I love the blessed way; it buoys me up;My Saviour’s here, and with him I may sup.I’ll be content with nothing short of this;And this alone makes Heaven perpetual bliss.
I love the blessed way; it buoys me up;
My Saviour’s here, and with him I may sup.
I’ll be content with nothing short of this;
And this alone makes Heaven perpetual bliss.
Then let us make our hope and calling sure;And all our trials patiently endure.They’ll soon be o’er; our lives we’ll not hold dear,And soon in glory with our Lord appear.
Then let us make our hope and calling sure;
And all our trials patiently endure.
They’ll soon be o’er; our lives we’ll not hold dear,
And soon in glory with our Lord appear.
There is a people coming up, with gifts and power divine,Whose holy influence will be felt, whose holy light will shine;It will be known who do in truth, the solemn message heed,Such will be zealous and repent, becoming saints indeed.
There is a people coming up, with gifts and power divine,
Whose holy influence will be felt, whose holy light will shine;
It will be known who do in truth, the solemn message heed,
Such will be zealous and repent, becoming saints indeed.
Their love and union will increase, their interests will be one;They’ll know that they are heirs of God, and joint heirs with his Son;They’ll love God for his own dear sake, not that He’s them forgiven;And truly “sin will be their hell, and holiness their Heaven.”
Their love and union will increase, their interests will be one;
They’ll know that they are heirs of God, and joint heirs with his Son;
They’ll love God for his own dear sake, not that He’s them forgiven;
And truly “sin will be their hell, and holiness their Heaven.”
Their company will be the saints, and each will be so dear,They’ll love to make a sacrifice to benefit them here.They’ll love for their Redeemer’s sake; as answers face to face,So will their hearts while they in each, his lovely image trace.
Their company will be the saints, and each will be so dear,
They’ll love to make a sacrifice to benefit them here.
They’ll love for their Redeemer’s sake; as answers face to face,
So will their hearts while they in each, his lovely image trace.
This dread, dull sameness will not long among the saints bear sway,The glory in their midst will soon purge all the chaff away;Thus separated from the vile, the strong be stronger still;The great refreshing time is near, and all may come who will.
This dread, dull sameness will not long among the saints bear sway,
The glory in their midst will soon purge all the chaff away;
Thus separated from the vile, the strong be stronger still;
The great refreshing time is near, and all may come who will.
But, oh! some will not be refined, nor give their idols up;Such never will let Jesus in, nor with him ever sup.They yet may linger round the shore, and think to get on board,But they must come to Heaven’s terms; the standard can’t be lowered.
But, oh! some will not be refined, nor give their idols up;
Such never will let Jesus in, nor with him ever sup.
They yet may linger round the shore, and think to get on board,
But they must come to Heaven’s terms; the standard can’t be lowered.
Thrice happy they who’re in the ship, though tossed with angry waves!“Our Father’s at the helm,” and all who trust in him he saves;Those who in heart give up their all, lie passive in his hand,He’ll bring with safety into port, to their own promised land.
Thrice happy they who’re in the ship, though tossed with angry waves!
“Our Father’s at the helm,” and all who trust in him he saves;
Those who in heart give up their all, lie passive in his hand,
He’ll bring with safety into port, to their own promised land.
While men, our faults perceiving not, would move our fame to raise,How oft our natures weakly yield to flattery and praise,Oh! what in us should e’er excite our vanity and pride!Or cause us not in lowliness, vain thoughts of self to hide?
While men, our faults perceiving not, would move our fame to raise,
How oft our natures weakly yield to flattery and praise,
Oh! what in us should e’er excite our vanity and pride!
Or cause us not in lowliness, vain thoughts of self to hide?
Let deeds of charity and love in all our life abound;Philanthrophy fails not to go, where’er a sufferer’s found,To seek the poor, degraded, low, the wicked and debased,Though his own name by slander’s tongue, be ever thus defaced.
Let deeds of charity and love in all our life abound;
Philanthrophy fails not to go, where’er a sufferer’s found,
To seek the poor, degraded, low, the wicked and debased,
Though his own name by slander’s tongue, be ever thus defaced.
These are the jewels he would gain, this course would fain pursue;That he is not like them, he asks, to whom is glory due?Who made us thus to differ here? who gives the strength and powerTo hold the victory over self, in dark temptation’s hour?
These are the jewels he would gain, this course would fain pursue;
That he is not like them, he asks, to whom is glory due?
Who made us thus to differ here? who gives the strength and power
To hold the victory over self, in dark temptation’s hour?
Let him who thinks he stands take heed; this is the word to all;The strongest may be overcome, and through temptation fall.Do we in higher circles move? are higher placed by birth?No such distinction will be known, when moldering in the earth.
Let him who thinks he stands take heed; this is the word to all;
The strongest may be overcome, and through temptation fall.
Do we in higher circles move? are higher placed by birth?
No such distinction will be known, when moldering in the earth.
But deeds of kind benevolence will live when we are dead;The poor will think how they were clothed, and shared our daily bread;The once abandoned who’ve reformed beneath our fostering care,Will bless the day they ever lived our sympathies to share.
But deeds of kind benevolence will live when we are dead;
The poor will think how they were clothed, and shared our daily bread;
The once abandoned who’ve reformed beneath our fostering care,
Will bless the day they ever lived our sympathies to share.
Such the remembrance I would have, alive or in my grave,To have been the humble instrument some sinking soul to save.For this I turn from pleasure’s scenes, to weep with those that weep;To strive their sufferings to assuage, their confidence to keep.
Such the remembrance I would have, alive or in my grave,
To have been the humble instrument some sinking soul to save.
For this I turn from pleasure’s scenes, to weep with those that weep;
To strive their sufferings to assuage, their confidence to keep.
Though on them glows the copper tint, though African their race,What matters these distinctions of their nation, lot, or place?For oh! the highest joy of earth is comfort to impartTo those who lie ’neath fortune’s frowns, with sad and suffering heart.
Though on them glows the copper tint, though African their race,
What matters these distinctions of their nation, lot, or place?
For oh! the highest joy of earth is comfort to impart
To those who lie ’neath fortune’s frowns, with sad and suffering heart.
Though hidden from the public view, unseen your acts of love,If heart and hand be clean and pure, their record lives above.Let me thus seek my neighbor’s good, thus helpless sufferers raise;Be this the glory of my fame; be deeds of love my praise.
Though hidden from the public view, unseen your acts of love,
If heart and hand be clean and pure, their record lives above.
Let me thus seek my neighbor’s good, thus helpless sufferers raise;
Be this the glory of my fame; be deeds of love my praise.
Have you again becomeTo appetite a slave?You’ve boasted victory here,Why sink beneath the wave?
Have you again become
To appetite a slave?
You’ve boasted victory here,
Why sink beneath the wave?
You say, I have no hope,No strength within me lies,And sinking still, I fearI ne’er again shall rise.
You say, I have no hope,
No strength within me lies,
And sinking still, I fear
I ne’er again shall rise.
My efforts all have failed,To keep the victory gained.Where look for refuge now?Or hope to be sustained?
My efforts all have failed,
To keep the victory gained.
Where look for refuge now?
Or hope to be sustained?
A helpless sufferer, true,On confines of despair,While knowing there’s no hope,If you continue there.
A helpless sufferer, true,
On confines of despair,
While knowing there’s no hope,
If you continue there.
Debased and losing stillLife’s elevating powers,A worse than blank you feelIn this grand world of ours.
Debased and losing still
Life’s elevating powers,
A worse than blank you feel
In this grand world of ours.
A world God loved so well,He sent his only Son,That we through him might findOn earth a Heaven begun.
A world God loved so well,
He sent his only Son,
That we through him might find
On earth a Heaven begun.
A world to which he sendsRich blessings from above,And daily here renewsHis covenant of love.
A world to which he sends
Rich blessings from above,
And daily here renews
His covenant of love.
Be moved, despairing one;Be helped again to live;God pities, and will yetA greater victory give.
Be moved, despairing one;
Be helped again to live;
God pities, and will yet
A greater victory give.
He’s waiting your return,With pardon in his hand;In his strength you can rise,And in him we can stand.
He’s waiting your return,
With pardon in his hand;
In his strength you can rise,
And in him we can stand.
Yes; stand amidst the scenesOf peril, war and strife,While Jesus is our guideTo everlasting life.
Yes; stand amidst the scenes
Of peril, war and strife,
While Jesus is our guide
To everlasting life.
Come while he waits to save.Your case will hopeless beExcept you come where GodIn Christ can make you free.
Come while he waits to save.
Your case will hopeless be
Except you come where God
In Christ can make you free.
Come and he’ll save you hereFrom sin’s destructive power,And be your all, when comesThe great decisive hour.
Come and he’ll save you here
From sin’s destructive power,
And be your all, when comes
The great decisive hour.
There’s safety only in the Lord, whate’er our station be;We may be rich, we may be poor, may be on land or sea.Life’s changing fortune will be ours where’er our lot is cast;Unchanged in mind be ours to meet each change while it shall last.
There’s safety only in the Lord, whate’er our station be;
We may be rich, we may be poor, may be on land or sea.
Life’s changing fortune will be ours where’er our lot is cast;
Unchanged in mind be ours to meet each change while it shall last.
Dear friends are with us here to day with prospects fair to live;To-morrow to the dust, in tears, their dear remains we give.Now pain and suffering is our lot; now dawns a brighter day;But soon a cloud o’ercasts the sky and shuts the light away.
Dear friends are with us here to day with prospects fair to live;
To-morrow to the dust, in tears, their dear remains we give.
Now pain and suffering is our lot; now dawns a brighter day;
But soon a cloud o’ercasts the sky and shuts the light away.
An under current often works to sweep away our peace,Our reputation is at stake, our trials fast increase.Dear reputation, dearest far, of all we’ve called our own,Must be defaced; then be it so; to God all things are known,
An under current often works to sweep away our peace,
Our reputation is at stake, our trials fast increase.
Dear reputation, dearest far, of all we’ve called our own,
Must be defaced; then be it so; to God all things are known,
Be every circumstance combined, the elements toraise; By these be every trace removed of all our evil ways.When Jesus speaks it will be calm, the storm and wind subside;Oh! may it last till all is gone of selfishness and pride.
Be every circumstance combined, the elements to
raise; By these be every trace removed of all our evil ways.
When Jesus speaks it will be calm, the storm and wind subside;
Oh! may it last till all is gone of selfishness and pride.
All else but this we could endure; this then is what we need;Our very idol must be slain, and we from self be freed.Then are we fit for Heaven’s use, to help build up God’s cause,To boldly speak in his defense, and vindicate his laws.
All else but this we could endure; this then is what we need;
Our very idol must be slain, and we from self be freed.
Then are we fit for Heaven’s use, to help build up God’s cause,
To boldly speak in his defense, and vindicate his laws.
Oh! be it ours to live for God, his glory all our aim;He’ll work in power when we come to him in Jesus’ name.All that is wrong will he remove, and bring the truth to light;Oh! we can trust our all with him; his ways are just and right.
Oh! be it ours to live for God, his glory all our aim;
He’ll work in power when we come to him in Jesus’ name.
All that is wrong will he remove, and bring the truth to light;
Oh! we can trust our all with him; his ways are just and right.
We’ll go then where he leads the way, whatever man may say.The greatest saint is nought except the Lord direct his way.Angels can’t help but through their Lord; to his arm all is due;We’ll follow him, for surely he will lead us safely through.
We’ll go then where he leads the way, whatever man may say.
The greatest saint is nought except the Lord direct his way.
Angels can’t help but through their Lord; to his arm all is due;
We’ll follow him, for surely he will lead us safely through.
God knows our needs, he overrules, and calls this work his own;We’re agents to perform his will, as he shall make it known.Thus has an Institute been built; in this his hand we see;Where health reform is lived and taught, in strictest harmony.
God knows our needs, he overrules, and calls this work his own;
We’re agents to perform his will, as he shall make it known.
Thus has an Institute been built; in this his hand we see;
Where health reform is lived and taught, in strictest harmony.
We look, admire, in joy exclaim, Come see what God hath wrought!Here invalids are raised to health, and truth and duty taught.Perverted tastes are overcome; the way to live we learn;And all who will its rules obey, a rich experience earn.
We look, admire, in joy exclaim, Come see what God hath wrought!
Here invalids are raised to health, and truth and duty taught.
Perverted tastes are overcome; the way to live we learn;
And all who will its rules obey, a rich experience earn.
The light and truth are carried forth by those who leave the place,Showing what ground may yet be gained by our degenerate race.How blest! for those who overcome their every sin and wrong,Can love the right, and walk in ways that life and health prolong.
The light and truth are carried forth by those who leave the place,
Showing what ground may yet be gained by our degenerate race.
How blest! for those who overcome their every sin and wrong,
Can love the right, and walk in ways that life and health prolong.
None can appreciate its worth, but those who test its powers;This grand reform! how great and good! Its blessings shall be ours.Pure nature’s fruits no art require to gratify the taste,And those who stop at her demands, nor time nor substance waste.
None can appreciate its worth, but those who test its powers;
This grand reform! how great and good! Its blessings shall be ours.
Pure nature’s fruits no art require to gratify the taste,
And those who stop at her demands, nor time nor substance waste.
Who will escape the many ills increasing on the land?The cleansed and purified alone, diseases can withstand.Haste, then, the cleansing process here, God’s precepts all obey,And be prepared to stand when comes the great and dreadful day.
Who will escape the many ills increasing on the land?
The cleansed and purified alone, diseases can withstand.
Haste, then, the cleansing process here, God’s precepts all obey,
And be prepared to stand when comes the great and dreadful day.
Though knowledge here is power, yet ’tis love subdues the heart,Subjects the will to Heaven, and will endless life impart.It conquers every passion; and the soul that feels its powerMoves in a world of freedom, within its own loved bower.
Though knowledge here is power, yet ’tis love subdues the heart,
Subjects the will to Heaven, and will endless life impart.
It conquers every passion; and the soul that feels its power
Moves in a world of freedom, within its own loved bower.
’Tis shielded, safely shielded; the interior nought can reach;No outward condemnation can this inward love impeach.No weapon formed can prosper; and it fears no outward foe:While all within is conquered, ’tis a Heaven begun below.
’Tis shielded, safely shielded; the interior nought can reach;
No outward condemnation can this inward love impeach.
No weapon formed can prosper; and it fears no outward foe:
While all within is conquered, ’tis a Heaven begun below.
The world’s applause, its censure too, are both alike received;If undeserved, ’tis heeded not, though all may be believed.It knows no good but that in God, it bears life’s every ill,And moves undauntedly along, in Heaven’s own blessed will.
The world’s applause, its censure too, are both alike received;
If undeserved, ’tis heeded not, though all may be believed.
It knows no good but that in God, it bears life’s every ill,
And moves undauntedly along, in Heaven’s own blessed will.
Though outwardly you see conveyed “a libel in a frown,”You’ll stand unmoved, though they may “wink your reputation down;”Your deeds of charity assailed, your motives questioned too—Reviled, you’ll not revile again, nor fear what man can do.
Though outwardly you see conveyed “a libel in a frown,”
You’ll stand unmoved, though they may “wink your reputation down;”
Your deeds of charity assailed, your motives questioned too—
Reviled, you’ll not revile again, nor fear what man can do.
Oh! for the gold tried in the fire—our eyes anointed here—White raiment that we may be clothed, and not in shame appear.We then should move in harmony; our God would own and bless;We then should see his works abound in love and righteousness.
Oh! for the gold tried in the fire—our eyes anointed here—
White raiment that we may be clothed, and not in shame appear.
We then should move in harmony; our God would own and bless;
We then should see his works abound in love and righteousness.
The day is near, it hasteth on, when saints will all unite;When every sin will be confessed, and every wrong made right;When we shall see as we are seen, and know as we are known,And sit with Jesus, as he sits upon his Father’s throne.
The day is near, it hasteth on, when saints will all unite;
When every sin will be confessed, and every wrong made right;
When we shall see as we are seen, and know as we are known,
And sit with Jesus, as he sits upon his Father’s throne.
Oh! glory, hallelujah to our high, exalted King;We’ll praise him here, we’ll praise him there, and make Heaven’s arches ring.Who then can sacrifice too much, too much for him endure?So may we purify ourselves, as Christ our Lord is pure.
Oh! glory, hallelujah to our high, exalted King;
We’ll praise him here, we’ll praise him there, and make Heaven’s arches ring.
Who then can sacrifice too much, too much for him endure?
So may we purify ourselves, as Christ our Lord is pure.
Though earth delights and charms us here, its treasures are but naught;In wisdom’s light ’tis clearly seen how dear its love is bought,The price though now not realized, must soon be strictly paid.For this the soul must perish soon, in hopeless ruin laid.
Though earth delights and charms us here, its treasures are but naught;
In wisdom’s light ’tis clearly seen how dear its love is bought,
The price though now not realized, must soon be strictly paid.
For this the soul must perish soon, in hopeless ruin laid.
The second death must be endured in anguish and despair;While you will see the righteous saved, no friend can reach you there.Oh! loss beyond all losses! Then what profit here to gainThis fleeting world, and call at last for endless life, in vain!
The second death must be endured in anguish and despair;
While you will see the righteous saved, no friend can reach you there.
Oh! loss beyond all losses! Then what profit here to gain
This fleeting world, and call at last for endless life, in vain!
The blood of Jesus set at naught—rejected every call—The Spirit will be forced to yield, and let God’s vengeance fall.The wrath of God e’en now impends; and soon you’ll feel its weight.Oh! flee for refuge while there’s hope; full soon ’twill be too late.
The blood of Jesus set at naught—rejected every call—
The Spirit will be forced to yield, and let God’s vengeance fall.
The wrath of God e’en now impends; and soon you’ll feel its weight.
Oh! flee for refuge while there’s hope; full soon ’twill be too late.
A moment more the Saviour waits; for you his blood he pleads,My blood! my Father, oh, my blood! forgive the sinner’s deeds!But if you still refuse to bow, and be by him forgiven,You must be banished from the Lord, and find no place in Heaven.
A moment more the Saviour waits; for you his blood he pleads,
My blood! my Father, oh, my blood! forgive the sinner’s deeds!
But if you still refuse to bow, and be by him forgiven,
You must be banished from the Lord, and find no place in Heaven.
To free from sin and second death, the Saviour’s blood has cost—What weeping and what wailing when you see what you have lost.God’s justice will be manifest in your destruction sure;And hopeless agony will be your portion to endure.
To free from sin and second death, the Saviour’s blood has cost—
What weeping and what wailing when you see what you have lost.
God’s justice will be manifest in your destruction sure;
And hopeless agony will be your portion to endure.
Once more in prayer I prostrate fall, once more I’ll plead your case;Have mercy, Lord, and here bestow unmerited free grace.He’s knocking now! he’s wet with dew! Oh! let the Saviour in;He’ll sup with you, and you with him; he’ll cleanse you from all sin.
Once more in prayer I prostrate fall, once more I’ll plead your case;
Have mercy, Lord, and here bestow unmerited free grace.
He’s knocking now! he’s wet with dew! Oh! let the Saviour in;
He’ll sup with you, and you with him; he’ll cleanse you from all sin.
He’ll shelter from the coming storm; no plague shall e’er come nigh;He’ll hide from God’s avenging wrath, and you shall never die.Life’s water pure is here: come, drink! ’tis freely offered still;The Spirit and the Bride say, Come! Come, whosoever will.
He’ll shelter from the coming storm; no plague shall e’er come nigh;
He’ll hide from God’s avenging wrath, and you shall never die.
Life’s water pure is here: come, drink! ’tis freely offered still;
The Spirit and the Bride say, Come! Come, whosoever will.
Are we suffering persecution, trying God’s commands to keep?Are our spirits crushed within us? Do we oft in silence weep?From the world naught else we look for; we expect its coldest frown;But when those we love turn from us, how we sink in sorrow down!
Are we suffering persecution, trying God’s commands to keep?
Are our spirits crushed within us? Do we oft in silence weep?
From the world naught else we look for; we expect its coldest frown;
But when those we love turn from us, how we sink in sorrow down!
Where we’ve felt God’s image planted, where in union we have prayed,Where our faith has gained the victory, and we knew from Heaven our aid,Oh! what change has cooled the fervor; what could mean this cold retreat?Lord, let thine in union ever, and in love, each other greet.
Where we’ve felt God’s image planted, where in union we have prayed,
Where our faith has gained the victory, and we knew from Heaven our aid,
Oh! what change has cooled the fervor; what could mean this cold retreat?
Lord, let thine in union ever, and in love, each other greet.
God’s own searching eye is on us! Jesus feels our every grief!He’ll not leave his own thus wounded, but will bring them swift relief;Making known our every duty, teaching where he’d have us go,Saying, Fear not! I’ll be with you, and all needed help bestow.
God’s own searching eye is on us! Jesus feels our every grief!
He’ll not leave his own thus wounded, but will bring them swift relief;
Making known our every duty, teaching where he’d have us go,
Saying, Fear not! I’ll be with you, and all needed help bestow.
Though you see your bread withholden, find no place to lay your head;Cast your all on Heaven’s protection: God to life can raise the dead!Who the widow’s oil replenished? Who kept good her needed store,When Elijah shared her morsel, having naught to purchase more?
Though you see your bread withholden, find no place to lay your head;
Cast your all on Heaven’s protection: God to life can raise the dead!
Who the widow’s oil replenished? Who kept good her needed store,
When Elijah shared her morsel, having naught to purchase more?
If we blindly hug earth’s treasures, where shall we a shelter find?Soon the plagues will be upon us! all then on the altar bind.Do you say ’tis on the altar? By the fruit it will be known:God is searching out his people, and is sealing for his own.
If we blindly hug earth’s treasures, where shall we a shelter find?
Soon the plagues will be upon us! all then on the altar bind.
Do you say ’tis on the altar? By the fruit it will be known:
God is searching out his people, and is sealing for his own.
Let us fear lest we offend him, and he pass our dwelling by:He will have a holy people, whom no plague can e’er come nigh.Haste to get thee disentangled! Haste to get from bondage free!Lose not for this world’s possessions, life and immortality!
Let us fear lest we offend him, and he pass our dwelling by:
He will have a holy people, whom no plague can e’er come nigh.
Haste to get thee disentangled! Haste to get from bondage free!
Lose not for this world’s possessions, life and immortality!
I look back to the past, call to mind former days;When life was all life, all illumined its rays;When I entered the ball room in pleasing attire,Having all that my vain mind or wish could desire.
I look back to the past, call to mind former days;
When life was all life, all illumined its rays;
When I entered the ball room in pleasing attire,
Having all that my vain mind or wish could desire.
I had naught here to check, all elated in mind,Both pastor and people the gay circle joined;When the priest craved a blessing on dainties most rare,Oh! why should I think any harm could be there?
I had naught here to check, all elated in mind,
Both pastor and people the gay circle joined;
When the priest craved a blessing on dainties most rare,
Oh! why should I think any harm could be there?
No cloud had come o’er me; all prospects were bright;This vain course I pursued with exquisite delight;I dreamed not that tears would these pleasures efface,That sickness and death would come in for a place.
No cloud had come o’er me; all prospects were bright;
This vain course I pursued with exquisite delight;
I dreamed not that tears would these pleasures efface,
That sickness and death would come in for a place.
But my own dear loved father, in manhood and bloom,Was called from life’s stage and consigned to the tomb;How great such a change, and how solemn the day,The same priest referred to was with us to pray.
But my own dear loved father, in manhood and bloom,
Was called from life’s stage and consigned to the tomb;
How great such a change, and how solemn the day,
The same priest referred to was with us to pray.
Being then in youth’s bloom, in its glory and prime,My grief wore away with the swiftness of time.True, a loss I sustained in his death; but, all o’er,I again joined the song and the dance as before.
Being then in youth’s bloom, in its glory and prime,
My grief wore away with the swiftness of time.
True, a loss I sustained in his death; but, all o’er,
I again joined the song and the dance as before.
The scene soon was changed, we could just number years,When my mother, my dear mother left me in tears;She died e’re I’d come to the age of eighteen;How deep was my grief, how afflictive the scene.
The scene soon was changed, we could just number years,
When my mother, my dear mother left me in tears;
She died e’re I’d come to the age of eighteen;
How deep was my grief, how afflictive the scene.
To cheer, friends and relatives strove but in vain;From weeping incessant I scarce could refrain;The wound seemed too deep for this world e’er to heal;That I’d no hope in God, I was then brought to feel.
To cheer, friends and relatives strove but in vain;
From weeping incessant I scarce could refrain;
The wound seemed too deep for this world e’er to heal;
That I’d no hope in God, I was then brought to feel.
Repentance moved Jesus my sins to forgive;I could trust in his word, on his promises live;But I found no response, none to guide in the place;Those around had no faith in a change wrought by grace.
Repentance moved Jesus my sins to forgive;
I could trust in his word, on his promises live;
But I found no response, none to guide in the place;
Those around had no faith in a change wrought by grace.
’Midst life’s changing scenes, I most happily foundA people who knew Heaven’s own joyful sound;Our union and love then were truly divine,I’d the witness, and knew Heaven’s blessings were mine.
’Midst life’s changing scenes, I most happily found
A people who knew Heaven’s own joyful sound;
Our union and love then were truly divine,
I’d the witness, and knew Heaven’s blessings were mine.
I could then bless the Lord for this chastening rod;How far above earth’s this enjoyment in God;The hight of earth’s pleasures all dwindled away,In the light and the glory of this blessed day.
I could then bless the Lord for this chastening rod;
How far above earth’s this enjoyment in God;
The hight of earth’s pleasures all dwindled away,
In the light and the glory of this blessed day.
This dear, lone room, a sacred place—Here friends have met in love’s embrace;Here, too, have died the loved and dear,The circle first was broken here.
This dear, lone room, a sacred place—
Here friends have met in love’s embrace;
Here, too, have died the loved and dear,
The circle first was broken here.
The lonely hearth, the vacant chair,But tell the father is not there.The only daughter, loved and true,Here bid earth’s scenes a last adieu.
The lonely hearth, the vacant chair,
But tell the father is not there.
The only daughter, loved and true,
Here bid earth’s scenes a last adieu.
I love here to recall the past,And mourn o’er joys too bright to last.In fancy’s vision here I seeThose forms so loved, so dear to me.
I love here to recall the past,
And mourn o’er joys too bright to last.
In fancy’s vision here I see
Those forms so loved, so dear to me.
We know that help on one is laidWho has his life a ransom paid;We know his blood can cleanse from sin,And make us clean and pure within.
We know that help on one is laid
Who has his life a ransom paid;
We know his blood can cleanse from sin,
And make us clean and pure within.
We know the arm that’s strong to save,The power that rescues from the grave.We know that ne’er Jehovah’s earIs deafened that he cannot hear.
We know the arm that’s strong to save,
The power that rescues from the grave.
We know that ne’er Jehovah’s ear
Is deafened that he cannot hear.
Taken in Satan’s artful snare,Who once had power with God in prayer,Their minds and hearts by sin enslaved—Can such go through? can such be saved?
Taken in Satan’s artful snare,
Who once had power with God in prayer,
Their minds and hearts by sin enslaved—
Can such go through? can such be saved?
Though we may not their case decide,The faithful all will be supplied.They’ll see “the cloud of radiant light,”“The fount of glory” full and bright.
Though we may not their case decide,
The faithful all will be supplied.
They’ll see “the cloud of radiant light,”
“The fount of glory” full and bright.
They see the signs fulfilling fast;And soon earth’s conflict will be past:Nor do they shrink from being there;For they presume not nor despair.
They see the signs fulfilling fast;
And soon earth’s conflict will be past:
Nor do they shrink from being there;
For they presume not nor despair.
They know in whom they have believed;Their Saviour victory has achieved.Though heaven and earth to ruin go,His promise will no failure know.
They know in whom they have believed;
Their Saviour victory has achieved.
Though heaven and earth to ruin go,
His promise will no failure know.
No cause for doubts or darkness here,For troubled mind or slavish fear.Trials and crosses we’ll receive,If some may turn to God and live.
No cause for doubts or darkness here,
For troubled mind or slavish fear.
Trials and crosses we’ll receive,
If some may turn to God and live.
But those who will not heed the call,For God and Heaven to give up all,May well sink down in dark despair;For they will gain no entrance there.
But those who will not heed the call,
For God and Heaven to give up all,
May well sink down in dark despair;
For they will gain no entrance there.
Out from life’s hour glass we must see our sands have nearly run,And we with social scenes in life shall surely soon have done.Be this improved, then, for our good; our last days be our best,And in the final gathering we be found among the blest.
Out from life’s hour glass we must see our sands have nearly run,
And we with social scenes in life shall surely soon have done.
Be this improved, then, for our good; our last days be our best,
And in the final gathering we be found among the blest.
On us is seen th’ effect of age; we see the furrowed brow.Time’s stern realities o’ertake, and we are forced to bow.Compared the once bright, sparkling eye, the rosy, blooming cheek,Our present looks, infirmities, and form, do volumes speak.
On us is seen th’ effect of age; we see the furrowed brow.
Time’s stern realities o’ertake, and we are forced to bow.
Compared the once bright, sparkling eye, the rosy, blooming cheek,
Our present looks, infirmities, and form, do volumes speak.
Though some most helpless, others bowed, on all is seen decay,There’re those o’er three-score years and ten who’re youthful, blithe, and gay.Be such, then, hopeful, full of life, as may become us here.There’s much at best t’ embitter life, to make it sad and drear.
Though some most helpless, others bowed, on all is seen decay,
There’re those o’er three-score years and ten who’re youthful, blithe, and gay.
Be such, then, hopeful, full of life, as may become us here.
There’s much at best t’ embitter life, to make it sad and drear.
We have unfading beauty here, if we have love divine,Howe’er defaced by time and age will nature’s works outshine;Its rays of light reflecting o’er this moral atmosphere,Will still be seen and felt for good, though we may disappear.
We have unfading beauty here, if we have love divine,
Howe’er defaced by time and age will nature’s works outshine;
Its rays of light reflecting o’er this moral atmosphere,
Will still be seen and felt for good, though we may disappear.
This present meeting then will seem a little Heaven below,Its influence, too, be spread abroad wherever we may go.Be this the pleasing, glad result; and then in fadeless bloom,We shall in beauty be arrayed beyond the silent tomb.
This present meeting then will seem a little Heaven below,
Its influence, too, be spread abroad wherever we may go.
Be this the pleasing, glad result; and then in fadeless bloom,
We shall in beauty be arrayed beyond the silent tomb.
What though while here we soar in fame,And gain earth’s most illustrious name,Have heaps on heaps of sordid gold,No pleasures here desired, withhold.
What though while here we soar in fame,
And gain earth’s most illustrious name,
Have heaps on heaps of sordid gold,
No pleasures here desired, withhold.
Be mayor, emperor and king;To light and use improvements bring;For having some great place explored,Be worshiped, honored and adored;Your influence o’er an empire spread,And you looked up to as the head;What then? the king and hero dies;And though ’tis said the great here lies,’T might well be asked, “False marble, where?Nothing but sordid dust lies here.”Thus earth’s career, however grand,When called before their judge to stand,If not to God and Heaven resigned,Ere to the tomb they were consigned,Will prove no covering for the head,Though banners here were for them spread.What horror then must seize the heart,When God commands, from him depart;Though laws and statutes here they made,This sentence then must be obeyed.
Be mayor, emperor and king;
To light and use improvements bring;
For having some great place explored,
Be worshiped, honored and adored;
Your influence o’er an empire spread,
And you looked up to as the head;
What then? the king and hero dies;
And though ’tis said the great here lies,
’T might well be asked, “False marble, where?
Nothing but sordid dust lies here.”
Thus earth’s career, however grand,
When called before their judge to stand,
If not to God and Heaven resigned,
Ere to the tomb they were consigned,
Will prove no covering for the head,
Though banners here were for them spread.
What horror then must seize the heart,
When God commands, from him depart;
Though laws and statutes here they made,
This sentence then must be obeyed.
Sin’s dread beginning here we know,Its issue none on earth can show;But oh! the “end, the dreadful end,”Of those who have in God no friend.
Sin’s dread beginning here we know,
Its issue none on earth can show;
But oh! the “end, the dreadful end,”
Of those who have in God no friend.
Ye idols all depart,The Lord shall have my heart;I’m his by right.On him my sins were laid;He has my ransom paid,In God’s pure sight.
Ye idols all depart,
The Lord shall have my heart;
I’m his by right.
On him my sins were laid;
He has my ransom paid,
In God’s pure sight.
Through him I’ll conquer too,And all my sins subdue;In him be free.He died to have it so,And in his strength I’ll go,Till him I see.
Through him I’ll conquer too,
And all my sins subdue;
In him be free.
He died to have it so,
And in his strength I’ll go,
Till him I see.
Oh! shall I see his face,And rest in his embraceForevermore?My soul is on the wingTo glorify my King;Him I adore.
Oh! shall I see his face,
And rest in his embrace
Forevermore?
My soul is on the wing
To glorify my King;
Him I adore.
All Heaven adore him now,In adoration bow;It is his due.For saints shall swell the songOf the angelic throng,In earth made new.
All Heaven adore him now,
In adoration bow;
It is his due.
For saints shall swell the song
Of the angelic throng,
In earth made new.
They’ll see him as he is,And know that they are his;Be like him made.In union, all the same,There’ll be to his dear name,True homage paid.
They’ll see him as he is,
And know that they are his;
Be like him made.
In union, all the same,
There’ll be to his dear name,
True homage paid.
Hail, that all-glorious place,When all the ransomed race,Their voices raise;And all with sweet accord,Give glory to the Lord,In ceaseless praise.
Hail, that all-glorious place,
When all the ransomed race,
Their voices raise;
And all with sweet accord,
Give glory to the Lord,
In ceaseless praise.
In Eden beauty dressed,Will be each heavenly guest,All blooming fair.This inward truth we know,And there we long to go;God will be there.
In Eden beauty dressed,
Will be each heavenly guest,
All blooming fair.
This inward truth we know,
And there we long to go;
God will be there.
Annie Rebekah Smith, only daughter of Samuel and Rebekah Smith, was born in West Wilton, N. H., March 16, 1828. When ten years of age, she was converted and joined the Baptist church, in which connection she remained till 1844, when she embraced the doctrine of the soon coming of Christ, and withdrew from the church that she might more freely engage in the work of preparation for that event. After the passing of the time in 1844, being thrown with others into doubt respecting our position in the prophetic calendar, she pursued her favorite occupations of studying and teaching. Commencing in 1844, as assistant in a select school kept by Miss Sarah Livermore, in Wilton, between that time and 1850 she taught, in different places, seven district schools, attending, meanwhile, a term each in Milford, Hancock and New Ipswich, N. H., and six terms at the Ladies’ Female Seminary in Charlestown, Mass. At the latter place she fitted herself for a teacher in Oil Painting and French.
In 1850 she took a sketch of Boston and Charlestown from Prospect Hill, Somerville, three miles distant. The effort was too much for her eyes, and, for about eight months she almost entirely lost the use of them. On account of this difficulty, she was obliged to decline a proposition to teach in the seminary at Hancock, which made her misfortune seem almost intolerable, so great was her disappointment. The only alleviation which she found for her affliction in this time, was in becoming an agent for, and contributor to, “The Ladies’ Wreath,” a monthly magazine published in New York. Her contributions to this periodical, with the exception of a few pieces published in the “Odd Fellow,” and some other papers, were her first efforts at public writing.
Her friends in Charlestown, thinking the salt water would prove a benefit to her eyes, invited her to spend a season with them. She went in 1851, not expecting to be gone many weeks, but did not return till November, 1852, when she was called home by the sickness and death of her father. During her stay in Boston and vicinity she went to Portland and Nova Scotia. I requested her to go once, to please me, to sister Temple’s, in Boston, to a Seventh-day Adventist meeting. Some remarkable incidents in connection with her attendance at this meeting, together with the faithful efforts of the friends of the truth, arrested her attention; and in about three weeks she committed herself upon the Sabbath and its attendant truths. The next week she sent to the“Advent Review” the piece of poetry entitled “Fear not, Little Flock,” which was her first contribution to that paper. The “Review” was then published in Saratoga, N. Y., and she was immediately requested to take a position in that office. She replied that she could not, on account of the trouble with her eyes, but was told to come as she was, or to that effect. Arriving there, the directions in James 5:14, 15, were followed, and her eyes were so far strengthened in answer to prayer, that she was soon enabled to engage without restraint in the work of the office.
With strong faith and fervent zeal, she entered heartily into the work. She rejoiced in the new-found truth. The whole current of her mind was changed, and nobler aspirations took possession of her heart. From a position of exaltation and honor among men, she had now turned her eyes to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, reserved in Heaven for the followers of Christ, and to a place at last with the redeemed before the throne. Her contributions to the “Review” while it was published in Saratoga and Rochester, N. Y., afterwards published in her volume of poems, entitled, “Home here, and Home in Heaven,” show the themes upon which her mind delighted to dwell.
In November, 1852, as already stated, she was called home by the sickness of her father, who died the first of December following. In January, 1853, before returning to N. Y., she was solicited, in connection with her brother Uriah, to take charge of theAcademy in Mont Vernon, N. H., with a salary for the first year, of one thousand dollars, and a prospect of increase as they should bring the school up to a greater degree of prosperity. But she preferred to labor in some capacity where her efforts would tend more directly to spread a knowledge of the truth among the people, and lead them to seek salvation through Christ the Saviour of men. She therefore declined the offer, preferring, without any pecuniary consideration, to again connect herself with the office.
Two years later, in November, 1854, she came home to West Wilton, suffering under the first stages of that disease which shortly brought her to the grave. The following from a letter to a friend, written soon after her death, sets forth the occasion of her last sickness, and the circumstances attending the closing hours of her life:
On account of sickness in the family where she boarded, she assisted in the kitchen awhile, where was a warm stove, and in consequence of a letter being left, she hastened with it to the office unprepared for a cold, wet morning. Had she returned immediately, as she should have done, all might have been well. But she stayed through the day, as her work was there, and became very cold and chilly. That cold undoubtedly seated itself immediately upon her lungs, and threw her into night sweats and a hard cough, which ended but with her life.
So rapid was the wasting process of her disease, that within six weeks from the time she took the cold, she rode up in the cars, on her way home, with an intimate acquaintance of hers who did not knowher. He told me he thought of her, but thought it could not be Annie, she was so altered in her looks, being so poor and pale. Her brother Samuel said he did not think he should have known her had he met her unexpectedly, and said with a most dejected look, “I don’t think she will live.”
She came home the 7th of November, kept about and worked some till about the 1st of December, when she had a very distressed day, and raised blood. Having confidence in water treatment, she went where she could receive such treatment, to see the effect it would have, and to get information. She continued this course till the following February. She felt better while under the exhilarating effect of the water, but became satisfied that she was no better.
The 14th of February, most providentially, Bro. Joseph Bates called on us, and stopped till the 18th. This was the occasion of a great blessing to her. At the commencement of the Sabbath, the 16th, the spirit and power of God descended upon her, and she praised God with a loud voice. I felt at the same time the sweet influence of Heaven, and the presence of holy angels. I believed God was hearing prayer, and granting his blessing, and joined them in praising and giving glory to his name. Bro. B. then said to Annie, “You needed this blessing, and now if the Lord sees that it is best for you to be laid away in the grave, he will go with you.”
She appeared some stronger and better a few days in the day time, but I could not see that she rested, or was much different nights. Her cough remained obstinate, and I do not think the disease was ever stayed. She was greatly strengthened in a spiritual point of view, and engaged more earnestly in exhorting people to believe the Word, and be ready for the coming of the Lord. She would feel impressed to go out and talk with different individuals upon the truth, and was strengthened and blessed in so doing. Victorywas generally gained, so that the truth was verified, that whom the Lord makes free is free indeed. We had from that time as long as she lived, some of the most sweet, melting seasons of prayer that I ever enjoyed, often accompanied with shouts of praise to the Lord.
It was evident to all around that Annie was failing. Her symptoms became alarming. The 20th of March her brother Samuel was taken suddenly and very sick with influenza and fever, three miles and a half away at his boarding place, and unable to get home. Annie said I must go and attend upon him, even if she never saw me again.
The 30th she went to Mason Village to stay with sister Gorham, while I was with her brother. While there, word came that Annie was much worse. The 12th of April I went to Mason Village, and found her very much worse than I expected. For twelve days her death was almost hourly expected by those around. She said to me, “Mother, that poem I’ve been writing since January, 1855, [since published under the title of “Home Here and Home in Heaven,”] I suppose must all be lost. It is unconnected, and nothing can be done with it to advantage, without me.” I went to Wilton and got the papers containing what she had written, but she was not able to do anything with them. She then prayed that she might be enabled to finish the poem, and prepare the book she had in contemplation; that if she did not live, it might be that through it, she being dead would yet speak, and that good might be done.
Sabbath April 21, the meeting was at sister Gorham’s. We did not hold it in her room on account of her low state of health, but went in to close the exercises, when to our surprise she commenced praying with more than usual strength. The presence of God was manifested, and his power rested down upon her in a remarkable manner. She said she wasraised up to go home, and to do the will of the Lord. She rested better that night than she had for a long while. The next day she rode to Wilton, seven miles, to the astonishment of all. Many from our village had been to see her, and taken their leave, never expecting to see her again; and when they saw the carriage drive up, they came in to inquire when she died. Great was their surprise to find her able to walk about the room. She was again in her own quiet home, and soon commenced on her work. She was not able to write much herself, and I kept paper and pencil to write what she dictated at her will.
The 28th of May she had arranged and composed the last verse of her poem “Home Here and Home in Heaven.” The 29th, her brother Uriah came home just in time to write it off for the press, and to assist her in arranging her other poetry for reprinting. She, however, made some alterations, and some little additions while he was copying it.
She dreamed in February that she was with a people, seemingly spectators, and before her was the most beautiful road, which glistened like gold. There was a company arranged by the side, and some one came to her with a peony, and said to her, “You must go over upon that road and hold up this peony.” She stood there dressed in white, holding up the peony, when she awoke with the most pleasing impression, that she had yet something more to do for the Lord. She fully believed after she came from Mason, that she should accomplish the work she had in view, and that this was what was represented by her dream. The peony was her favorite flower, and as soon as they were in blossom, Uriah sketched and engraved one for the book, as is seen on the title page.
She often said in view of her dream, that when the book was done there would be a change in her. She should either be raised up to live, or she should die. Her prayer was answered. The book was all doneon her part, and as she had a desire to see the proof-sheet of her poem, and heard that help was needed at the office, she said to Uriah, “I feel bad to have you staying on my account, when it seems you might be accomplishing more good.” It was thought she might live till frosty nights, if no longer. Under these considerations, Uriah left for Rochester the 17th of July. He had not been gone with the manuscript; more than three hours, when she said, “I am ready now to die;” and she did not live quite ten days after.
The 18th she wrote the piece “Our Duty.” The 19th, at 3 o’clock,P. M., she said, “Mother, some change has taken place. I don’t think I shall live through the day.” I saw there was a change, and stayed by her. Night drew on. No one happened in. She said, “It seems to me I could not breathe to have many in the room.” I told her I was not afraid to be alone with her if she did die. She seemed gratified, as she wanted everything as quiet as could be, and she was not able to talk much with people if they were in. Her brother John and myself stayed with her during the night, when it seemed that any moment might be her last. She delivered many messages for different individuals, especially for her brother Samuel, if she did not live to see him. She said, “My mind was never clearer; I could do a sum in arithmetic.”
About 2 o’clock she looked very happy. I said to John, “Annie is being blessed.” She soon exclaimed, “Glory to God,” a number of times, louder than she had spoken for a long while. She said, “Heaven is opened. I know Jesus is mine, and that he will save me. I shall come forth at the first resurrection;” and exhorted us to prepare for the time of trouble, and to be ready to meet her at that day, which she said she did not think was far distant.
Friday morning, the 20th, I wanted to write to Uriah, but she said “It will make no difference, I thinkI am dying; don’t leave me, mother, while I live.” We sent for Samuel, and for sister Gorham. She remained about the same. Those who came in thought she must be just gone. They said it did not seem like a sick and dying room, she appeared so happy. She would look upon them and smile when she could not speak. Sabbath, July 21, she seemed better. Sunday, the 22d, more distressed, though she had some pleasing, and I trust profitable intercourse with her relatives and some of her particular friends. Monday morning, more comfortable. Some of us entertained hopes that she might, even then, revive and live. Monday night her distress returned. She said, “I think I cannot live.” Thursday morning, the 24th, she composed her last two verses, “Oh! shed not a tear o’er the spot where I sleep,” &c. In the afternoon she had a conflict with the enemy, and seemed to lose sight of Jesus. I told her it was no strange thing; it was only a sign the Lord was near and would deliver. She found it even so. Before night she was enabled to triumph over all the powers of darkness, and praised God aloud. She prayed for patience to suffer all her Father’s will, saying, “I shall not suffer any too much. I can bear anything while Jesus sustains me;” and many like expressions.
Tuesday night was a solemn and interesting night. I stayed with her alone through the night. Neither of us slept. She was very happy, and talked much with me. She said in her former familiar way, “My mother, I’ve been afraid I should wear you all out. I’ve called after you by night and by day.” She felt bad to have me kept up as I was on her account. But she said, “I am here now, your dying girl. I think this is the last night, and you must be sure to rest when I am gone. O, my blessed mother, I shall bless you in Heaven for taking such care of me. No sorrow or suffering there. We shall all be free there. Yes, we shall all be free when we arrive at home, andwe shall live forever. Yes, and I can smile upon you now through all my sufferings.” It was her last suffering night. Wednesday, the 25th, a death coldness was upon her. In the afternoon she became more free from pain and distress. While speaking in the evening of taking care of her, she said, “I shall not want any one to sit up; you can lie on the lounge.” At 1 o’clock I called Samuel. She talked with him, called for what she wanted as usual, and told him he might lie down. About three o’clock she called him to wet her head with water, and said she felt sleepy. She was indeed going into her last sleep. Samuel wet her head, and soon after spoke to me and said, “I don’t know but Annie is dying.” I spoke to her. She took no notice, breathed a few times, and died apparently as easy as any one going into a natural sleep. Her sufferings were over. She was gone. It was 4 o’clock in the morning, July 26, 1855.
She gave many directions about her burial; wanted as little parade as possible. We were expecting Bro. and sister White. We had had a letter from Bro. H. O. Nichols, saying they were expected there, and would be likely to call on us about that time. Brn. Bates, Burr and Nichols were written to, but circumstances prevented any of them from attending her funeral. Bro. Hastings and others spoke, prayed, and sung, to the edification of all. The hymns selected were, “Unconscious now in peaceful sleep,” and “She hath passed death’s chilling billow.” It has since been said by the friends that they never attended a more interesting funeral.
Annie looked very natural; more so than at any time after she came home. It was remarked that a holy sweetness seemed to rest upon her countenance, while her remains were with us. Annie had many favors shown her. For the interest and friendship manifested, the friends have my sincere love and gratitude. Though I ever thought much of them, theyseem doubly dear since her death, especially Bro. and sister White, with whom she was so long connected. Annie loved them, and manifested an interest for them, and the work there till the last. Bro. White made her the generous donation of seventy-five dollars and other valuable presents, during her sickness.
It was a great satisfaction that I had Annie with me, and that I was enabled to take care of her while she lived. Her complaints required an uneven temperature of the room, which was unfavorable for me. I took one cold after another, and was very much worn down at the time of her death. I took an additional cold when she was buried, and have scarcely been able to do anything since. I have thought sometimes, that what I had the privilege of doing for Annie, was worth my life, if it must go; and if it were not that I was still needed as a mother, I would now myself willingly lay off the burden of life’s duties and cares.
West Wilton, N. H., Sept. 16, 1855.