MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Spiritual Insights from the Journals of Martha E. McMillan, 1867-1913 Selective Journal entries chosen by the transcribers of the McMillan Journals Editors: Lynn Brock Michelle Wood MAY 1, 2022
1 Martha’s Sabbath Lessons: Spiritual Insights from the Journals of Martha E. McMillan, 1867-1913. Selective journal entries chosen by the transcribers of the McMillan Journals Introduction Who was Martha McMillan? Martha Elizabeth Murdock, born January 26, 1844, in Clinton County, Ohio, was married to James McMillan on January 15, 1867. They lived in the McMillan homestead northeast of Cedarville on Route 42. The home is still there. James was a farmer well-known for the raising of sheep, hogs, and high-bred trotting horses as well as the usual field crops. From the day of her marriage until about a week before her death, Martha kept a journal of the daily events in the home and on the farm, as well as community activities and family experiences. The journals, covering 46 years, comprise over 12,000 handwritten pages and are now a part of the collections of the Cedarville University Archives. Martha McMillan, a mother of 10 children, had no special qualifications to write these journals; she was a farmer’s wife who went to church and sent her children to school in this community and to colleges beyond. But her eloquence, insights, and faith are clearly evident in her recollections. What are these lessons? Martha was a strongly-committed believer in Christ. She was serious about her faith, most evident in her devotion to the Lord’s day, Sunday and Martha’s sabbath, as well as to other times when her church was having services. Whenever the doors of Cedarville’s Reformed Presbyterian Church were open on the corner of Main and Church streets, her family was there as much as possible. On most Sundays, Martha recorded the basic content of the weekly sermon. For example, in the Journal entry below for May 7, 1893, Martha includes the date [1], the biblical text of the sermon [2], the subject [3], and her thoughts [4] on the meaning of the sermon from her perspective and its application to her life and those in her world and beyond. Martha’s Sunday experiences were rich! [1] 7” May. Sabb. Rather a pleasant day but a little cool. Helen sick and did not go to church. Paul at home with Frank – Clara, Clayton and Jason at Sabbath School and church – Mr Mc and I there – Mr Mortons text [2] “My soul cleaveth unto the dust. Quicken thou me according to thy word.” [3] Subject. Christian experience. [4] The Souls condition is described in these words “My soul cleaveth to the dust. Cleaveth to the perishing things of the world. We give the attention to time that eternity ought to have – to the body that the Soul should have – We are so encumbered with our cares that we
2 do not have time to look up. Too often we allow the world to creep into our hearts and steal our affections from God. We have such an inordinate love for the world is why our soul cleaveth to the dust and because we neglect God. How can we be revived and lifted up above the world. This by Gods holy Spirit. What we need is the presence and power of the Spirit of God – This work is done by the means God has appointed – This P.M. I heard Clayton and Jasons [illegible] chapter reading. This Eve Clara and Clayton and Helen at the Young folks meeting – and at the hall to hear W. B. Stoddard. Irvin came back this Eve. This is Donalds birthday. He is one year old and we have never seen him. How long it seems. Why should Martha’s lessons be read? Though Martha lived from over 100 to 150 years apart in time from ours, Martha’s experience converges with ours in a common perspective. There are no accidents with God. These convergences make the work of transcribing her journals REAL, not just an activity; Martha was REAL, and her experiences were REAL and they can speak profoundly to us today. So, Martha’s faith and comfort have become an encouragement and a challenge to transcribers over these years as we have gotten to know Martha better through her words. In the 46 years of Martha’s Journals, there are several thousand Sundays. However, a number of the transcribers of Martha’s journals have selected some of their favorite Sunday journal entries for this compilation we are calling Martha’s Sabbath Lessons. “Martha’s thoughts” in each lesson are reproduced as she wrote them. The Martha McMillan Journals, their transcriptions, and family history resources are available online at https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/mcmillan_journal_collection/ Editors: Lynn A. Brock, University Archivist and Special Collections Librarian, Cedarville University Michelle Wood, Professor of English, Cedarville University
3 Martha’s Sabbath Lessons: Spiritual insights from the journals of Martha E. McMillan, 1867-1913. Index to Bible References Biblical text Journal entry Genesis 35:1-2 March 19, 1892 Exodus 15: 24-26 August 14, 1887 Joshua 1:7 February 14, 1892 Joshua 24:15 February 21, 1892 Judges 8:4 July 17, 1887 Ruth 1:16 January 4, 1891 I Samuel 17:45 August 7, 1887 II Kings 3:16-17 March 5, 1893 II Kings 6:17 January 24, 1892 Psalm 23:6 February 5, 1899 Psalm 73:26 June 26, 1892 Psalm 74:22 September 20, 1891 Psalm 116:7-9 November 23, 1884 Matthew 11:28-29 November 15, 1891 Matthew 26:13 September 1, 1895 Mark 1:3 January 3, 1892 Mark 6:50 April 19, 1891 Luke 3:10 January 17, 1892 John 18:38 March 26, 1893 Acts 20:24 July 19, 1891 Romans 8:34 March 29, 1891 I Corinthians 10:31 January 31, 1892 II Corinthians 3:2 June 19, 1892 II Corinthians 12:9 July 29, 1888 Philippians 4:11 July 22, 1888 Colossians 2:10 March 30, 1891 Revelation 3:1-2 April 24, 1892
4 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Soul’s rest November 23, 1884 Scripture: Psalm 116:7-9 “Return unto thy rest O my soul: for the Lord has dealt bountifully with thee.” Martha’s Thoughts: “What is the souls rest? God is the souls rest—In his word-in his promise-and in his blessings is the rest of the soul. If our heart is right with God—no matter what the storm and tempest is without within we are at rest—and peace. We have peace with God in His character and in the perfection of His attributes. No matter what the straits in which we are placed we have an all powerful Saviour to look to and depend upon for deliverance and guidance. We have rest also in the power and love of God. As a father pitieth his children so our heavenly father pitieth his loving and humble children— Christ is the rest of the soul in the hour of perplexity and adversity. The holy spirit is the rest of the soul. The children of God find rest in the religion of Jesus. The soul finds rest in the graces of the spirit and in the doctrines of religion. Heaven is also the final rest of the soul—there is here no perfect rest—but blessed be God there remaineth a rest for the people of God. ‘—in that glorious land beyond the river of death—’ " Remember: “God is the souls rest—In his word-in his promise-and in his blessings is the rest of the soul.” Submitted by: Grace E. Kohler
5 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Promised victory July 17, 1887 Scripture: Judges 8:4 “And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them. And he said unto the men of Succoth, Give, I pray, loaves of bread unto the people that follow me; for they be faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The experience of Gideon is the experience of Christians in this world. We have a mixture of weakness & of strength [sic] of encouragements and discouragements. ‘Faint but yet pursuing’ is a graphic picture of life What makes us sometimes so languid and depressed amid the conflicts of life? It is enimes [sic] within—sin in the soul more than anything else. If these enimies ever subdued then we would be free & strong Enimies without weakens us, causes us to feel discouraged & depressed While we are in the line of our duty we meet with much to discourage us. We have made much progress and gained many victories yet the enimie is not yet subdued. The battle may be long and severe, yet our victory is certain. And then when the battle is all over we shall meet to celebrate the victory. If we would be victors we must enlist we must be in Christs army. We must press forward.” Remember: Though the battle of our life may be long and full of suffering, fight on for we will win the battle in the end if we are in Christ. Submitted by: Gerrit Van Dyne
6 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Workers God seeks August 7, 1887 Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:45 “Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.” Martha’s Thoughts: “We have here a striking picture of the great irrepressible conflict that is going on between light and darkness and right and wrong. Wherein lies the power of the church of the living God. It consists in the loyalty of its members. What we need to make us courageous and victorious and invincible is to be called and consecrated to the work of the Lord. What we need to overcome and triumph in the conflict is greater resting and trusting in the all powerful one. In proportion to our nearness to God will be our triumph and success The power and presence of God was in David’s sling and in Moses rod. The power of the church lies in the use of the simple means that God has prepared. Conformity to the world always cripples the church. The power of the church also lies in the direct personal effort of its members when God needs some important work to be done he does not go out among the idlers or loafers but he goes to those who are actively engaged and interested in their work. When he wanted a man to lead the children of Israel across or out of Egypt he chose Moses who was keeping his father in laws sheep. When he wanted a Prophet to take the place of Elijah he sent found him plowing with five yoke of Oxen. When Jesus called his disciples he found them busy fishing upon the coasts of Galilee Now if we are to be called to an important place let us be faithful let us be busy let us do good as we have opportunity. Faithfulness makes life grand in any department in this Christians field.” Remember: What we need to make us courageous and victorious and invincible is to be called and consecrated to the work of the Lord. Submitted by: Amy Plank
7 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Lord sweetens the bitter water of life August 14, 1887 Scripture: Exodus 15:24-26 “And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the Lord; and the Lord shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.” Martha’s Thoughts: “We have here a chapter of rich Christian experience. We can look into this text we see a picture of ourselves when passing through this world. The subject of this text is bitter water sweetened. How the Lord makes the bitter things in life agreeable and pleasant. The water that was so bitter that they could not drink it was made sweet nourishing. In life we meet with many bitter trials and sorrows. We must expect this – and we need not expect the sorrows and disappointments of life taken away – but we may expect the Lord to sweeten them. This is the teaching of Job There shall be light in the cloud. It is the teaching of the Bible that at the Evening time it shall be light. The Sweetest foretaste We have of heaven here are these experiences in the dark days of adversity – If it were not for bitter water, we would not know what sweet water is. If it were not for the trials and the dark days of life we would not know so well the value of religion and the sustaining grace of God. Gold is pure – tried by fire – Fiery trials make Christians golden Now what are some of the bitter waters of life? Well the losses and crosses of life are bitter water – some times we have bitterness in our souls – sometimes in our homes – sometimes our dwelling places are not the abode of peace and love. When we take these bitter waters to God he shows us a tree which when we cast into the waters they are made sweet. God and Christ and the blessed Spirit and the angels come down and we have heaven in our home. This tree which God shows us – is the love of God – the love of Jesus – the love and blessing of the holy Spirit. The introduction of Sin into the world were sweetened and called forth the song of redeeming love – The death of Christ was bitter water – a bitter night the darkest of sorrow of suffering of horror the world ever saw – So-it-was a night of triumph and of victory it called forth the glorious songs and anthems of the redeemed! In our own experience all along our journey we find that the bitter waters have been sweetened. And at the close of our journey the bitter water of death have been sweetened. In the Lords chemistry there is a solvent by which even the bitter waters of death have been made sweet. The Lord throws some of the healing leaves into the stream, When Moses came to the
8 bitter waters of death he found them sweetened. The Lord showed him a tree He gave him a glimpse of the thing in his beauty and the land that lieth afar of, When Stephen came to the waters of death he showed him a tree the gates of the celestial city was left ajar he saw Jesus – standing waiting to receive him Now in the trials and sorrows of life we would have comfort we must realize our condition we must cry to God and lay hold on that which he has prepared and promised us. Let us live near the throne –“ Remember: In life we meet with many bitter trials and sorrows. We must expect this – and we need not expect the sorrows and disappointments of life taken away – but we may expect the Lord to sweeten them. Submitted by: Amy Plank
9 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Contentment in Christ July 22, 1888 Scripture: Philippians 4:11 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Christianity adapts us to all the trials & vicissitudes and hardships and trials of life. Subject of the text Christian Contentment. What is Christian Contentment? Notice the important lesson learned: Christian Contentment means to be satisfied with the allotment of Gods providence. We learn this state of contentment in Christs School –– Paul kept so close to the master that he become like him. We can learn this spirit of contentment from the Bible. Let us never forget that our happiness does not depend upon external circumstances –– we see people miserable and happy under all circumstances. We should be content for all the positions of earth are transitory. Soon all the distinctions of earth will pass away –– Soon all will be on the same level. In that silent land there are no titles –– for the great and humble ones of earth meet on the same level. Out of Christ everything and everyone is a failure –– To be in the possession of the love and pardon of Jesus makes us rich both for time & eternity.” Remember: Contentment does not come from external or material circumstances but rather from our union with Christ. Submitted by: Sarah Swanson
10 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Sufficient grace, strength in weakness July 29, 1888 Scripture: II Corinthians 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Sometimes there is some trouble that annoys us and like Paul we pray that the trouble may be removed- but the answer comes my grace is sufficient for thee The subject of the text is a divine supply for every human want It means that we do not have the needed grace to do the work required- We are called to do hard work in the family- to train up our children for God and heaven not because we are able to do it of our selves but because God has promised us the help when we go forward that we need- if we only look to him we will receive fresh supplies day by day from his hand. We are to determine our duty not by our own strength but by the promise and power and grace of Almighty God. We should use what power we have and trust in God for the rest. What we need to bring our children and friends to Christ is not so much to pray for a change in their hearts but get close to Jesus ourselves and be made like him to be able to possess his glorious graces- to be filled with his love and spirit then we shall be a power in his hand to draw others to this loving Saviour.” Remember: God’s grace is sufficient for both the trial and the task. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
11 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Christian’s way January 4, 1891 Scripture: Ruth 1:16 “And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” Martha’s Thoughts: “If we would be happy here and be able to reach heaven after awhile. We must choose the Christians God for our God. We must also choose the Christians pathway and his society and home and his death. Upon starting out upon a New Year each one must say I will take Ruth’s God and my God and my father’s and mothers God to be my God. For there are trials to be born and difficulties to be met and to whence shall we look but to this God for help and protection. What a comfort and a blessing to posess [sic] a Christian home. Angels guards it—It is under the protecting care of the King of the universe—" Remember: If we are to walk the Christian’s way, we must follow God and cling to him. When trials come He will be our comfort and protection. Submitted by: Amy Plank
12 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Easter Sunday March 29, 1891 Scripture: Romans 8:34 “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is ever at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Martha’s Thoughts: “As we look up at Calvarys Cross—We see terrible justice we see this justice satisfied- And on the very top written in letters of gold we see divine love. ‘It is Christ that is risen’ As we stand by we see an open grave and a risen redeemer.” Remember: We see divine love at the cross of Christ. Submitted by: Grace E. Kohler
13 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Dependence on the power of the Savior March 30, 1891 (Monday) Scripture: Colossians 2:10 “And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Our redemption, justification, holiness peace comfort services, triumphs, spiritual advancements—our happiness in death resurrection and eternal glory is complete in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is a great work done for Christ and the most effectual way is for every man to build up in front of his own house. Do the work that is to be done in his own heart- in his own home. What a power words mighty spoken and duties discharged in the fear of God- All this can be blessed. As we go down from these ‘Communion Services—well may we ask ourselves who is able to meet these Christian obligations. Not one unless he is standing on the [illegible] – Ever leaning on Jesus and receiving help from him. The Devil is on the alert- It is in the little things we are the most apt to be overcome—when we are off our guard. It is the little foxes—the little sins we should set to watch.” Remember: “What a power words mighty spoken and duties discharged in the fear of God- All this can be blessed.” Submitted by: Grace E. Kohler
14 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Christians experience in the voyage of life April 19, 1891 Scripture: Mark 6:50 “For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: It is I; be not afraid.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The experience of most of us is like that of the disciples when crossing the Sea of Galilee but the question for us to decide is not wheather [sic] we will meet storms and hardships but to decide what is duty—to know what the Lord would have us to do. When the Lord calls us to do a certain work it is not safe for us to refuse or object. While the disciples experienced trouble and difficulty—Yet they had much to comfort them. Jesus drew near after their long watching and waiting and made himself known in the darkness of the night—and delivered them out of their troubles—So he does with his children to day.” Remember: Jesus delivers all His followers from trouble and draws near to comfort us. Submitted by: Grace E. Kohler
15 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Christian heroism July 19, 1891 Scripture: Acts 20:24 “But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Subject of text Is Christian heroism. Paul would not allow any difficulties to hinder him in his work. In the work and warfare of life we meet with discouragements – and we are often so depressed that in order to go forward we need the courage and heroism of Paul. We have a work to do for our selves for our family for our neighbors and if we expect to finish our course with joy we must work while it is to day – for the night will soon be here –” Remember: We must work with Christian courage and joy today even in the face of trials. Submitted by: Gerrit A. Van Dyne
16 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Cause of Christians September 20, 1891 Scripture: Psalm 74:22 “Arise, O God, plead thine own cause: Remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily.” Martha’s Thoughts “The subject is the Christians concern for the cause of God. What is the cause of God & Christianity? Morality and every careful calling is the cause of God. If our calling is honorable and right it is the cause of God and we can go to him with all assurance and ask him to plead and bless and advance his own cause –– Their [sic] is no way we can honor God so much as by exercising patience and Christian resignation and strong faith under sore affliction. One way God pleads his own cause is by raising up witnesses to work for him.” Remember: The cause of God involves moral living, obeying His commandments, and resting in His assurance. Submitted by: Sarah Swanson
17 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Rest in Jesus November 15, 1891 Scripture: Matthew 11:28-29 “Come unto me, all ye that labour 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.” Martha’s Thoughts: “There is a blessing in these words for us. Hard labour and heavy burdens seem to be the lot of mankind – In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread all the days of thy life. The cares of life makes a heavy load for very many people. There is unrest every where and in every heart – and there is not rest to be found only at the foot of Jesus – It is there we can lay our burdens down – and find rest –” Remember: The world and our lives are filled with unrest, but we can find rest in Jesus. Submitted by: Elizabeth Allen.
18 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Preparing the way January 3, 1892 Scripture: Mark 1:3 “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The Jews were watching and waiting for the Saviour to appear – John the baptist was sent before to get the world ready for his coming. Our work is similar to John the baptist our mission is to prepare the way for the coming of Christ. The subject of the text is Our years work- Our lifes work- The Lord appoints you and me to do this work. Christ will never come to any heart or home or community until the way is prepared- We are sent to tell all around us and everywhere that the Saviour is coming and to get ready. We need hearts full of love for sinners and for the Saviour to do this. We need to lay one hand on Jesus and the other on the [sinner] and beg the sinner to be reconciled. To do this we need to love the Saviour with a pure heart fervently- Let us get the way ready- for the Saviour wants to come into our homes to bless them There are selfishness and estrangement in our hearts and home- let us seek to have this removed that the Saviour may come. Christ will not come to any heart or home or community until the way is ready. What is the work that is to be done- We are to tell people of their sins- and to tell them to repent. When the Saviour is about to appear in any place- he sends a preacher before to tell them of their sins and to be ready for his coming. We are also to tell the world plainly about the coming of Christ- and about his life and death- and like when the baptist tell them to ‘Behold the lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.’ We are to prepare the way of the Lord by living Godly lives- Nothing can do so much to make people love us- as by cultivating and manifesting a spirit of kindness of sympathy and love. And this is what we are to do this year for Jesus. If the Saviour does not come this year to our heart and home and to the world around us it is because we have not done our duty- because we have not prepared the way and made ready for his coming.” Remember: Jesus is coming again! A Christian’s duty is to preach this message to sinners so that sinners can be reconciled to Christ and be ready for His return. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
19 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS A Christian’s responsibility January 17, 1892 Scripture: Luke 3:10 “And the people asked Him, saying, What shall we do then?” Martha’s Thoughts: “Our business is to preach the gospel to the vast multitudes in this wilderness world- Subject of the text is the nature of the true convert. What shall we do is the language of a humble penitent soul. The first step to the road to heaven is repentance and the first lesson a child has to learn is obedience and submission and when a child has learned that lesson well it is fitted for the great battle of life. And this is the first lesson that parents have [to] teach. When we ask what would thou have me to do means that we are ready for whatever God may require of us- If we are in earnest we feel our individual responsibility and a willingness to take Christ for our all- and will devote our lives to his services.” Remember: Christ has prepared the work He wants Christians to do. Christians have an individual responsibility to pursue with humility, obedience, and submission the work Christ asks us to do. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
20 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Lord, open our eyes January 24, 1892 Scripture: II Kings 6:17 “And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.” Martha’s Thoughts: “This text is a graphic description of our surroundings in this world. We are often in the midst of trials sorrows and disappointment- are in straits and know not what to do. But these words are ours ‘Fear not; for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.’ The subject of the text is our surroundings as Christians in this world- As Christians we are surrounded by two great armies. One army seeking our destruction the other waiting to save and redeem us – headed as it is by the great Captain of our Salvation. When external and internal foes are too strong for us- then God draws near and delivers us. In the cloudy and dark day God reveals Christ to us and strengthens us. In the dark and cloudy day he reveals to us the truth of the Bible. In the dark and cloudy day Christ comes between us and the storm and the clouds and the billows. Our most signal victory comes in answer to prayer and by using the means God has appointed- what we need is our eyes open and the eyes of the world open- And this can be done as Elisha did- by prayer. My personal experience is that we have come to God to remove some sin to give us some victory and we have been waiting and asking so long that we have become discouraged- our faith grows weak- for our hands drop down- but now I feel we need the assurance ‘Fear not for they that be with us, are more than they that be with them.’ O, for more faith for more power to look up and see the ‘mountain full of horses and chariots of fire.’ O for that victory that overcomes the world even our faith.” Remember: Christians are not alone in this world. God is with us, and we can trust Him in every circumstance we face because we know we do not face it alone. We also know that Christ— "the Captain of our Salvation”—has overcome the world. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
21 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS All for the glory of God January 31, 1892 Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:31 “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” Martha’s Thoughts: “This text teaches us that we are to carry our religion with us and be governed by it at our tables and wherever we are — The Subject is religion in our daily life There is nothing that is worth doing if not done to the glory of God and the interest of religion. The object for which we are to labor The Glory of God. If we fail in this no matter what else we do our life is a failure. If the leading object of our life should be the glory of God how often we would change our plans — and give up things in which we are now engaged. If this was the rule of our life — The Glory of God The world would soon be conquered for Christ — The secret of happiness is to be interested in helping others — If you feel cast down and discouraged go and do something for Some one quick. This rule extends to whatever you do or enjoyed — Whatever you can not commence and continue and finish to the glory of God is wrong — We ought to be concerned about the glory of God — at our tables — homes and at our firesides — both at home and away from home — One reason why we are not more successful in our Christian work is because we fail to work for his glory. We should be governed by this rule in our business and in the trials of life and in our prayers and devotions — young men and women starting out in the journey of life let the great question of life be in what way can I honor and glorify God most — let that determine your life’s work.” Remember: Every thought and action should serve the purpose of glorifying God and pointing others towards Him. Submitted by: Sarah Swanson
22 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Be strong and very courageous February 14, 1892 Scripture: Joshua 1:7 “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Subject of the text is the conditions of success in the warfare of life- What God directs us to do- Notice the important work we are to do- We are to lead Gods people out of the wilderness into the heavenly caravan. To do this the conditions of our success is courage- and strength- to have this we must exercise the Christian Graces- When God commands us to be strong he means for us to have all these graces in active exercise to be led by the Spirit- If we have this power we are able to do whatever work God appoints- To be strong we must use the power of prayer. The strength of the Christian lies in prayer- the strength of the home of the church and of the nation depends or lies in prayer and in godly living. We are to go forward in the name of the Lord- we are to lean on his arm and look to him for success. Faith is a power that lays hold on God and lifts us above the world and makes us strong in every Christian grace- We need not fear but go forward in our work for 'Christ strengthening us we can do all things’- We have a terrible struggle and fight against indwelling sin and against an evil heart and corrupt and evil desires and appetite and we often feel like we are driven back- but God says unto us be strong in the Lord and go forward- and call in the reserved forces- Look- and see that ‘the mountain is full of horses and chariots of fire’ God has placed great responsibilities in our keeping- we need Christs strength in this we need the spirit of obedience- for if we are successful we need do as the Lord directs- for if we follow his directions we can not but be successful-“ Remember: God gives Christians work to do, and in God’s strength and power, Christians can complete the work God asks us to do. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
23 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Decisions in life February 21, 1892 Scripture: Joshua 24:15 “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Subject decision in matters of life. God demands decision Select your master love own and serve him. Our holy living depends on our week day service Our Sabbaths and hours of devotion are mere fragments of time. The great question is not what pleases us best- but what pleases God best. We should decide at once because indecision makes person unhappy, and because it is very sinful and because it is dangerous and is fraught with imminent peril if presented in and if persisted nearly always end the wrong way. As long as we hesitate Satan and the power of darkness double their energies against us- and because death is on our track and if undecided when that hour comes our souls salvation is decided against us forever and ever.” Remember: Holy living demands active decisions to honor God, and inaction allows Satan’s power to interfere in decision making. Submitted by: Gerrit Van Dyne
24 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Reform, revival, and renewal April 24, 1892 Scripture: Revelation 3:1-2 “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” Martha’s Thoughts: “One way to reform your family is to reform yourself- One way to have a revival in your family is to go to God and have your heart renewed and be filled with the warmth and love and power of his holy Spirit then you will be ready to go out and teach others- will be ready for work and usefulness in your own family- unless you have this spirit and baptism of Godly holy Spirit you can have but little power but little success. Now remember that first of all to be able for the work and warfare of life in our own homes we need this outpouring of Gods holy Spirit as ministers and workers in the church we need it- And everywhere throughout Gods word he promises this new heart this Holy Spirit- Let us be in earnest in this matter- and the victory will be ours.” Remember: God will transform our lives and make us alive to do His work in the power of His Holy Spirit. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
25 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Letters that Christ sends into the world June 19, 1892 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3:2 “Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Subject The very important position Christian occupies. The great responsibility that rests upon us as followers of Christ. Ye are epistles of Christ — A growing working church testifies to the faithfulness of the ministers and teachers of the church — they are also letters of commendation for Christ as well. We are the letters that Christ sends into the world – The first thing the world does is to read these letters — is to read you and me — Who pens these letters – God[‘s] children writes them. It is the spirit that changes our lives. These epistles are known and read of all men. We are the worlds Bible — the world reads us to what Christ is — and what religion is. We are letters of Commendation of a lost world for Christ.” Remember: We are the letters that Christ sends into the world. We are the world’s Bible. Submitted by: Elizabeth Allen
26 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS The Christian’s refuge in the storm June 26, 1892 Scripture: Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.” Martha’s Thoughts: “This text is a picture of life in this world. There is a time in the history of us all when things either within or without seem very dark and discouraging The Christians refuge in the storm or in the dark day is the theme of the text. Some reasons for our sadness and for our dark days are the memories of the past — The experience of the present — and the dread of the future when we feel so utterly pressed down and driven back so little to cheer and so much to discourage us — let us look up and say ‘God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever’ And when we remember who God is and much he has done for us and has promised to do why should we be cast down. We ought to be hopeful and confident because of what we have enjoyed and do enjoy of Gods loving kindness and favor. There is a time not far distant when all the Sorrows and trials of life will have past away and we shall enjoy peace and Joy eternal. Soon it shall be said of each of us our flesh and our heart faileth — may we then be able to look up and say God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Remember: We ought to be hopeful and confident because of what we have enjoyed and do enjoy of God’s loving kindness and favor. Submitted by: Elizabeth Allen
27 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Ditch digging – or how the water of life may be secured March 5, 1893 Scripture: II Kings 3:16-17 “And he said, Thus saith the Lord, Make this valley full of ditches. For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall we see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye, and your cattle, and your beasts.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The subject of this text Ditch digging or how the water of life may be secured. How can a languishing heart be revived. In this text we have the mans side – or the nature of the work we have to do. Dig up the ditches – or open up the channels that the water of life may flow in. Our hearts need to be opened up – Open up the channels of your heart and the Lord will fill them. Open up the channels to receive the blessing and the blessing will come If you want a blessing prepare the way and the Lord will send it. The reason is that there is such a feeble flow of the grace and Spirit of God into our hearts is because our hearts are so full of the world of Selfishness and Sin that there is no room for the spirit to come in. The church is a valley which God directs us to make full of ditches. One channel which needs to be opened up is the channel of faith. Put Strong faith into a man and he is able to do anything. Another channel that is to be opened up is persevering work for Christ. Our Country is a valley which the Lord directs us to make full of ditches that his blessings may flow into upon our country. Lastly the encouragement. The valley shall be filled with water. When we obey God the blessing comes – We have hearts that are full of Sin – hard and filled with all evil – but when they are warmed & renewed by the power and Spirit of God then we can triumph over the world the flesh & the devil.” Remember: Open up the channels of your heart – faith, persevering work, obedience – and the Lord by His Spirit will fill them. Submitted by: Lynn A. Brock
28 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Drawing near to God March 19, 1893 Scripture: Genesis 35:1-2 “And God said unto Jacob. Arise go up to Bethel and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The subject of the text. Drawing near to God. What is our duty. Go up to Bethel or to the house of God. What was Bethel to Jacob. It was at Bethel where Jacob met with God and where he saw the ladder that reached from earth to heaven. It was at Bethel where he had such a glorious Communion Season with God – It was at Bethel where he vowed to give God the tenth. When God Says unto us go up to Bethel It means to go up and pay our vows. It is in the house of God where we find the Lord Jesus where we meet God and see heaven open. We are to make Bethel or the house of God our home. Love its sermons its people its principles – its service. Build there an alter [sic] and serve God. Sometimes we neglect the prayer meeting and the business meeting of the church and leave it to others to do. When we do this Christ is displeased and says arise and go to Bethel. The Saviour calls us to active Service. If we Serve Christ it will cost us something but it will cost us a great deal more if we do not serve him. The preparation for this duty. Put away the strange Gods. Be clean and change your garments. Put away the world – and your want of love and charity for others. Every fault or sin we indulge in is a strange God. We are to purify our hearts and lives. To be clean and change our garments is to have pure hearts and characters To change our garments is have a pure life and behavior Cease to do evil – learn to do well.” Remember: If we serve Christ it will cost us something, but it will cost us a great deal more if we do not serve him. Submitted by: Lynn A. Brock
29 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS What will you do with Jesus? March 26, 1893 Scripture: John 18:38: “Pilate saith unto him. What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Jesus before Pilate—Envy is a malignant passion and keeps no holidays There come a time in every life when we are cornered and must do something with Jesus. He will trouble you if you do not decide this matter wisely he will trouble you. What will you do with Jesus will you take him or will you turn him over to some one else. There is only one way to do with Jesus so that he will not trouble you and that is for you to take him into your heart and accept him as your Saviour. We notice that when Jesus was before Pilate that he did not look at Jesus but Jesus looked at Pilate. Let us never forget that Jesus is looking at us – let us look at him. No matter where we are let us never forget that we can not get away from Jesus – he is looking at us he follows us with his eye – let us seek his blessing and guidance. Christ comes to every life and gives them great opportunities of loving and accepting him & serving him.” Remember: “There is only one way to do with Jesus so that he will not trouble you and that is for you to take him into your heart and accept him as your Saviour.” Submitted by: Lynn A. Brock
30 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Bringing our best to Christ September 1, 1895 Scripture: Matthew 26:13 “Verily I say unto you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.” Martha’s Thoughts: “Subject of the text The pathway to everlasting honor and how we can build our own monument and perpetuate our memory through all generations. This woman was a Christian She sat at Jesus feet and expressed her love at great sacrifices. Piety and love for Jesus lay at the foundation of all true greatness. What an honor and joy for Jesus to say we have done a good work for him. The greatest thing we can do is to love Jesus and let the world know that we do love him. This woman was a practical Christian- The portraits of Gods faithful ones are in the gallery of heaven Their names are in everlasting remembrance. This woman brought the best she had to Christ. We are to bring the best of our time of our talents the best that we have to Christ- If there is an hour of the day that we are wider awake than another we are to bring that to Christ. We are to bring the best of our life– the best of our selves to Christ. Let us bring our youth and vigor and strong arms to Christ and not wait until we have not anything to bring but old age and weakness. We should bring the best of our faculties and our powers and affection to Him. Let us bring every power of Soul and body to Him. He desires our best love- our best words our gladdest song- our warmest heart throbs- our highest aspirations we should bring to him. Finally we are to bring our children and consecrate them to Christ. If you have a boy that is very wayward and seems bent on ruin- bring that boy to Christ ask him to subdue him to himself- to gather him in his arms- May we trust him more fully- and lean entirely on his everlasting love.” Remember: Faithful Christians can bring their best to Christ and trust Him to use their offerings for His glory. Submitted by: Michelle Wood
31 MARTHA’S SABBATH LESSONS Eternal perspective February 5, 1899 Scripture: Psalm 23:6 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Martha’s Thoughts: “The first part of this Psalm tells us what God does for us in life. Then what he does for us in death—then what he does for us in eternity. The heavenly messengers sent out who they are— goodness and mercy. He provides goodness to supply every want and mercy to pardon and save us. Sometimes as Christians we do things that dishonors God and is hurtful to ourselves and to others. God sends a missionary—or a Bible or a sermon or a letter and brings us back. Sometimes when we look back over our past lives we see much wrong doings so many mistakes we feel discouraged and feel that there is not any hope for us, but God in His goodness and mercy comes behind to gather up our shortcomings and casts them forever behind his back. Life portrayed in this Psalm is full of change—as life really is in this world. This life is the vestibule or the robing room for eternity. Christ provides a home for us where we shall dwell forever. What an attraction and magic there is in the word home. The love of home brings back the wander [sic] from the ends of the earth. Home is where our loved one are—hence heaven is our home where shall meet our loved ones and will be with them forever more. The thought is we shall have as much freedom in the presence of God in heaven as we do in the presence of our earthly father here. If the paradise of the past is lost—the paradise of the future is awaiting us. Let us not think too much of our separations but more of our reunion. As long as day light lingers we only see the landscape & the scenery of earth, but when darkness settles over the earth what a revelation—the whole great universe is opened up before us. As long as we live in the world we only see those of our friends upon this side—but when death settles upon us how different we see heaven—& Christ and our dear departed friends and the angels.” Remember: “If the paradise of the past is lost—the paradise of the future is awaiting us.” Submitted by: Grace E. Kohler
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