Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

53/326

Preparing People to Meet Jesus

This was the driving element in Ellen's writing so many messages of encouragement, counsel, and caution, as the Lord through the visions opened up to her the cases of individuals needing counsel. Note her burden and concern in a twelve-page message directed to a wife and mother in Michigan as she wrote of serious shortcomings in the woman's experience: 2BIO 95.3

Unless this is overcome now, it never will be, and Sister---will have no part with God's people, no home in His heavenly kingdom. God cannot take you to heaven as you are. You would mar that peaceful, happy place. 2BIO 95.4

What can be done for you? Do you design to wait until Jesus comes in the clouds of heaven? Will He make you all over new when He comes? Oh, no. This will not be done then. The fitting up must be done here; all the hewing and squaring must take place here upon earth, in the hours of probation. You must be fitted up here; the last blow must be given here. 2BIO 95.5

When Jesus takes His place on the great white cloud, he that is holy will be holy still, and he that is filthy will be filthy still. His reward is with Him to give to every one according as his works shall be. Now is your time to get ready.—Letter 3, 1863. 2BIO 95.6