Mr. Walter Potter wrote very little, most of his ministry being preserved through those who took addresses or notes of addresses in shorthand and through personal letters to saints in other places. Our late sister, Miss Grace Campbell of Iowa Falls, Iowa, was much used of the Lord in the taking of notes of general meetings, and in this way much of his ministry has been preserved for blessing to others.
He had the rare but God-given ability to detect the spiritual needs of those who came in contact with him, speaking a word in season, a word of exhortation, or a word of correction. All was done in a spirit of humility, but also with sternness on occasion.
My first memory of him was in our home (where he often visited) at about the age of four. He loved children and to me. was "Grandpa Potter." In later and more mature years, one learned to value the spiritual wisdom of a beloved brother in the Lord.
Mr. Potter was brought to know the Lord early in life, and as a young man worked at his bench as a cobbler. As he worked, he had his Bible with him, his constant companion. Thus he acquired an intimate knowledge of the Word of God and of Him who is its Subject and Object. His knowledge of the Word and his ability to apply it practically were early recognized by his brethren. Due to feeble health, which stayed with him for the rest of his life, he was persuaded to visit England, where he spent some little time in Mr. Darby's company. On returning to this country, he devoted his full time in the service of his Lord.
"Remember your leaders who have spoken to you the word of God; and considering the issue of their conversation, imitate their faith." (JND Trans.)
M. Wilbur Smith