Signs of the Times, Book 1 - Ellen G. White

January 19, 1882
The Missionary
Among the Churches
Healdsburg
After leaving Petaluma, I visited the church at Healdsburg.
Accompanied by Sr. Rogers, I made the journey with my own horse and
carriage, hoping thus to receive benefit healthwise. After a ride of thirtythree
miles, we were warmly welcomed to the home of Bro. and Sr. Harmon.
These friends furnished me a convenient room, where I could write or rest
undisturbed, and did all in their power for my health and happiness.
I was far from well, yet felt a duty to write upon important matters that
would not admit of delay. Being unable to sleep more than a few hours at
night, I would rise at three A.M. and write by lamplight. Such a strain upon
mind and body could not be long endured. Intense pain in my eyes soon
compelled me to lay aside my writing.
This was a severe trial. My thoughts seemed consuming me. I felt an
unceasing anxiety for the cause of God, especially for the institutions which
his own hand has established. There is a great lack of spiritual life among us.
Religious declension is seen and felt everywhere. As the faithful standardbearers
fall at their post, who will come up to fill their place, and to work
with unselfish interest in the cause of God? As I thought of these things, my
soul was troubled day and night. I felt the need of my husband's help. The
future looked dark and lonely. Weighed down by disease and by a heavier
burden of care, anxiety, and sorrow, I knew that unless the Lord should come
to my help, and the balm of Gilead should be applied to soul and body, I
1125