18
Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
I tried to shield myself from His gaze, feeling unable to endure
His searching eyes; but He drew near with a smile, and laying His
hand upon my head, said, “Fear not.” The sound of His sweet voice
thrilled my heart with a happiness it had never before experienced.
I was too joyful to utter a word, but, overcome with emotion, sank
prostrate at His feet. While I was lying helpless there, scenes of beauty
and glory passed before me, and I seemed to have reached the safety
and peace of heaven. At length my strength returned, and I arose. The
loving eyes of Jesus were still upon me, and His smile filled my soul
with gladness. His presence awoke in me a holy reverence and an
inexpressible love.
My guide now opened the door, and we both passed out. He bade
me take up again all the things I had left without. This done, he handed
me a green cord coiled up closely. This he directed me to place next
my heart, and when I wished to see Jesus, take it from my bosom, and
stretch it to the utmost. He cautioned me not to let it remain coiled
for any length of time, lest it should become knotted and difficult to
straighten. I placed the cord near my heart, and joyfully descended
the narrow stairs, praising the Lord, and telling all whom I met where
they could find Jesus.
[28]
This dream gave me hope. The green cord represented faith to my
mind, and the beauty and simplicity of trusting in God began to dawn
upon my soul.
Friendly Sympathy And Counsel
I now confided all my sorrows and perplexities to my mother. She
tenderly sympathized with and encouraged me, advising me to go for
counsel to Elder Stockman, who then preached the advent doctrine in
Portland. I had great confidence in him, for he was a devoted servant
of Christ. Upon hearing my story, he placed his hand affectionately
upon my head, saying with tears in his eyes: “Ellen, you are only a
child. Yours is a most singular experience for one of your tender age.
Jesus must be preparing you for some special work.”
He then told me that even if I were a person of mature years and
thus harassed by doubt and despair, he would tell me that he knew
there was hope for me through the love of Jesus. The very agony of
mind I had suffered was positive evidence that the Spirit of the Lord