addressed to a dying saint.
These Egyptians, the temptations from our old nature, which, like
hounds upon our track, are constantly trying to overtake us, will all
be left behind as soon as the eyes are closed in death. "Fear not;
stand still; and see the salvation which the Lord will show to you
to-day: for the Egyptians whom you see to-day, you shall see them
again no more forever." Precious words would these be to one sick at
heart of sin and suffering, and longing to be freed from their power.
But these words may instruct us who are still healthy and strong, and
hold our places in the ranks to perform our part in the battle of
life.

This text has been criticised by some as being opposed to progress.
The command to "stand still" is the mark at which the criticism has
been aimed. But those who talk and think in this way fail to observe
that the Lord did not say this to the hosts of Israel until after they
had done all they could do, and gone as far as they could go. And when
they then became fearful, and in great danger of being seized by a
panic, and scattered to the four winds, he gave them the wise counsel
and glorious promise found in the text. Its great lesson to us is
implied rather than expressed.

FIRST. _We are to do what God commands, and go where he leads the
way._ This should be our aim at this our Annual Meeting. I sometimes
fear that we do not think and act with an eye to spreading the Gospel
as we should. It is not the way for us to stand still before our part
is done. In this and adjoining States, many, in various sections, have
never heard a genuinely true gospel sermon. Why could not these be
converted to a true faith and life as well as others? To be saved,
they need the same Gospel that we have. I am daily encouraged in my
travels by finding some in every section who have already received,
and others who are ready to receive our doctrines and practices where
they have been faithfully preached by us. And how can they help it!
The straight line of truth is easily followed. Truth, when rightly
presented, is not hard to see, because it lights up everything. It is
like the pillar of fire that illuminated the whole camp of Israel
throughout the darkest night. But error is never bright like truth. It
is like a cloud before the sun. And I am not sure but that the
apocalyptic vision of hail and fire mingled with blood was a symbol of
the perverted doctrines that are now being showered upon the people
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