Wisconsin Meetings at Loyal, Pittsville, and Grand Rapids
By H. R. Johnson
Loyal, Pittsville, and Grand Rapids.—Jan. 21, I came to Loyal, where I remained twelve days, speaking seventeen times. These meetings were quite well attended by those not of our faith, as well as by our own. We were much pleased to see the friendly feeling manifested toward us. The Spirit of God was present during these meetings, and the truth found a place in the hearts of his people. The second Sabbath was a good day for us. Some of the brethren from Maple Works were with us. The testimonies borne and the heartfelt confessions made were evidences of the good spirit that pervaded the meeting. One brother, who had been disfellowshiped, told of his recent victory over tobacco through the Lord’s help. It was a testimony just to the point. I trust others who may be troubled with this evil will learn a lesson from this brother by going to the Lord for victory. Two more have taken hold of the truth. Feb. 3, I met with the company at Pittsville and held three meetings. Though some of the brethren are quite poor, they are trying to learn the lesson that they may render to God the things that are his. We get greater blessings from God by giving the tithe of all, than by trying to bless ourselves with the same. Feb. 6, met with the church at Grand Rapids in their yearly meeting. Held six meetings. One lady said that the gospel was preached, and said, “The Bible does not read as it used to.” No, the present truth has an advent ring to it that thrills the whole soul. I left this company feeling that the meetings were profitable to all. Feb. 10, met with the church at Stevens’ Point and held one meeting. Friday evening met with Eld. Cady at Plainfield. Eld. Cady came the next morning and nine meetings were held. God blessed in the meetings, and aided by his Spirit in searching out the precious truths of his word. Another brother here has embraced the truth. May God give our people in the State some of the same spirit of anxiety for the prosperity of the cause, that those have at the head of the work. Feb. 18, began meetings at Spring Lake. Feb. 20. H. R. Johnson. Among the Churches.—At Adams Center I labored six days. The presence of the Lord seemed very near while speaking the words of life, and the people seemed much moved; but if they do not take up the neglected duties I tried earnestly to set before them, I fear they will realize still greater leanness of soul than heretofore. I hope the seed sown will spring up and bring forth fruit “answerable to amendment of life.” Friday evening, Jan. 2, I began meetings at Plainfield, and continued over first day. A deep spiritual feeling prevailed all through. Some have remarked to me, “It seems as though old times were coming back.” The words of Matt. 24:14 and 2 Pet. 3:10-14 were the ring of their testimonies. I left them “fervent in the spirit, serving the Lord.” Jan. 5 and 6 I was at Grand Rapids and held two meetings. Jan. 8 I began meetings in the evening with the Stevens Point church, and continued there over first day. It was a source of great strength to this church that a minister could meet with them at their quarterly meeting, which was held one week later than the usual time. Union and harmony prevail among the brethren, and they long for some help that they may become more educated and encouraged in the cause of truth. Let us give the Lord the glory; for it is he that doeth the work.