Elmshaven, Sanitarium, Calif.
March 14, 1905 B.97 ’05.
We are glad that notwithstanding some delay, the property at Glendale has been secured for a sanitarium. Years ago the Lord gave me instruction that there should be a sanitarium near the city of Los Angeles. Instruction was also given that we should find properties for sale on which there would be buildings suitable for sanitarium purposes, and that we might secure such properties at a very low cost. The location of the Glendale Sanitarium meets the representation given me of places God has reserved for us. The electric cars running close by the institution make access to it very convenient. LLM 86.3
Let all connected with this sanitarium keep in mind the purpose for which the property has been secured. The institution is to act a special part in bringing souls to Christ, leading them to love God and keep His commandments. Unless the workers have a living connection with God, unless there is seen in the institution a spirit of kindness and compassion, which will recommend Bible truth and win souls to Christ, the establishment of the sanitarium will have been in vain. Spiritual as well as physical healing is to be brought to those who come for healing. LLM 86.4
Brother and Sister Burden, I am glad that you have a part in the work of the Glendale Sanitarium. May the Lord increase your wisdom and courage and faith. I am glad that Dr. Simpson and her husband can unite with you. You and Dr. Abbott and the other workers may do a precious work in letting the light of present truth shine forth in clear rays. Remember that you are doing a work for time and for eternity. You should have an ever-increasing faith in the promises of God's word. It is your privilege to seek wisdom and help from God. Come to the Saviour in humility, confessing your sins, and asking for strength and grace. LLM 86.5
The Holy Spirit enlightens the mind of the one who depends on the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, and indites a prayer of confession and repentance that is acceptable to the Lord. “We know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us, with groanings that cannot be uttered.” “He that searcheth the heart knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” LLM 87.1
Let no man boast that he does not confess the sins that the Lord has pointed out to him. If he makes no confession, he receives not forgiveness and pardon from God. He must go forth in sorrow, to work in his own strength. The enemy finds him in this position, a subject to be deceived. LLM 87.2
There are many, many of this class. May the Lord open their eyes, that they may see the danger of their self-sufficiency. A superficial work is always a snare to every professed Christian. Satan finds easy access to the heart of the one who is careless and slack in his experience, and beguiles him with seducing theories that will destroy his faith in God. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is,” as He has declared Himself personally “and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” LLM 87.3
In every sanitarium there must be kept before all in the institution the principles of true service. From the institution is to go forth light and knowledge. All connected with it are to act their part intelligently, as representatives of the truth for this time. It is that they may be trained to do true missionary work, that young people are brought to our sanitariums. LLM 87.4
If you will cooperate with God, He will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your reward. Heavenly angels will break forth into singing as souls receive the great gift of God through Jesus Christ. You may assure the sick and afflicted that Christ is the great Healer. They may believe on Him, and trust in His word; for it will never fail. LLM 87.5
“Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice; for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” LLM 87.6
What a representation is here given! “My salvation is near to come,”—that great salvation wrought out for each soul through Jesus Christ, the salvation for which the prophets have inquired and searched diligently. Our Lord is soon to come to us in mercy and compassion and love. We must go forth to receive Him as a welcome guest. LLM 87.7
The Lord Jesus calls upon every one to become interestedly engaged in the work of becoming a channel of light through which the grace of Christ may flow. Jesus has said, “Ye are the light of the world... Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” In the great salvation wrought through Jesus Christ, the unbelieving world is to be helped through the work of believers. In the work you do in the sanitarium, many may become convinced that you are indeed the children of God. LLM 87.8
“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him: and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” LLM 88.1
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” LLM 88.2
All the promises of God's word are made on gospel terms. If we on our part will fulfill the conditions, if we will seek the Lord, while He may be found, we may claim the promise: LLM 88.3
“For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign, that shall not be cut off.” LLM 88.4
Let this message be sounded to all people, Seek the Lord while He may be found. Seek Him against whom you have been in rebellion. Let us make every effort to check the seducing sentiments that would come into our ranks. Let every soul be wide-awake to close every avenue of the soul to the sophistry of Satan, as revealed in heaven and in Eden. Let us be armed with that vigilance that shall resist his enchantments. LLM 88.5
Ellen G. White
*****
Sanitarium, California.
B.-115-'05. April 12, 1905.
Dear Brother Burden,
I hear that plans are being laid for Elder W. W. Simpson to leave Southern California to labor elsewhere. If Elder Simpson feels it his duty to go, I have nothing to say against it but I had hoped to see him extend his work from Los Angeles to Redlands and Riverside. The condition of Brother Simpson's health is such that great care must be exercised in regard to the location of his field of labor. He should have suitable help, that he may be relieved from the burden of speaking so frequently. Would it not be well if Elder Corliss and Elder Simpson could labor together? LLM 88.6
Redlands and Riverside have been presented to me as places that should be worked. These two places should not longer be neglected. I hope soon to see an earnest effort put forth in their behalf. Will you please consider the advisability of establishing a sanitarium in the vicinity of these towns, with treatment-rooms in each place to act as feeders to the institution? LLM 89.1
We cannot afford to allow these places to go unwarned. Instead of Elder Simpson's going somewhere else to work, would it not be better to let a determined effort be put forth to make a success of the work in these places? There are other cities in Southern California in which a work similar to that carried on by Elder Simpson in Los Angeles should be conducted. The Lord would have His ministers working zealously for those who have never heard the truth. But Elder Simpson should have someone connected with him to help him in the work. LLM 89.2
Our people in the churches of Southern California need to arouse to a work that is necessary within their own borders. Let them awake to prayer and labor. They need more spiritual vitality. They need to be converted, that they may labor for souls. Wherever there is spiritual life, there will be an imparting as well as a receiving of light and blessings. The nourishment from God's word will be received and earnest work will be done. The act of imparting keeps open the channel for receiving. This truth our Saviour ever sought to keep before the people.” LLM 89.3
I have a message to bear to the church members in Southern California. “Arouse and avail yourselves of the opportunities open to you. While Christ pleads in your behalf, plead for yourselves, that you may be purified from every unrighteous thought, every unholy action. Make an entire surrender to God of body, soul, and spirit. Be determined to do all in your power to learn the true science of soul-saving. While the light of God's mercy still shines, gather up every divine ray. LLM 89.4
Are you prepared to sell all, that you may purchase the field that contains the treasure? Said the apostle Paul, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord... that I may win Christ, and be found in Him.” LLM 89.5
Give up the self-righteousness that you have been cherishing. If the Lord permits you to behold such work as has been done in Los Angeles, seek with all humility, to act your part. Not in your own strength, but in the strength of Christ you are to ascend the ladder heavenward round by round. Make diligent, thorough work in humbling yourselves, that the old habits and practices and all evil speaking may be put away. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Die to self; live to God. LLM 89.6
Brother Burden, say to the church that the Lord will manifest Himself to all who seek Him with humble hearts. The end of all things is at hand. Let your eyes be fixed upon Christ. As the called and chosen of God, we must represent truth in its purity. Our lives are to be such that the world will take knowledge of us that we have been with Christ, and that truth may seem to them more desirable than error. LLM 90.1
If rightly conducted, our sanitariums may exert a refining, ennobling influence, and lead many souls to Christ. The religious principles maintained in these institutions will demonstrate that there is relief for the soul, weary and sick with sin. Many are weak and sick because of disease of the soul. Let Christ be held up before them as the great Healer, Who invites them to come to Him and find rest. Tell them that the heart of Christ is drawn out in compassion and love for His blood-bought heritage. He will heal the troubled heart that looks to Him in faith. LLM 90.2
To the poor, sin-sick soul repeat the Saviour's invitation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” There is true joy in learning of Christ. LLM 90.3
Tell the suffering ones of a compassionate Saviour. He is the only physician who can heal both body and soul. He has given His life for the world, that men should not perish, but have everlasting life. He looks with compassion upon those who regard their case as hopeless. LLM 90.4
While the soul is filled with fear and terror, the mind cannot see the tender compassion of Christ. Our sanitariums are to be an agency for bringing peace and rest to the troubled minds. If you can inspire the despondent with hopeful, saving faith, contentment and cheerfulness will take the place of discouragement and unrest. Wonderful changes can then be wrought in their physical condition. Christ will restore both body and soul, and realizing His compassion and love, they will rest in Him. He is the bright and morning star, shining amid the moral darkness of this sinful, corrupt world, and all who give their hearts to Him will find peace and rest and joy. LLM 90.5
The world is filled with sickness. Sin is increasing, especially in the large cities. Death is taking away large numbers. But the great Medical Missionary invites men to come to Him. “Come unto me,” He says, “and I will give you rest.” “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” LLM 90.6
Our part is, by believing His word, to find rest in Christ Jesus. His words are spirit and life. In believing them there is rest and peace. “Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” LLM 90.7
Our prayers will reach the ear of Christ, and He will open unto us the rich treasures of His grace. Through prayer we are brought into communion with the high and holy One who inhabiteth eternity. He opens the door to every one who will knock. LLM 91.1
As I think of how the skillful Physician longs to heal every sin-sick soul, I feel so anxious that those who are drawn to our sanitariums may there find what they need for the cure of their physical and spiritual maladies. LLM 91.2
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” This invitation will be accepted by those who are burdened for souls. They will become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. LLM 91.3
The law of God is to be obeyed. Obedience is the life of the soul. It brings health and peace and assurance. Seek the Lord in every necessity, and know that you have a friend in Jesus, one who loves you with an everlasting love. He will be as an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast. When men and women come just as they are, He cleanses them from their sins, and they become His sons and daughters. LLM 91.4
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, D. C.
May 14, 1905. B. 139'05.
Dear Brother Burden,
Your letter has just been read. I had no sooner finished reading it than I said, “I will consult no one; for I have no question at all about the matter.” I advised Willie to send you a telegram without spending time to ask the advice of the brethren. Secure the property by all means, so that it can be held, and then obtain all the money you can and make sufficient payments to hold the place. This is the very property that we ought to have. Do not delay; for it is just what is needed. As soon as it is secured, a working force can begin operations in it. I think that sufficient help can be secured to carry this matter through. I want you to be sure to lose no time in securing the right to purchase the property. We will do our utmost to help raise the money. I know that Redlands and Riverside are to be worked, and I pray that the Lord may be gracious, and not allow any one else to get this property instead of us. LLM 93.1
We had a very pleasant trip from San Francisco to Washington. Several times a song-service was held in the car and this took well. Many of the passengers outside of our party united in the singing. LLM 93.2
I am recovering from the cold that I caught about three weeks before leaving home. On Thursday morning I spoke in the large tent, and on Sabbath morning I spoke again. The large tent was crowded, and I am told that my voice could be heard very distinctly even by those on the seats at the very back. I shall send you a copy of my talk when it is written out. LLM 93.3
Today, Sunday, Elder Haskell spoke in the forenoon. The afternoon meeting was broken up by a thunderstorm. The rain came through the large tent, and people were obliged to hurry away to the small tents. LLM 93.4
A good work is being done on the school and sanitarium land here. Money is coming in for the completion of the one-hundred thousand dollar fund. Last Friday morning, at a meeting held for this purpose, about six thousand dollars were handed in by the delegates for the Washington work. A great many Conferences had not at that time reported fully, and at the end of this week, there will be several thousand dollars more to hand in. LLM 93.5
We hope that this meeting will be the means of accomplishing much good. If the Lord sees that we are in earnest in seeking Him, He will be found of us. Oh, it would be sad indeed to get above the simplicity of the work. When we are humble enough to receive wisdom, the Lord will certainly teach us His way. I have such a hungering and thirsting after God! I must have a strong faith, and I must bear a decided testimony, which will not be weakened. Bible truth will prevail, and oh, how my heart longs to see our church-members obtaining a deep experience, which will stand the test that is before us. LLM 93.6
Let us seek the Lord while He may be found, and call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God; for He will abundantly pardon.” LLM 94.1
Let us make straight paths for our feet. The Lord will not leave those who love Him and keep His commandments to be spoiled by the enemy. A short work will the Lord do upon the earth, and He will stir His people mightily. A great work is to be done. Let us read and study the fifty-fifth and fifty-sixth chapters of Isaiah; for they contain wonderful encouragement, and the Lord wants us to bring all the uplifting possible to His people. LLM 94.2
“Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice; for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keeps his hand from doing any evil... LLM 94.3
“Also the sons of the stranger that hath joined themselves to the Lord, to serve Him and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; even them will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt-offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon Mine altar; for Mine house shall be called a house of prayer for all people. The Lord God, which gathereth the outcasts of Israel, saith, Yet will I gather others to Him, beside those that are gathered unto Him.” LLM 94.4
Here is the word of the Lord. Open up every place possible. We are to labor in faith, taking hold of a power that is pledged to do large things for us. We are to reach out in faith in Los Angeles and in Redlands and Riverside. LLM 94.5
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, Washington,
D. C. B. 143 ’05 May 23, 1905.
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,
I have been waiting to hear from you again regarding the place near Redlands, about which you wrote not long ago. I hope that this place can be secured, because I think that the Lord has made it possible for us to obtain it. If you have anything further to tell us, please do so. We do not want this place to be a snare to us; for I feel impressed that it will be a great blessing. I hope that you will send me a line when you have come to a decision regarding the place. LLM 94.6
Redlands and Riverside must be worked, and they could be worked from the place about which you have written us. If Brother and Sister Haskell can possibly get away from Nashville, I should like them to spend a little time in Southern California... LLM 95.1
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, Washington, D. C.,
B.145 ’05 May 24, 1905.
Dear Brother Burden,
We received your letter today. I wish to say that I cannot ask the Conference to invest in a sanitarium at Redlands. They have enough responsibilities to carry without taking upon them others. If you in Los Angeles will do your best, we will do our best. If you will do nothing, say so, and we will do nothing. If you will work intelligently, as we know you can, then we will do what we can. But if you do nothing, waiting for the Conference you will lose your chances. If you are going to depend on the Conference purchasing it, I have no hope of your obtaining it. LLM 95.2
Can you give us definite terms of payment? Then we shall know what to tell the people. I am anxious to secure the place for a sanitarium, but if you cannot state anything definite as to the terms of payment, we are left without any certain information. LLM 95.3
Brother Burden, if you wait for Brother Santee to work out the plans, there will be no hope at all in the matter. I will not write more till I hear something further from you. Telegraph us at once the price of the property, and the best terms of payment you can obtain. LLM 95.4
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, Washington, D. C.
B.-153-'05. May 28, 1905.
Dear Brother Burden,
When you wrote to me about the advisability of purchasing the property known as Loma Linda, I did not consult with anyone, because I thought this would hinder us, and I believed that we could carry the matter forward without putting the burden on the Conference. We do not desire to bring perplexity upon the Conference regarding this matter. Be assured my brother, that I never advance anything unless I have a decided impression that it should be carried out, and unless I am firmly resolved to assist. LLM 95.5
I am glad that means is in sight to make the first payment on the place; for we ought to have it. I do not know just where to look for the rest of the money needed. I have asked Brother Washburn to let me know of anyone who would be willing to lend me some money without interest. He thinks that I could get means on these terms. LLM 95.6
We will appropriate the proceeds of the sale of a certain number of copies of “Ministry of Healing” toward the purchase of this property. The book will soon be on the market. LLM 96.1
By all means secure the property, if you can; for I believe it to be the very place the Lord desires us to have. We do not desire to burden the Conference. We can as a company raise the required sum, I believe. I hope that we shall see you soon, and then we can talk these matters over. We shall have to stay here for a week after the meetings close, because Willie has some committee work to do ... LLM 96.2
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, Washington, D. C.
B.155 ’05 May 31, 1905
Dear Brother Burden,
.... We hope to see you soon now, but in regard to the purchase of “Loma Linda” I will say, Go ahead. I hope to be able to help by giving the proceeds from a certain number of copies of “Ministry of Healing.” I can do no more, except to borrow. I wish the place purchased. Do not neglect to tell me all I ought to know. I have been looking over your descriptive letter, and I am well satisfied that the place is one we ought to have. It is cheap at forty thousand dollars. We will not leave you, but will stand back of you, and help you to raise the means. In regard to the right man to manage the institution, I am confident that we shall find some one when the right time comes. LLM 98.1
Ellen G. White
*****
Takoma Park, Washington, D.C.
B. 223, 1905. June 2, 1905.
Dear Brother Burden,
I am much encouraged by the letters that I have received from you regarding Loma Linda. From your descriptions of the place, I believe it meets the representation which I have seen of what we should seek for as sanitarium locations. Such a place was presented to me a few miles from an important city. The city has recently been built up. LLM 98.2
I have tried to place before our people the representations given me regarding sanitariums in the country, and I have urged upon them the necessity of establishing our sanitariums outside of the cities. I have had repeatedly presented to me the advantages of securing locations some miles out of the cities. Those who follow the counsel of God in providing places where the sick and suffering can receive proper treatment will be guided to the right places for the establishment of their work. LLM 98.3
Let our sanitariums be located where there is an abundance of land. I can see the advantage of such a place as Loma Linda. The Lord worked to help us to secure this property. The work of this institution is to be carried forward on pure, elevated lines. It can be conducted in such a way that the truth will be presented as the rock upon which to build. LLM 98.4
In order that our institutions shall teach right lessons, there must be connected with them men of such simplicity that they are willing to learn of the great Teacher. “To you it is given,” Christ said, “to the people who keep My commandments and do those things that I have presented in my word, “to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.” LLM 99.1
We are to proclaim the truth to the world, for thus the great medical missionary has commanded us. “What ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the house-top; for there is nothing hid that shall not be made known.” “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and keep His commandments.” “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” LLM 99.2
The church of Christ is dependent on Him for her very existence. Only through Him can it gain continued life and strength. The members are to live constantly in the most intimate, vital relationship with the Saviour. They are to follow in His steps of self-denial and sacrifice. They are to go forth into the highways and byways of life to win souls to Him, using every possible means to make the truth appear in its true character, before the world. LLM 99.3
The truth is to be presented in various ways. Some in the higher walks of life will grasp it as it is presented in figures and parables. As men labor to unfold the truth with clearness, that conviction may come to their hearers, the Lord is present as He promised to be. As they go forth on their mission, teaching all things whatsoever Christ has commanded, the promise will be fulfilled, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Those who are honest in heart will see the importance of the truth for this time, and will take their place in the ranks of those who are keeping and teaching the commandments. LLM 99.4
All that can be done to make clear the mystery of godliness is to be done. The earthly has its place in illustrating the heavenly. All nature is a lessonbook, a teacher to every one who will learn. LLM 99.5
In His wonderful sermon on the mount, Christ used the lilies of the field in their natural loveliness to illustrate a great truth. His language is adapted to the opening intellect of child-life. The great Teacher brought his hearers in contact with nature, that they might listen to the voice which speaks in all created things; and as their hearts became tender and their minds receptive, He helped them to interpret the spiritual teaching of the scenes upon which their eyes rested. The parables, by means of which He loved to teach lessons of truth, show how open His spirit was to the influence of nature, and how He delighted to gather spiritual teaching from the surroundings of daily life. LLM 99.6
The birds of the air, the lilies of the field, the sower and the seed, the shepherd and the sheep,—with these Christ illustrated immortal truth. He drew illustrations from the facts of life, facts of experience familiar to the hearers,—the hid treasure, the pearl, the fishing net, the lost coin, the prodigal son, the house on the rock and on the sand. In His lessons there was something to interest every mind, to appeal to every heart. Thus the daily task, instead of being a mere round of toil, bereft of higher thoughts, was brightened and uplifted by constant reminders of the spiritual and the unseen... LLM 100.1
Our medical workers are to do all in their power to cure disease of the body and also disease of the mind. They are to watch and pray and work, bringing spiritual as well as physical advantages to those for whom they labor. The physician in one of our sanitariums who is a true servant of God has an intensely interesting work to do for every suffering human being with whom he is brought in contact. He is to lose no opportunity to point souls to Christ, the great Healer of body and mind. Every physician should be a skillful worker in Christ's lines. There is to be no lessening of the interest in spiritual things, else the power to fix the mind upon the great Physician will be diverted. While the needs of the body are to be strictly attended to, while all efforts are to be made to break the power of disease, the physician is never to forget that there is a soul to be labored for. LLM 100.2
God would draw minds from the conviction of logic to a conviction deeper, higher, purer, and more glorious, a conviction unperverted by human logic. Human logic has often nearly quenched the light which God would have shine forth in clear rays to convince minds that the God of nature is worthy of all praise and all glory, because He is the Creator of all things. LLM 100.3
Christ illustrated character-building by a house built on a rock, against which storm and tempest were powerless, and the house built on the sand, which was swept away. We are living in perilous times... LLM 100.4
Ellen G. White
*****
Glendale, Calif.,
June 23, 1905. B.-183 ’05
Dear Brother Butler,
Since leaving Washington, I have had much writing and speaking to do. I have spoken twice to the Los Angeles Church. The Lord gave me a message for the people before leaving San Diego. LLM 100.5
On our way to Los Angeles, we stopped off at Loma Linda, and visited the property that we have purchased for sanitarium work. We were taken through the different buildings. There is one large main building, which was built for sanitarium work and is well adapted for that purpose. Some changes will have to be made regarding bath and treatment facilities, but otherwise, everything is in readiness for us to begin work at once. LLM 100.6
Until this recent visit, I have never before seen such a place with my natural eyes, but four years ago such a place was presented before me as one of those that would come into our possession if we moved wisely. It is a wonderful place in which to begin work for Redlands and Riverside. We must take decided efforts to secure helpers who will do most faithful medical missionary work. If God will bless the treatments given and Christ will let His healing power be felt, a wonderful work will be accomplished. LLM 100.7
We shall need the very best physicians that can be secured, men and women who are faithful and true, and who will live in constant dependence upon the great Healer, men and women who will humble their hearts before God, and believe His word, men and women who will keep their eyes fixed on their leader and counselor, the Lord Jesus Christ. LLM 101.1
This work must be carried on aright. In the past, decided failures have been made in the institutions established for the care of the sick because so much business has been crowded in that the main object for which our sanitariums are established has been lost sight of. Great loss has thus been sustained. I am to urge upon our people that the proclamation of the principles of truth must be kept prominent, as the main line of work for which our sanitariums were instituted. LLM 101.2
The Lord calls for a solemn dedication to Him of the Sanitariums that shall be established. Our object in the establishment of these institutions is that the truth for this time may through them be proclaimed. In order that this may be done, they must be conducted on right lines. In them, business interests are not to be crowded in to take the place of spiritual interests. Every day devotional exercises are to be held. The work of God is in no case to be given a secondary place. Those who come to our sanitariums for treatment must see the word of God, which is the bread of life, exalted above all common, earthly considerations. A strong religious influence is to be exerted. It must be plainly shown that the glory of God and the uplifting of Christ are placed before all else. LLM 101.3
Ellen G. White
*****
San Jose, Calif.,
June 25, 1905. B.-161- ’05
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,
It is just daylight, and I am seated on my couch, beginning a letter to you. Our meeting here began a day or two ago, and I think there will be a good attendance of our people. On Sabbath the brethren and sisters at Mountain View turned out well. On Sabbath morning at half past ten I spoke to a large number in the big tent. LLM 101.4
I have an intense desire that this meeting shall be the very kind of meeting that the Lord desires us to have. I hope much for the revival of the Spirit of the Lord. LLM 101.5
I have consented to remain here till the close of the campmeeting,—one week from Monday. We shall then return to our home at St. Helena. LLM 102.1
There are many matters to be considered, and we will need the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I pray that a right impression may be made on the minds of those present at the meeting. LLM 102.2
The school question will receive careful attention, and we hope that matters may be so adjusted that future work in educational lines will be of a more advanced and satisfactory character. The Lord can do much through the teachers and students of our schools, if they will carry the work steadily forward and upward.... LLM 102.3
In regard to Sister Burden continuing to hold her place as bookkeeper, I think that if she would take the exercise that she should, the evils I have feared might be avoided. She should not confine herself too closely. She can be a real help in teaching others how to keep books. This is a line of education that is greatly needed, and in no case should it be neglected. But Sister Burden should be left entirely free to take up the work that she chooses. She can help with her experience in many ways. She can give valuable counsel in regard to many matters that will come up for discussion. LLM 102.4
I have a great desire that you may both be greatly blessed in your work in the new sanitarium. I hope that Brother Reaser will move understandingly in reference to the sanitariums already in operation and also in regard to the new sanitarium. I pray that the Lord may provide suitable people to connect with this institution, people who will be a genuine strength to the institution. LLM 102.5
Do not be discouraged if in any wise there is some cutting across of your plans, and if you are somewhat hindered. But I hope that we shall never again have to meet the hindrance that we have met in the past because of the way in which things have been conducted in some lines in Southern California. I have seen the hold-back principles followed, and I have seen the displeasure of the Lord because of this. If the same spirit is manifested, I shall not consent to keep silent as I have done. LLM 102.6
It is the most awful thing a man can do to dethrone God from his heart, refusing to take the Bible as his counselor. The man who does this debases whatever he has connection with. Christ does not abide in his heart. The law of God is to him an empty form. He may be supposed to be a Christian, but he debases whatever he touches. LLM 102.7
The gospel of Christ has been dishonored by being handled with sin-stained hands. Professed Christians act and speak in a way that is no honor to God. What men and women need now is thorough conversion. Every part of their intelligence should go out to meet Christ, and every part of their spiritual nature should yearn for more of Him. The Father seeketh such to worship Him,—those who worship Him in spirit and in truth and in the beauty of holiness. Let us separate from the contaminating influences of the world, and hold communion with the Saviour. Let us bring ourselves, in thought, word and deed, into conformity with the will of Christ. The Redeemer is seeking for those whose highest aim is to serve and glorify God. LLM 102.8
The message that the Lord has given me for the church in Los Angeles, is, Through faith and diligent service you are to become one with Christ. You are to eat His flesh and drink His blood, making His words a part of the daily life. The great Teacher will accept only the purest integrity, the most distinct representation of His words and His Spirit. Spiritual-mindedness must not be allowed to become a strange thing among us. We are to become more and more nearly conformed to Christ. The joy of the Lord, the praise of God, is to be on our lips and in our hearts. The character is to be transformed from the mist and cloud of uncertainty into the radiance of the light proceeding from heaven. The world is to be eclipsed by the contemplation of heavenly things. LLM 103.1
I ask the believers in Los Angeles to seek for a deeper, higher experience in the things of God. The Father seeketh such to worship Him. Arise, and brace your souls for action. Take an extensive survey of the work that is to be done. Read your Bibles with an increasing determination to have a larger experience in the things of God. Stand in the light of the Sun of Righteousness. LLM 103.2
What could induce the pure, sinless Son of God to tabernacle with men in a world filled with crime and strife and wickedness? He did this that He might better reach the lost and perishing. He suffered, being tempted Proportionate to the perfection of His holiness, was the strength of the temptation. Because of the depravity so revolting to His purity, His residence in the world was a perpetual sorrow. On every hand He saw men and women destroying themselves by yielding to perverted appetite and passion. LLM 103.3
Christ gave His life for the life of the world. He came to this earth in the likeness of man, to present before human beings an example of the character that all must form in order to be saved. He came to bring them power to overcome all the temptations of the enemy. LLM 103.4
O, that every soul might be awakened, and led to become a subject of the heavenly kingdom, surrendering all to Christ. The word of God gives us no encouragement that a sinner is pardoned in order that he may continue in sin. He is pardoned on condition that he receives Christ, confessing and repenting of his sin and becoming renewed. Many who pass under the name of Christian are not converted. Conversion means renovation. The sinner must enter into the renovating process for himself. He must come to Jesus. He must give up the wrong habits in which he has indulged. He must bring his unsubdued, unchristlike tendencies under the control of Christ, else he cannot be made a laborer together with God. Christ works, and the sinner works. The life of Christ becomes the life of the human agent. It is through the renewing power of the divine Spirit that man is fashioned into a perfect man in Christ. LLM 103.5
By the character that he is forming, every man is deciding his future destiny. In the books of heaven is made the record. There the character is photographed. There is seen a picture of the unclothed soul. LLM 104.1
The promise is given, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” It is the striving souls who receive the assistance of heaven and partake of its elements. It is by test and trial that the followers of Christ are fitted to dwell with Him in the heavenly courts. LLM 104.2
M.H.
Ellen G. White
*****
St. Helena, Calif.
July 10, 1905. B-197-'05
Dear Brother and Sister Burden,
On my way from San Jose to St. Helena, I met Dr. Stewart, from the Battle Creek Sanitarium, and had some conversation with him. He is one of Dr. Kellogg's lieutenants, and I hope that you will not be deceived by any flattering statements that may be made. I know that Dr. Kellogg is doing a work which is misleading. I am writing now to put you on guard. Dr. Kellogg is sending men all around to encourage those whom they visit to take sides. Do not give the least credence to their words or plans. LLM 107.1
We know not what tactics Satan will adopt in his efforts to gain the control. I have confidence that you will hold the fort at Loma Linda. The Lord will work for us if we will carry the work forward without binding it up with the work at Battle Creek. LLM 107.2
I wish I could see you and talk with you. Let nothing draw you to Battle Creek. It is presented to me that every effort is being made to draw to Battle Creek our young people and those who should be engaged in missionary work elsewhere. Men must be placed in charge of the educational branches of our work who are sound in the faith and as firm as a rock to principle. LLM 107.3
I want you to keep me posted about the money coming in with which to make the payments on the Loma Linda property. I am writing to different ones, asking them to help us at this time, and I think that we shall obtain means to make every payment. Please write to me often, and tell me what you are doing, and what the prospects are for obtaining means. LLM 107.4
We have been passing through some very hot weather. Yesterday I succumbed for a little while, but carefulness set me right again. LLM 107.5
W. C. White has been at Mountain View most of the time since we parted from you, working on “Ministry of Healing.” He will return to St. Helena tonight or tomorrow morning. LLM 107.6
If the Lord will, I shall attend the camp-meeting in Southern California. I am anxious that this meeting should be held in the best place. Would it not be well to have the principal camp-meeting at Redlands, securing the best help for the work there, and then hold a smaller meeting at San Diego? What is your mind regarding this? You are on the ground, and I put great confidence in your judgment. To me, it seems as if we ought to make Redlands the center for the coming meeting. LLM 107.7
Ellen G. White
*****
(From MS. 92’ 05—latter portion.)
July, 1905.