worked, but whether our publishing house should be established there, I cannot say. I should not regard the light I have received as definite enough to favor the movement.
Let us all lift our hearts to God in prayer, having faith that He will guide us. What more can we do? Let Him indicate the place where the publishing house should be established. We are to have no will of our own, but are to seek the Lord and follow where He leads the way.
Lt 96, 1903
Hall, L. M.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 22, 1903
Dear Sister Hall,—
Will you please take the responsibility of making inquiry in regard to books of mine that are needed in the Sanitarium library. I understand that many of the books were consumed at the time of the fire. Please find out what is needed in the patients’ library, and purchase the necessary volumes, at my expense, as I desire to make a gift of them to the Sanitarium. I would wish these books for the patients’ library to be in the best binding. Also find out whether there is a set of my books in the helpers’ library. If not, please buy a set for it, too. The binding of this set need not be the most expensive. Use your judgment in regard to this matter.
I should also like you to find out whether the Old People’s Home and the Orphans’ Home are supplied with sets of my books. If not, please buy for them what may be needed, including both the large and the small books. I desire to make these gifts to these needy places. I have the tenderest feelings toward all these institutions. Please use your judgment in supplying the necessities of these institutions, sending to each place the books required, at my expense.
There is another errand that I will commit to you. I used to have some books that I cannot now find. Among them were four or five leather-bound volumes of Barnes’s Notes on the Bible, which I purchased from Brother Saxby when I was in Washington, D.C. I think my name is in them. I want them, if they can be found. Please ask Brother Amadon about them. If they cannot be found in the West Building of the Review office, please ask that public inquiry be made in regard to them. If these books are about the office, this fact will be known; for the volumes are almost square, leather-bound, second-hand; and if inquiry is made in a public meeting, some one may be found who knows something in regard to them.
Another volume that I cannot find is Mr. Horace Mann’s book on temperance. If any one has this book, or any other books belonging to me, I should be glad to have them returned to me. My name is in most of my books.
The Review and Herald office had some old cuts, or engravings, of a large photograph of my husband Elder James White and of myself. I want these and also the copies of the pictures printed from these engraved plates. I understand that a large package of the pictures is stored in the General Conference office, together with old pamphlets.
At one time I had some remnants of books and some complete volumes of Sabbath Readings stored somewhere in Battle Creek. Please ask Brother Amadon to make diligent search for all these things and to send to me, by freight, packed securely in a box, all my belongings that I have referred to. We can use the small volumes of Sabbath Readings and other works to good advantage in orphans’ homes and in many other places where these little books will be highly valued. We could use some of them in the Soldiers’ Home at Yountville, where many hundreds of old soldiers are provided for in large government buildings. We are giving these men every attention possible. Every other Sabbath a party from the Sanitarium and the St. Helena churches visits them to sing religious hymns and to speak to them. They are interested in these meetings and seem delighted with everything that our people do for them.
We are sending papers to these soldiers and have placed in their library copies of my works—Christ’s Object Lessons and some larger books of mine. Many of these men are intelligent. Our brethren and sisters are working this field, and we hope to do much more for the soldiers than we have yet done. Sometimes a talk—a short, pointed, Bible sermon—is given them, and they listen with intense interest. The gospel songs, the short prayer, and the good talk, taken together, seem to be just what is needed to interest the old men. They say, “We never have had any such work as this done for us before!”
We desire to keep books and papers circulating among these soldiers. Please help us all you can along this line by gathering together something for them to read—books and papers full of Bible truth.
I must stop writing, else I shall not get this into the mail.
In much love.
Lt 97, 1903
Kellogg, J. H.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 22, 1903
Previously unpublished.
Dr. J. H. Kellogg
My dear Brother,—
With this I am sending you two articles on the food work. Please read them, and weigh carefully every point. I thought they had been sent to you.
I will soon send you another letter; for I have the deepest interest in you. I want you to be an overcomer. I pray that we may meet you in the family of the redeemed, rejoicing that we have gained entrance into the city of God.
Lt 98, 1903
Morton, Eliza
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 25, 1903
Dear Sister Morton,—
I have read the letter that you wrote to Sister McEnterfer in regard to your mother’s death; and I could but say, “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.” [Revelation 14:13.] For a long time your mother had been very feeble. You have cared constantly for her. To see her face no more will be a great grief to you. Were we living nearer you, we would say, “Come apart, and rest awhile.” [Mark 6:31.] But your duties claim your time. I would say to you, Trust in the Lord. You will feel the death of your mother very keenly; but let me tell you that I sorrow not for the righteous dead, but for the living. I know that you have laid your mother in the tomb in the full hope that she will come forth when the trump of God shall sound.
What do you think of doing? I have a deep interest in you. Please write and tell me about your plans for the future. Remember that you are to leave the present and the future in the hands of your heavenly Father, who so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. I know what it means to bury loved ones. My father, mother, brothers and sisters, my husband, and two of my sons are sleeping in their graves. My sister Mary and I and my two sons are all that are left.
If Adam and Eve had not sinned, we should never have known anything about death. But they yielded to the temptations of the enemy, and we became subject to death. Christ came to free us from the power of death. He passed through death, that He might destroy him that had the power of death. When He came forth from the tomb, He proclaimed over the rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life. I was dead, but I live again, and all who go down to the grave believing in Me will I bring again to the land of the living.”
Christ came to this world to be tempted in all points like as human beings are tempted, that He might be able to succor those that are tempted. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] He came to honor humanity by standing at the head of humanity. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. O how blind and foolish are those who refuse to avail themselves of the great advantages secured to them by the death of the Son of God. His heart is filled with grief as He looks upon those who might be saved, but who will not give up their sins.
Lt 99, 1903
Nichols, Henry
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 24, 1903
Dear brother Henry Nichols,—
We were pleasantly surprised to hear that you and your family are so much nearer to us than when you lived on the Nichols estate. I wanted to talk with the friends who came from the place where you are now living. I asked that arrangements be made for them to visit me. But for some reason this was not brought about.
I want you to write to me and tell me about yourself. I understand that you are again keeping the Sabbath. I have not lost my interest in you, but I thought that you had lost all interest in those who once knew you so well. I have not ceased to pray for you. Will you not write to me at once, and tell me all about yourself and your family? I should be so pleased to meet you again. I have thought much of our first acquaintance, when your father acted a father’s part to me. What happy times we had together in the Nichols mansion.
How many times I have wanted the little leaflet of hymns from which we used to sing. If you have it, keep it carefully, and sometime we will republish it.
I will send you copies of letters that I have written to others. The sketch of our doings may not be uninteresting to you.
My life has been a very busy one. It has been a life of continuous labor. I have been enabled to do something for the Master.
We find many opportunities for missionary work among the people around us. For some time some of the members of the church here have been going to the Veterans’ Home at Yountville, about nine miles from St. Helena, every other Sabbath and holding a song service for those of the soldiers who care to listen. Sometimes a short talk is given on some Bible subject. I have not been to the Home yet, but I expect to go soon.
These meetings open a wonderful field for missionary effort. The soldiers are given our books and papers to read, and some are becoming interested.
There, workers met in the Home Stephen Tracy, who once lived in Brunswick, Maine. He had met with an accident and had broken his leg, which had to be amputated. He made himself known to the members of my family who were at the meeting. I shall ask him to pay us a visit.
Elder G. A. Irwin, who two years ago was the president of our General Conference, and who has since been sent to Australia, returned to America a few months ago to attend a recent session of the General Conference. He came to see us and while here attended the meeting at the Veterans’ Home. He served in the war himself and at Yountville met a soldier with whom he had many times stood side by side in battle.
Those in charge of the institution say that the soldiers take more interest in the song service than in any other of the religious meetings held for them. They are highly pleased with the efforts made by our people and say that they would like meeting every Sabbath. These men are to be labored for. I know that the Lord has not forgotten them. They have souls to save, and we must improve every opportunity to work for them.
In closing, I would say that I am so glad that the Lord has brought you near to Himself again. I am so glad that you are once more able to sing,
“Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou biddest me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.”
We do not want to lose one who had a part in the work done just after the passing of the time in 1844. We need their experience.
Lt 100, 1903
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
May 25, 1903
Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
The Australian mail has just come, and I have read your letter. Thank you very much for writing. I have much writing on hand, but I will begin a short letter to you and to your associates in the Sanitarium.
Make haste slowly as far as electric lights are concerned. I think that while your patronage is so light and while there is so great a dearth of means, it would be a mistake to incur large expense for the introduction of the electric lights and the electric light bath into the Sanitarium. Far better will it be for you to labor untiringly to develop to their fullest usefulness the facilities within your reach, especially all the natural facilities of the place, and wait awhile before investing in so expensive a facility as electric lights.
Be sure that the orchard has some means expended on it. It will respond to treatment. Give it the care that will enable it to do its best. I look upon that orchard as of great value to the institution.
Do all that you possibly can to perfect the institution inside and out. Be sure that your premises are in the best of order. Let there be nothing about them that will make a disagreeable impression on the minds of the patients.
Encourage the patients to live healthfully and to take an abundance of exercise. This will do much to restore them to health. Let seats be placed under the shade of the trees, that the patients may be encouraged to spend much time out-of-doors. And a place should be provided, enclosed either with canvas or with glass, where, in cooler weather, the patients can sit in the sun without feeling the wind.
Obtain the best help in the cooking that you can. If food is prepared in such a way that it is a tax on the digestive organs, be sure that investigation is needed. Food can be prepared in such a way as to be both wholesome and palatable.
Fresh air and sunshine, cheerfulness within and without the institution, pleasant words and kindly acts—these are the remedies that the sick need, and God will crown with success your efforts to provide these remedies for the sick ones who come to the Sanitarium. By happiness and cheerfulness and expressions of sympathy and hopefulness for others, your own soul will be filled with light and peace. And never forget that the sunshine of God’s blessing is worth everything to us.
Teach nurses and patients the value of those health-restoring agencies that are freely provided by God and the usefulness of simple things that are easily obtained.
I will tell you a little about my experience with charcoal as a remedy. For some forms of indigestion, it is more efficacious than drugs. A little olive oil into which some of this powder has been stirred tends to cleanse and heal. I find it is excellent.
Pulverized charcoal from eucalyptus wood we have used freely in cases of inflammation. During the first camp-meeting that we held in Australia, a young woman was taken very sick with inflammation of the liver and the lungs. It was feared that she would die. Dr. M. G. Kellogg, who was attending her, came to me for advice. I suggested that he make a compress of pulverized charcoal, and put it on the sick woman’s side. She had been crying out in her pain, but in about fifteen minutes after the compress was applied, she fell into a sweet sleep.
When we first went to Cooranbong, the men who were clearing in the woods would often come in with bruised hands. In these and other cases of inflammation, I advised the trial of a compress of pulverized charcoal. Sometimes the inflammation, which was very high before the compress was applied, would be gone by the next day.
Always study and teach the use of the simplest remedies, and the special blessing of the Lord may be expected to follow the use of these means which are within the reach of the common people.
If you can get Brother and Sister Starr to unite with you in sanitarium work, do so by all means. Let no spiritual advantages be looked upon as expensive. Let the truth be presented in its simplicity and power. If Brother Starr can take up this work, it will be a help to physicians and managers and a blessing to helpers and patients.
To all the workers in the Sanitarium I would say, Be sure to help the souls that are ready to perish. Oh, it does me good to hear that sinners are being made to understand how they can be saved. Do not forget that a worker must not take upon himself so many burdens that his soul will become weary. His first and greatest care should be to keep fresh and fragrant in spirit. In the unfolding of God’s plan we are to be restored to a state corresponding to the perfection of divinity. This is accomplished through the death of Christ and through His mediatorial work in our behalf. As we move forward in the fulfilment of God’s plan, our character is established in holiness, and we gain more and more knowledge of God and of Christ. We are ever to remember that we are chosen of God and precious, and that the saving of souls is to be our one great aim in all that we do.