Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 18, 1893

Farewell Camp Address. 6:00 a.m.

Napier, New Zealand

April 6, 1893

Previously unpublished.

Luke 2:40-51. This brings us to when Jesus was twelve years old. We have had much before our minds since the camp meeting began. And we know the enemy is alive, seeking to efface impressions that the Spirit of God has made. He has great power to work, and he tries to efface the image of God in man, that he may establish his own attributes. We have heard much truth. Christ said, “Walk in the light, while ye have the light.” [John 12:35.] After this there is danger of becoming neglectful of heeding. Truth comes from the Author of truth. It is to be written on the tablets of the heart so as not to be effaced. 8LtMs, Ms 18, 1893, par. 1

We may be sure where [the] Lord has been working on people to establish principles, the enemy will work to counteract this. We may feel we know more and are more safe. Our knowledge that we put into practice will be of use to us. If you diffuse the light you have, it will become [a] strong force wherewith you can withstand the enemy. We shall praise God for every ray permitted to shine on our pathway. The work of the enemy is to obliterate everything that comes from heaven, and our work is to resist him. We must fight the good fight of faith. 8LtMs, Ms 18, 1893, par. 2

The only way we can reach the people is through God. Let us work with the heavenly agency and make impressions that are heavenly and not earthly. I feel so thankful that the Lord Jesus Christ is at our side as long as we are on His side. Bring our ideas to the Scriptures and see what God says. We are not to interpret the Scriptures in the light of our ideas, and we shall not be left to delusions. [Manuscript ends here.] 8LtMs, Ms 18, 1893, par. 3