“I'd Like To Ask Sister White ...”

Tell Me Another Ocean Story.

I left San Francisco [California] on the afternoon of June 10, 1878, upon the steamer Oregon. Captain Conner, who had charge of this splendid steamer, was very attentive to his passengers. As we passed through the Golden Gate into the broad ocean it was very rough. The wind was against us, and the steamer pitched fearfully, while the ocean was lashed into fury by the wind. I watched the clouded sky, the rushing waves leaping mountain high, and the spray reflecting the colors of the rainbow. The sight was fearfully grand. LASW 109.1

As I looked upon the white-capped, roaring billows, I was reminded of that scene in the life of Christ, when the disciples went in their boats to the farther side of the sea. LASW 109.2

When nearly all had left for their staterooms, I continued on deck. The captain had provided me a deck chair, and blankets. I knew that if I went into the cabin I should be sick. Night came on, darkness covered the sea, and the plunging waves were pitching our ship fearfully. This great vessel was as a mere chip upon the waters; but she was protected by the heavenly angels. Had it not been for this, we might have been swallowed up in a moment. But that God who feeds the ravens, who numbers the hairs of our heads, will not forget us. LASW 109.3

The last night we were on the boat I felt most grateful to my heavenly Father. I there learned a lesson I shall never forget. God had spoken to my heart in the storm, and in the waves, and in the calm following. And shall we not worship Him? ⁹ LASW 109.4