Testimonies for the Church Volume 1 - A New You Ministry

devotional, he never sought the society of the young and gay, but chose rather thecompany of Christians whose conversation would instruct him in the way of life. Hismanner was serious beyond his years; he was gentle and peaceful, and his mind wasalmost constantly filled with religious thoughts. His life was pointed to, by those whoknew him, as a pattern to the youth, a living example of the grace and beauty of trueChristianity.*****Chapter IV - Leaving the Methodist ChurchMy father’s family still occasionally attended the Methodist church, and also theclass meetings held in private houses. One evening my brother Robert and myself wentto class meeting. The presiding elder was present. When it came my brother’s turn, hespoke with great humility, yet with clearness, of the necessity for a complete fitness tomeet our Saviour, when He should come in the clouds of heaven with power and greatglory. While my brother was speaking, a heavenly light glowed upon his usually palecountenance. He seemed to be carried in spirit above present surroundings, and spokeas if in the presence of Jesus. When I was called upon to speak, I arose, free in spirit,with a heart full of love and peace. I told the story of my great suffering under theconviction of sin, how I had at length received the blessing so long sought, an entireconformity to the will of God, and expressed my joy in the tidings of the soon comingof my Redeemer to take His children home.In my simplicity I expected that my Methodist brethren and sisters wouldunderstand my feelings and rejoice with me. But I was disappointed; several sistersgroaned and moved their chairs noisily, turning their backs upon me. I35