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diff --git a/old/68976-0.txt b/old/68976-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a702797..0000000 --- a/old/68976-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,20286 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The works of the Reverend George -Whitefield, M.A, Vol. 1 (of 6), by George Whitefield - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A, Vol. 1 (of 6) - -Author: George Whitefield - -Release Date: September 12, 2022 [eBook #68976] - -Language: English - -Produced by: Brian Wilson, Heather Clark and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was - produced from images generously made available by The - Internet Archive) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WORKS OF THE REVEREND -GEORGE WHITEFIELD, M.A, VOL. 1 (OF 6) *** - - - - - - The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. - - - - - ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ - │ │ - │ Transcriber’s Notes │ - │ │ - │ │ - │ Punctuation has been standardized. │ - │ │ - │ The original text may show quotations within quotations, set │ - │ off by similar quote marks. The inner quotations have been │ - │ changed to alternate quote marks for improved readability. │ - │ │ - │ Characters in small caps have been replaced by all caps. │ - │ │ - │ Non-printable characteristics have been given the following │ - │ Italic text: --> _text_ │ - │ │ - │ This book was written in a period when many words had │ - │ not become standardized in their spelling. Words may have │ - │ multiple spelling variations or inconsistent hyphenation in │ - │ the text. These have been left unchanged unless indicated │ - │ with a Transcriber’s Note. │ - │ │ - │ Footnotes are identified in the text with a superscript │ - │ number and are shown immediately below the paragraph in which │ - │ they appear. │ - │ │ - │ Transcriber’s Notes are used when making corrections to the │ - │ text or to provide additional information for the modern │ - │ reader. These notes are identified by ♦♠♥♣ symbols in the │ - │ text and are shown immediately below the paragraph in which │ - │ they appear. │ - └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ - - - - - Illustration: The Rev. George Whitefield A.M. - late Chaplain to the Rᵗ Honᵇˡᵉ, The - Countess of Huntingdon. - Born Dec. 16. 1714 O. S. Died Sep. 30. 1770. - N. Hone pinxᵗ. I. Taylor Sculpᵗ. - - - THE - WORKS - OF THE REVEREND - GEORGE WHITEFIELD, M.A. - - Late of PEMBROKE-COLLEGE, OXFORD, - And Chaplain to the Rt. Hon. the Countess of HUNTINGDON. - - CONTAINING - - All his SERMONS and TRACTS - Which have been already published: - - WITH - - A SELECT COLLECTION of LETTERS, - Written to his most intimate Friends, and Persons of Distinction, - in _England_, _Scotland_, _Ireland_, and _America_, from the Year - 1734, to 1770, including the whole Period of his Ministry. - - ALSO - - Some other PIECES on IMPORTANT SUBJECTS, - never before printed; prepared by Himself for the Press. - - To which is prefixed, - - An ACCOUNT of his LIFE, - Compiled from his Original PAPERS and LETTERS. - - - VOL. I. - - - LONDON: - - Printed for EDWARD and CHARLES DILLY, in the Poultry; - and Messrs. KINCAID and BELL, at Edinburgh. - - MDCCLXXI. - - - Entered at STATIONERS-HALL, - agreeable to Act of Parliament. - - - - - ADVERTISEMENT. - - -THIS complete Edition of the late Rev. Mr. WHITEFIELD’s Works (printed -under the Direction of his Executors) it is presumed, will be highly -acceptable to all his Friends, as the just and proper Monument of -his Memory and Merit; and both pleasing and useful to the Public in -general, but especially to those who desire to cherish and promote the -Spirit of primitive Christianity. - -To the Sermons and Tracts formerly published, and which are now -ranged in their proper Order, are also added other Pieces, on the -most Important Subjects: together with a valuable Collection of -Letters, selected and prepared by himself for Publication; in which is -displayed, that native Spirit and Simplicity, so eminently conspicuous -in his Life and Conversation. His Friends, and even his Enemies -(should there be any Such) will here openly behold his unwearied -Diligence, undaunted Firmness, noble Disinterestedness, and exceeding -Usefulness in the Work of the Ministry; also, his remarkable Fidelity -in Friendship, exemplary Piety, and fervent Zeal for the Prosperity of -pure and undefiled Religion. - -The Letters and Works can stand in no need of any Recommendation: -Connected with the account of his Life, (now drawn from original -Papers) they exhibit a plain and undisguised View of the worthy -Author, in all Parts of his public Service, as well as in his private -Retirements, and inward Trials; faithfully shewing the Whole of that -_living Temple_, which was sacred to GOD, and happily instructing -Mankind in the Ways of Godliness and eternal Life. - - - - - LETTERS. - - - LETTER I. - - _To Mr. G. H._ - - _Oxon, July 18, 1734._ - _Dear Sir_, - -HAVING heard the melancholy news of your brother’s death, I could -not help sending you a line, to let you know how much I am concerned. -Indeed, I cannot say, I am so much grieved on his account, as for -that sorrow, which the loss of so valuable a youth must necessarily -occasion to all his relations. No! I rather envy him his blessed -condition. He, unquestionably is divinely blessed, whilst we are -still left behind to wrestle with unruly passions, and by a continued -looking unto JESUS and running in our christian race, to press forward -to that high prize, of which he, _dear Youth_, is now in full fruition. -These are my true sentiments about his death; I leave you to judge -then, whether I had need be concerned on his account; and surely was -it to be put to your choice, whether so religious a young man should -live or die, no one could be so cruel, as to wish to detain him from -his wished-for glory. Be not then too much concerned at his death, but -let us rather learn that important lesson, which his whole life taught -us: “That there is nothing comparable to an early piety.” I thought -to have spent many agreeable hours with him in christian and edifying -conversation, when I came to _Gloucester_; but he is gone to more -agreeable company, and long before now has joined the heavenly choir. - -I shall only add, that as your brother imitated our blessed SAVIOUR -in his life, so I pray GOD, he may resemble him in his death, and -be a means, like his beloved Redeemer, of reconciling all former -animosities, which is the hearty wish of, dear Sir, - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER II. - - _To Mr. G. H._ - - _Bristol, Sept. 10, 1734._ - _Dear Sir_, - -THIS morning I wrote to you in haste, expecting Mr. _I._ would soon -be going; but to my great satisfaction, he came hither this night, -and soon afterwards, your very much wished-for letter was brought to -hand; which (after ten thousand thanks for so many repeated favours) -I shall now beg leave to answer. You tell me “Mr. _P._ likes _N._” -GOD be praised! That he hath recommended something to my perusal. I’ll -read it, GOD willing, with care, at my return. “That he wants to know -my quality, state, condition, circumstances, &c.” Alas! that anyone -should enquire after such a wretch as I am. However, since he hath -been so kind, pray tell him, that as for my quality, I was a poor, -mean drawer; but by the distinguishing grace of GOD, am now intended -for the ministry. As for my estate, that I am a servitor; and as to -my condition and circumstances, I have not of my own any where to -lay my head. But my friends, by GOD’s providence, minister daily to -me, and in return for such unmerited, unspeakable blessings, I trust -the same good Being will give me grace to dedicate myself without -reserve to his service. To “spend and be spent” for the welfare of -my fellow-creatures, endeavouring to promote the gospel of his Son -as much as lies in my poor power. But “observe his humility,” says -Mr. _H._ Aye, catch an old Christian without profound humility, if you -can. Believe me, _Sir_, it is nothing but this flesh of ours, those -cursed seeds of the proud apostate, which lie lurking in us, that make -us to think ourselves worthy of the very air we breathe. When our eyes -are opened by the influences of divine grace, we then shall begin to -think of ourselves as we ought to think, even, that GOD is all, and -we are less than nothing. Well, you may cry, O happy temper, could I -but learn of CHRIST to be meek and lowly in heart, I should certainly -find rest to my soul. May GOD, for his dear SON’s sake, give it to -you, to me, and to all our dear friends! “Some like, some dislike the -extract,” you say. I did not do it, to please man, but GOD. “Mr. _W._ -is too much engaged in temporals.” Is he? Oh dear Sir, pray that when -I enter the ministry, I may be wholly engaged in spirituals: But “Mrs. -_H._ has been ill, and is now recovered.” GOD be praised for both! Our -Saviour, _Sir_, learnt obedience by the things which he suffered, so -must we. Pain, if patiently endured, and sanctified to us, is a great -purifier of our corrupted nature. It will teach us excellent lessons. -I hope Mr. _H._ has been enabled to learn some of them. So much in -answer to your kind letter. You say “it was too long.” Believe me, -_Sir_, it was much too short; but a line is more than I deserve. -However, I have made out in mine, what was wanting in yours. _My -Mother’s_ journey to _Gloucester_, I fear, is spoiled by the weather. -GOD’s blessed will be done! I hope to be with you about next _Tuesday_ -sevennight. “I am missed,” you say; and you may well miss such a -troublesome guest. Well, GOD will reward you richly, I trust. Never -despair of _my brother_; when GOD acts upon the soul, he makes quick -work of it. Be pleased to tell Mr. _M._ that his remissness hath -occasioned me many a sigh, and his return from his relapse, matter of -abundant thanks to GOD in his behalf. Oh let us young, unexperienced -soldiers, be always upon our guard; the very moment we desert our post, -the enemy rushes in; and if he can but divert our eyes from looking -heavenward, he will soon so blind us, that we shall not look towards -it at all. A great deal may be learned from a little fall. But I must -not detain you any longer, than to assure you how much I am, _Dear -Sir_, - - Your and Mrs. _H._’s sincere friend and servant, - in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER III. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Oxon, Sept. 17, 1734._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Had the favour of your letter last _Friday_, which brought me the -agreeable news of your and Mrs. _H._’s welfare, together with the -much-desired account of your approving the scheme, inclosed in my -last. Indeed, I did not doubt of its meeting with a candid reception, -from all those persons to whom it was recommended. Their known -concern for religion, giving me sufficient assurance, that nothing -can be unacceptable to them, which any way tended to promote their -improvement in the divine life. It must be confessed, indeed, as you -very justly observed, that we must make a great progress in religion, -and be inured by frequent prayer and meditation, to the extatic -contemplation of heavenly objects, before we can arrive at true -heavenly-mindedness; and, perhaps, after all our endeavours, whilst -our souls are immersed in these fleshly tabernacles, we shall make -but very small advances in so delightful and glorious an undertaking. -But believe me, _Sir_, you cannot imagine, how vastly serviceable the -constant use of all the means of religion will be, in acquiring this -blessed habit of mind. Such, as an early rising in the morning, public -and private prayer, a due temperance in all things, and frequent -meditation on the infinite love and purity of that unparalleled -pattern of all perfection, our dear Redeemer. As for your mentioning, -_Sir_, the degeneracy of the age, as the least objection against our -making further advances in any religious improvement, I cannot by any -means admit of it. The scriptures (as I take it) are to be the only -rules of action. And the examples of our blessed LORD and his apostles, -the grand patterns whereby we are to form the conduct of our lives. It -is true, indeed, that instances of an exalted piety are rarely to be -met with in the present age, and one would think, if we were to take -an estimate of our religion, from the lives of most of its professors, -that christianity was nothing but a dead letter. But then it is not -our religion, but ourselves that are to be blamed all this while. -Would we live as the primitive christians did, we might no doubt -have the same assistance vouchsafed us, as they had. GOD’s grace is -never restrained, and though we should not arrive at those heights of -heavenly-mindedness, as some of the primitive christians were eminent -for, yet, methinks we should imitate them as far as we can, and rely -on the divine goodness for grants of such a supply of grace, as he, -in his good pleasure, shall judge most convenient for us. Be pleased -to send for Mr. _Law’s Christian Perfection_ for me against my coming -into the country, if printed in a small edition. I am, with due -respects to self, spouse, and all other friends, - - Your’s sincerely, - _G. W._ - - - LETTER IV. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, Dec. 4, 1734._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Am heartily glad to hear that the _country parson_ has had so good -an effect upon you, and that you are resolved to set in earnest, about -working out your salvation: Be sure quench not these first motions; -but go on vigorously and manfully, without the least regard to what -the world may say; if you can once break with that, you are safe. The -_prayers_, I hope to send you next week. Only let me give you this -caution, not to depend on any advice or book, that is given you; but -solely on the grace of GOD attending it. The book which I have sent to -my brother, and would recommend to you and all my _Gloucester_ friends, -will soon convince you how dangerous it is to be a lukewarm christian, -and that there is nothing to be done without breaking from the world, -denying ourselves daily, taking up our cross, and following JESUS -CHRIST. These things may seem a little terrible at first, but believe -me, they are nothing but suggestions of our enemy to deter us from -setting out; and if you can credit me, mortification itself, when once -practised, is the greatest pleasure in the world. But hold, I shall -transgress the time prescribed me, therefore give me only leave to -add my hearty prayer for your successful progress in religion, and to -subscribe myself in great haste, _Dear Sir_, - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER V. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, Feb. 20, 1735._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Believe you think me a strange sort of a person, for not being so -good as my word in coming down this winter; and what is worse, in not -letting you have a line to acquaint you of my reasons for it. And, -indeed, I am not as yet determined; providence having ordered (I hope) -that this seeming unkindness shall, in the end, prove very serviceable -on all sides. However, though I have been thus hindred, yet, I think -you heard from me last, and am really surprized to find you should, -now so long since, have desired that _collection of prayers_, and -be wholly unconcerned about them ever after. Indeed, they will be of -no service to you, unless you grant me this one postulatum: “That we -must renounce ourselves.” What the meaning of this phrase may be, the -preface to the prayers will best inform you. I did not doubt of its -meeting with but a cold reception, it being (at first view) so very -contrary to flesh and blood. For, perhaps, you may think, that this -renouncing of ourselves, must necessarily lead us (as it certainly -does) to acts of self-denial and mortification; and, that we probably -may be saved without them. And lest you should after all imagine, -(which I trust you will not) that true religion does consist in any -thing, besides an entire renewal of our natures into the image of -GOD; I have sent you a book entitled, _The Life of GOD in the Soul of -Man_, written by a young, but an eminent christian, which will inform -you, what true religion is, and by what means you may attain it. As -likewise, how wretchedly most people err in their sentiments about it, -who suppose it to be nothing else (as he tells us page 3d) but a mere -model of outward performances; without ever considering, that all our -corrupt passions must be subdued, and a complex habit of virtues, -such as meekness, lowliness, faith, hope, and the love of GOD and of -man, be implanted in their room, before we can have the least title -to enter into the kingdom of GOD. Our divine master having expressly -told us, that “unless we renounce ourselves, and take up our cross -daily, we cannot be his disciples.” And again, “unless we have the -spirit of CHRIST, we are none of his.” You will scarce have time, I -imagine, before Mr. _H._ leaves _Gloucester_, to revise, what I have -recommended to your perusal. However, be pleased to let me hear from -you by him, together with an account of your free sentiments about -this matter. I trust (by GOD’s grace) we shall, at last, rightly -understand one another’s meaning. I should be glad to hear too, -whether you keep morning prayers, and how often you receive the holy -communion, there being nothing, which so much be-dwarfs us in religion, -and hinders our progress towards the heavenly Canaan, as starving our -souls by keeping away from the heavenly banquet. I have nothing more -to add at present on this subject, till you favour me with a line, -which, I hope, you will not fail doing by Mr. _H._ who will willingly -bring it to, Dear Sir, - - Your sincere friend and very humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER VI. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, March 6, 1735._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Had the favour of your letter by Mr. _H._ and, as desired, I have -made enquiry about the post-masters and clerks of Merton. As to the -former, I hear, that the five senior fellows have each a power to -elect one in his turn, and that there is now a vacancy, but one ready -on the spot to supply it, and no likelihood of there being another -this long while. The latter, are solely in the power of the warden, -and though all the places are at present filled up, yet, there will -be a vacancy next term, so that, perhaps, by a seasonable application, -your brother may get a friend in. Thus much for business. As for the -other particular, specified in the latter part of your last; I find by -what I can gather from your own and my brother’s expressions, as well -as from Mr. _H._’s discourse, that my late letters have met with but -a cold reception; and that you seem desirous of hearing no more of so -seemingly ungrateful a subject, as submitting our wills to the will -of GOD; which, indeed, is all that is implied in that phrase (which -our enemy would represent as so formidable to us) of _renouncing -ourselves_. Alas, Sir! what is there that appears so monstrously -terrible in a doctrine that is, (or at least ought to be) the constant -subject of our prayers, whenever we put up that petition of our -LORD’s: “_Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven._” The import -of which seems to be this. 1st. That we do every thing that GOD wills, -and nothing but what he willeth, 2dly, That we do every thing he -wills, _only_ in the manner he willeth. 3dly, That we do those things -he willeth, only _because_ he willeth. This is all, Sir, I have been -endeavouring to inculcate in my late letters; and though it seems -as clear as the light, upon an impartial and considerate view, yet, -our grand impostor (whose very corruption is having a will distinct -from, and therefore contrary to GOD’s) would fain set it out in the -most hideous colours, as though we were “Setters forth of strange -doctrines;” or proposing some higher degrees of perfection, than every -ordinary christian is obliged to aspire after; whereas, in truth, it -is nothing but the simple and evident language of the gospel. It must -be confessed, that through the corruption of our depraved nature, and -that power, which self-will has, since the Fall, usurped in the soul, -we must necessarily break through a great many obstacles. But, dear -Sir, be not dismayed, the difficulty lies only in our first setting -out. Be but vigorous at the first onset, and never fear a conquest. -The renewal of our natures is a work of great importance. It is not -to be done in a day. We have not only a new house to build up, but -an old one to pull down. But then, methinks, this would be an odd -way of reasoning, “Because a thing requires some pains, I therefore -will never set about it.” No, Sir, rather up and be doing. Exert -your utmost efforts at your first setting out, and take my word, your -strength as well as resolution will increase daily. The means also -which are necessary to be used in order to attain this end, our cursed -adversary the devil would represent to us in the most hideous forms -imaginable. But believe me, Sir, the difficulty here too, only lies -in our first breaking from ourselves, and that there is really more -pleasure in these formidable duties of self-denial and mortification, -than in the highest indulgences of the greatest epicure upon earth. -Give me leave, dear Sir, only to remind you of one particular, which, -if duly observed, will vastly facilitate your future endeavours. Let -the scriptures, not the world, be your rule of action. By those you -are to form your practice here, and to be judged hereafter. Upon this -account, for the future, I should be glad, if you would communicate -what passes between you and me, to none but my brother and your spouse. -And if you have any, the least scruple, be pleased to send me word of -it by a letter in an open, friendly manner; and, by GOD’s blessing, -all things will be yet set right; only be fervent in prayer. As for -what the Rev. Mr. _Hoar_ has been pleased to say, either to you or -Mr. _H._ it is not my business (out of deference, as he is so much my -superior, as to the dignity of his office, his age, and his learning) -to make any reply. I shall only add, what I am sure I can prove, -“That the gospel tells us that there is but one thing needful. That we -cannot sit down content with just such a degree of goodness, and claim -just such a proportionable degree of glory;” but that “we are to love -the LORD with all our souls, strength, &c.” and that “he who endureth -to the end, (and he only) shall be saved.” There is a little treatise -lately come out, which I have made bold to send to Mr. _Hoar_, where -we may be fully convinced by argument deducible merely from reason, -“that GOD is our sole end,” and that barely upon a principle of -prudence, (supposing we could be happy without it) we ought to -press forward, in order to attain the greatest degrees of happiness -hereafter. Whether this letter, Sir, may prove as offensive as the -former, is not my business to enquire. GOD’s will be done in all -things. He, and he alone can (and indeed will, if we are desirous of -it ourselves) work this conviction in our minds. Give me leave just -to add, that I thought it my duty to answer these few objections, that -have been raised against the difficulty of conforming our wills to -the will of GOD, by shewing that the greatest struggle lies only at -our first beginning, and that it is no more than what is indispensably -necessary for our salvation. As for the means to be employed for the -attainment of this end, I shall be wholly silent: Being sensible, -that if you are once fully convinced of the greatness of it, you -will be necessarily carried on to the use of such means as GOD hath -constituted for that purpose. I hope my writing after this manner, Sir, -will not be esteemed a piece of self-conceit, or be an instrument of -unloosing our former band of friendship, which was once designed to be -bound the faster, by tying it with a religious knot. But whether this -proves to be the event, or not, of my telling my friends the truth, I -wholly leave to GOD’s Providence. Be pleased however to favour me with -a line in return, and give me leave to subscribe myself, Dear Sir, - - Your sincere friend and most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER VII. - - _To the Same._ - - _Bristol, June 12, 1735._ - _My dear Friend_, - -LAST night about eight o’clock, your good spouse and myself came safe -to our journey’s end, and met with a very kind reception from all -parties. After you left us, the ladies grew more serious, and at last -by the assistance of _Mr. Norris_, our discourse ran into a proper -channel. My brother does not propose sailing this fortnight; but tho’ -he stays longer than he proposed, yet I hope to be at _Gloucester_ -on Wednesday, for methinks my heart is still there, tho’ my body be -at thirty miles distance. On whose account, I leave you to guess. I -cannot help reflecting on Sunday. Did not those sighs, think you, Sir, -proceed from some unusual meditations on the importance of religion? -Were they not some infant strugglings after the new birth? Surely they -were. And I trust ere long, after a few strugglings with corrupted -nature, the Holy Ghost will replenish your heart with comfort and -peace. Proper retirement and solitude are no bars; but rather great -helps to a religious life. We find, our Saviour was led into a -wilderness, before he entered on his publick ministry, and so must -we too, if we ever intend to tread in his steps. As for my brother, -I trust the cares of the world, the desire of riches, &c. will not -always choak the good seed. However, I hope you my dear friend will -not defer so important a thing. But, why do I say hope, when I am -assured you will not. Methinks, I would willingly undergo the pangs, -so you might enjoy the pleasures of the new birth. But this must not -be. All we can do is to sympathize with and pray for each other, which -I hope will not be wanting on either side, as such a close friendship -has commenced between dear _Mr. H._ and - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER VIII. - - _To the Same._ - - _Bristol, Sept. 5, 1735._ - _Dear Sir_, - -HOW welcome is a line from a faithful friend? even as welcome as a -shower of rain in a droughty season. But here’s the misfortune, the -very kindnesses of friends may be cruelty: Commendations, or even the -hinting at them, are poison to a mind addicted to pride. A nail never -sinks deeper than when dipt in oil. A friend’s words may be softer -than butter, and notwithstanding, be very swords. Pray for me, dear -Sir, and heal the wound you have made. To GOD alone give glory. To -sinners nothing belongs, but shame and confusion. So much in answer to -one part of your too kind letter. _Mrs. Powell_ you say continues very -ill. No wonder, Sir; desperate diseases must have desperate remedies. -Satan has desired to sift her as wheat; but CHRIST will pray for her, -I trust, and then her faith will not fail. Oxford friends have not -been wanting in letters, and I find I must not stay much longer here. -For some are going to travel, some are dead, and one is married, so -that we must join and warm one another, as well as we can in their -absence. I hope to feast with you at _Crypt_ next Sunday. Amazing, -that ever sinners should sit with their Saviour! To what dignity has -CHRIST exalted human nature. And how did he do it? Why, by humbling -himself. Let us go and do likewise. Give me leave, with due respects -to all friends, to subscribe myself, - - Your and spouses very humble servant and sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - -P. S. If Mr. Pauncefort’s petitions run after this manner for me, I -should be thankful: “That GOD would finish the good work he has begun -in me, that I may never seek nor be fond of worldly preferment; but -employ every mite of those talents it shall please GOD to entrust -me with, to his glory and the church’s good, and likewise, that the -endeavours of my friends to revive true religion in the world, may -meet with proper success.” - - - LETTER IX. - - _To the Same._ - - _Bristol, Sept. 18, 1735._ - _Dear Sir_, - -AS you did not expect to hear from me till _Mr. B――――d_ came, I hope -you have not as yet accused me of being too dilatory in writing. Now -I have taken the freedom, what can be more proper for me to begin -with, than to return ten thousand thanks for those innumerable favours -conferred on me at your house? I trust they are all registered in the -court of heaven, and will in due time meet with a suitable return -from my all-gracious and good benefactor. Next to this, I imagine you -will enquire, how I like Bristol? As for the place itself, that, like -all others, is indifferent to me, who have here no continuing city, -but seek one to come; and as for the inhabitants, tho’ they teach me -nothing else, yet I may learn this one important lesson, that unless -I am very vigilant, the children of this world, will be much wiser in -their generation, than I, who, by the grace of GOD, hope am a child -of light. Alas! was I half so solicitous to attain heavenly, as they -are worldly riches, I should be rich indeed. That you all may be rich -towards GOD, is the hearty prayer of, dear Sir, Your very unworthy, - - but sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER X. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, March 13, 1736._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Have now but just time to acquaint you, that GOD gave me a pleasant -and safe journey, and what was still a greater blessing, a joyful -meeting with my zealous, hearty, sincere friends. The alderman bore -my expences, and was very agreeable company; so that on all accounts I -have great reason to thank my good and gracious GOD, and to beg others -to join with me in that important, that delightful duty. You will -not forget retaining your old custom of reading and singing. It’s bad -to leave off a good custom, and the best way to make a progress in -religion, is to persist in, and to improve on the means we enjoy. I -suppose honest James by this time is with you. My hearty love to him, -and tell him, it would do his heart good to see what a number of true -altogether christians here are of his rank. I hope he will let none -of them outstrip him: He must watch and pray against self-indulgence, -sloth, &c. especially if he goes to a place where plenty of all things -abound. My due respects and hearty thanks to _Mrs. H._ and all friends. -I hope none of their kindnesses will ever be forgotten by - - Your sincere friend in great haste, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XI. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, April 2, 1736._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -WHAT a comfort is it for christian friends to relate to each other the -loving-kindness of the LORD? O let his praises be ever in our mouths, -that we may be telling of his salvation from day to day. O _dear Sir_, -I heartily join with you in the delightful duty of thanksgiving. I -hope that you will have every day more and more experimental proofs of -that intercourse which is carried on between GOD in heaven, and saints -on earth. - -I must now inform you, that the person, who under GOD has given me the -annuity, is _Sir John Philips_ of London. The occasion of it was as -follows. Upon my coming up, two or three of our trusty friends were -called from us, and being solicitous to keep up our society here, -the gentleman to whom you sent the book, wrote to _Sir John Philips_ -and proposed me (alas! how unfit) as a proper person to stay here and -encourage our friends in fighting the good fight of faith. Accordingly -he immediately offered me an annuity of twenty pounds. To shew his -disinterestedness, he has promised me _that_, whether I continue -here or not; and if I resolve to stay at _Oxon_, he’ll give me thirty -pounds a year. If that will not do, I may have more; so that you see, -my dear friend, what a critical point it is. All that we have to do is -to pray, and watch Providence between this and _June_, when I propose, -GOD willing, to enter into orders, and then no doubt my call will be -clear. What makes me to think that this is a call from GOD is, that -it will be convenient for taking my degree, and improving me in my -studies. Whether it be or no, GOD only knows; Father, therefore into -thy hands I commend my spirit, for thou hast redeemed me, O LORD thou -GOD of truth. I approve greatly of your reading HENRY. GOD works by -him here greatly, and may the LORD prosper it in your hands. Good dear -Sir, never leave off watching, reading, praying, striving, till you -experimentally find CHRIST JESUS formed within you. In a particular -manner, my dear friend, watch against all temptations to sloth. When -you receive the sacrament, earnestly endeavour to be inwardly bettered -by it the week following. Live every day as holily as you can. Be -frequent in self-examination morning and evening. Pray earnestly -from your heart. Wrestle with GOD, beg him to hasten the new birth. -Moreover be careful, diligent in your calling, labour hard with your -own hands, that you may have to give to him that needeth. And labour -not so much for the meat that perisheth, as to neglect pursuing that -which endureth to eternal life. O _Mr. H._ my bowels are enlarged -towards you. Believe me to be your sincere, tho’ unworthy friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XII. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, April 22, 1736._ - _Dear Mr. H._, - -NOW tell me the truth, have not you called me ungrateful? If you have -not, it is more than I deserve. I have nothing to plead but business, -as an excuse for not answering your last kind letter. Well, forgive me -this once, and if I offend so again, then call me ungrateful indeed. -You order’d me to make no acknowledgments for kindnesses received. -You’ll suffer me to ask another favour, if not to return any more -thanks. Be so kind then, dear Sir, to desire your brother to write -to me as soon as possible. My good friend, _Sir John Philips_, has -promised me thirty pounds a year, if I’ll continue at Oxford, and yet -I am in doubt, whether that annuity, and the being appointed to serve -the prison here, will be a sufficient title for orders, therefore I -beg both his advice and prayers. This is all I think that concerns -outward affairs. But this solemn season naturally leads me to say a -word or two on a more important subject, “the death and passion of -our blessed Lord and Saviour.” If I mistake not, you commemorate -it to-morrow at _Crypt_. And blessed be GOD, I do at Christ Church. -And oh that we may commemorate it as we ought; that we may fix our -thoughts intensely on that great examplar and all atoning blood; that -we may grow in love with his meekness and patience, and endeavour -daily to be conformed to his most blessed image. Surely we cannot -grow angry at trifles, when the Son of GOD endured such bitter usage, -without the least murmur or complaint. Surely, we cannot repine at any -dispensations of Providence tho’ ever so severe, when we consider, how -it pleased GOD to bruise our Saviour and lay upon him the iniquities -of us all. Whatever befalls us, is but the due reward of our crimes; -but this Redeemer had done nothing amiss: he was bruised for our -iniquities. I could run through every part of our LORD’s sufferings, -and shew how ♦necessary it is that we should sympathize with him -in every particular. But as it now grows late, and I want a little -time to prepare for to-morrow’s solemnity, you’ll excuse me if I now -only paraphrase a little on the prayer of the thief on the cross. -LORD remember us and pray for us; LORD remember us and rule us; LORD -remember us and prepare a place for us. LORD remember us in the hour -of death, and in the day of judgment. My due respects to all friends, -and am sincerely - - Yours, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘necesary’ replaced with ‘necessary’ - - - LETTER XIII. - - _To Mr. S._ - - _Gloucester, June 20, 1736._ - _My dear Friend_, - -THIS is a day much to be remember’d, O my soul! for about noon, I was -solemnly admitted by good _Bishop Benson_, before many witnesses, into -holy orders, and was, blessed be GOD, kept composed both before and -after imposition of hands. I endeavoured to behave with unaffected -devotion; but not suitable enough to the greatness of the office -I was to undertake. At the same time, I trust, I answered to every -question from the bottom of my heart, and heartily prayed that GOD -might say Amen. I hope the good of souls will be my only principle of -action. Let come what will, life or death, depth or heighth, I shall -henceforwards live like one who this day, in the presence of men and -angels, took the holy sacrament, upon the profession of being inwardly -moved by the Holy Ghost to take upon me that ministration in the -church. This I began with reading prayers to the prisoners in the -county ♦gaol. Whether I myself shall ever have the honour of stiling -myself a prisoner of the LORD, I know not; but indeed, my dear friend, -I can call heaven and earth to witness, that when the Bishop laid -his hand upon me, I gave myself up to be a martyr for him, who hung -upon the cross for me. Known unto him are all future events and -contingences; I have thrown myself blindfold, and I trust without -reserve, into his almighty hands; only I would have you observe, that -till you hear of my dying for, or in my work, you will not be apprized -of all the preferment that is expected by - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘goal’ replaced with ‘gaol’ - - - LETTER XIV. - - _To the Same._ - - _Gloucester, June 23, 1736._ - _Dear Friend_, - -NEVER a poor creature set up with so small a stock. When the -good Bishop, who ordained me on Sunday, gave out last year in his -visitation charge, that he would ordain none under full three and -twenty, my heart leap’d for joy, for then I thought my friends would -not only be disappointed in their hope of having me enter into orders -so soon; but that I should also have time (as was my intention) to -make at least a hundred sermons, with which to begin my ministry; but -this is so far from being the case, that I have not a single one by -me, except that which I made for a small christian society, and which -I sent to a neighbouring clergyman, to convince him how unfit I was -to take upon me the important work of preaching. He kept it for a -fortnight, and then sent it back with a guinea for the loan of it; -telling me he had divided it into two, and had preached it morning -and evening to his congregation. With this sermon I intend to begin, -GOD willing, next Sunday, not doubting, but that he, who increased a -little lad’s loaves and fishes for the feeding of a great multitude, -will from time to time, in the proper use of appointed means, supply -me with spiritual food for whatever congregation he in his all-wise -Providence shall be pleased to call me to. Help, help me, my dear -friend, with your warmest addresses to the throne of grace, that I -may not only find mercy, but grace to help in time of need. At present -this is the language of my heart, - - _A guilty weak and helpless worm into thy arms I fall, - Be thou my strength, my righteousness, my JESUS, and my all._ - -Oh cease not, for I must again repeat it, cease not to pray for - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XV. - - _Gloucester, June 28, 1736._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -ACCORDING to my promise I am now seated to write you a farewell letter. -For providence seems to demand my presence at _Oxford_ immediately, -and therefore I propose being there, GOD willing, on _Monday_ night. -But first let me return dear Mrs. _H._ my heartiest thanks for all -past kindnesses, and assure her, that my incessant prayers shall -never be wanting, that GOD may not forget her labour of love, in that -she has so plentifully administered to me his unworthy servant, and -yet does minister. To-morrow I am to preach at _Crypt_, but believe -I shall displease some, being determined to speak against their -assemblies. But I must tell them the truth, or otherwise I shall not -be a faithful minister of CHRIST. Had providence so ordered, I should -have been glad to have given you the cup of blessing; but since that -favour is denied to me, I am resigned. However, I hope I shall not be -unmindful of you, when I come near your place, nor be wanting in my -prayers, that GOD would mercifully supply the want of outward means to -you, by the operation of his Holy Spirit. I suppose you are, by this -time, pretty well reconciled to _Worcester_, and that providence has -shewn you that we may serve GOD acceptably in any place. Yes, Madam, -let but our hearts be upright towards him, and by faith united to our -dear LORD JESUS, we shall find that wherever we are, he will be with -us, and we shall be with him. So far I had written on _Saturday_ night; -but being detained here in expectation of seeing my brother _James_, -(who has not as yet been so good as his word) I believe I can now -acquaint you that I must set out on _Wednesday_ morning. I preached -yesterday at _Crypt_, and was mercifully supported and assisted, -for which great blessing, I hope you will return hearty thanks in my -behalf. I trust Miss _James_ continues her former earnest desires to -be renewed in the spirit of her mind; for nothing will do but that. -Indeed we may flatter ourselves, that we may go to heaven without -undergoing the pangs of the new birth; but we shall certainly find -ourselves desperately mistaken in the end. For till we are changed, -till we are made meet for, we cannot in the nature of the thing be -partakers of the heavenly inheritance with the saints in light. Let -us therefore never cease praying and striving, till we find this -blessed change wrought in us, and thereby we ourselves brought off -from relying on any or all outward ordinances for salvation. Our good -bishop _Benson_ was pleased to give me another present of five guineas, -a great supply for one who has not a guinea in the world. May the -great Bishop of souls amply reward both him and you, for all favours -conferred on - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XVI. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Gloucester, June 30, 1736._ - _My Dear Friend_, - -GLORY! glory! glory! be ascribed to an almighty triune GOD.――Last -_Sunday_ in the afternoon, I preached my first sermon in the church -of St. _Mary De Crypt_, where I was baptized, and also first received -the sacrament of the LORD’s supper. Curiosity, as you may easily guess, -drew a large congregation together upon the occasion. The sight at -first a little awed me; but I was comforted with a heart-felt sense -of the divine presence, and soon found the unspeakable advantage of -having been accustomed to public speaking when a boy at school, and of -exhorting and teaching the prisoners and poor people at their private -houses, whilst at the university. By these means I was kept from being -daunted over much. As I proceeded, I perceived the fire kindled, till -at last, though so young, and amidst a croud of those, who knew me -in my infant childish days, I trust, I was enabled to speak with some -degree of gospel authority. Some few mocked, but most for the present -seemed struck; and I have since heard, that a complaint had been made -to the bishop, that I drove fifteen mad the first sermon. The worthy -prelate, as I am informed, wished that the madness might not be -forgotten before next _Sunday_. Before then, I hope, my sermon upon -_He that is in CHRIST, is a new creature_, will be compleated. Blessed -be GOD, I now find freedom in writing. Glorious JESUS, - - _Unloose my stamm’ring tongue to tell - Thy love immense, unsearchable._ - -Being thus engaged, I must hasten to subscribe myself, my dear Sir, - - Your’s, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XVII. - - _To Mrs. H._ - - _Oxon, July 7, 1736._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -WHAT shall I say in defence of my seemingly ungrateful silence? Why, I -hope, your kindness will accept of the reasons I gave in Mrs. _Well_’s -letter, as a sufficient excuse for it, nothing but those, I assure -you, being the cause of it. Well then, presuming on your kind pardon, -give me leave, (after all acknowledgments of gratitude for kindnesses -received) to bid you once more welcome to _Gloucester_, and to wish -you and Mr. _H._ with all my soul, the greatest comfort, that either -this or the other world can afford you. It’s true, indeed, we must not -expect much comfort here, except what results from a good conviction -that we are in a safe state, by being born again of the Holy Ghost. -This, will afford us inexpressible satisfaction, even on this side the -grave. It will give us ease in pain, because we know, if we bear it -patiently, it will end in glory. This, will make us meek and gentle -under crosses and disappointments, because we know we are taught to -expect them, and that our blessed Master has gone before us in them. -In short, it will make us easy in every station, because we have a -general promise, that all things shall work for good to them that -love GOD. But supposing we were to have no pleasure on this side of -Heaven, yet the thoughts of being happy, and that too for all eternity -hereafter, methinks should teach us to bear up under every calamity -here, not only with submission, but a holy joy. Good GOD! the very -idea of what we are to be in glory, transports me while I am writing. -There, there, Mrs. _H._ we shall see the blessed JESUS, whom our souls -have so eagerly thirsted after in this life, surrounded with glory, -and attended with myriads of his holy angels, who will rejoice at our -safe arrival to their happy mansions, and with repeated echoes welcome -us to heaven. There, there, we shall not only see, but live with him -and enjoy him too, not for a day, a month, a year, an age, but to all -eternity. And who can tell the pleasure, comfort, peace, joy, delight, -and transport, a glorified saint will feel in the possession of his -wished-for, longed-for, ever adorable, ever gracious, blessed, beloved, -triune GOD, and that for ever? Surely the happiness will be so great, -that eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither can the heart of man -conceive the thousandth part thereof. And yet, great as it is, I -not only wish, but have good hope through CHRIST, that not only you -and Mr. _H._ but all my christian friends, and even I myself through -grace, shall one day be partakers of it. The way and means we know. -“If any one, says CHRIST, will come after me (to glory) let him -renounce himself.” _i. e._ make his own will no principle of action, -be no self-pleaser, “and take up his cross” patiently (whether of -sickness or outward circumstances, &c.) “and then let him follow -me,” follow me in a way of duty here, and he shall follow me to glory -hereafter. May we all be such followers of the blessed JESUS! And why -should we despair of becoming such? What is there in CHRIST’s doctrine -or example but that we may all, through the assistance of the Holy -Spirit, imitate him in? Suppose it does oblige us to be a little -stricter than our neighbours? Suppose it does forbid us spending too -much time in the seemingly-innocent entertainments of the age? Suppose -it does command us to be constant and frequent in prayer, in watchings, -fastings, and other acts of mortification? Suppose it does bid us not -to indulge our unruly passions; but to learn of CHRIST to be meek, -patient, and lowly? Suppose it does compel us to redeem our time, to -fill up every day with proper duty and devotion? Yet, what in all this, -that is terrible? Has not such a behaviour a natural tendency to make -us calm, easy, peaceful, happy? And then, why should we refuse so easy -a yoke, so light a burden? I am sure the little (alas! too, too little) -time I have drawn in it, I have found it not galling but healing, and -the longer I bear it, the easier and pleasanter it is. Let us then, -Dear Mrs. _H._ chearfully take it upon us, and then - - _No mortal living of us all can miss - A permanent, a sure substantial bliss._ - - Your sincere, though very unworthy friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XVIII. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Oxon, Oct. 14, 1736._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -I Was agreeably detained, as you was pleased to term it, last -_Tuesday_, in reading your kind letter, and had I not been assisted -by the grace of GOD to receive every thing with an equal, undisturbed -mind, perhaps the contents of it might have given me some small -uneasiness. But religion quite changes the nature of man, and makes -us to receive all the dispensations of providence with resignation -and thankfulness. Of this, dearest Sir, I hope you have had an -experimental proof, in bearing up with courage and resolution under -those acute pains the Almighty was pleased to visit you with last -_Sunday_, and with which, perhaps, his infinite wisdom and goodness -may continue to visit you longer. My dear friend (if I mistake not) -used to say, he was afraid GOD did not love him, because he did not -chasten him. Behold then, now the hand of the LORD is upon you, not -so much to punish, as to purify your soul. Not in anger but in love. -Pray therefore in your easy intervals, that you may know, wherefore -the LORD contendeth with you, and that you may not come cankered out -of the furnace of affliction. Offer up every groan, every sigh, in -the name of your dying, risen Redeemer, and doubt not, but they will -be as prevalent as set times of prayer. Our being enabled to pray -when sickness comes on us, doubtless, is to teach us the necessity -of praying always, when we are in health. But, dear Mr. _H._ wants no -such lessons, or excitements, I believe, to prayer. Methinks I could -bear some of your pain for you, if that would give you comfort. But -as it is impossible, O let me never cease most earnestly to beseech my -heavenly Father, that he would sanctify this his fatherly correction -to you, and that the sense of your weakness may add strength to your -faith, and seriousness to your repentance. Poor Mr. _Pauncefoot_, I -find, is visited in a far more grievous manner. Dear good man, surely -the time of his dissolution (I should say of his coronation) draweth -near. See, dear Mr. _H._ through what tribulations we must enter into -glory. Be pleased to give my hearty love and thanks to him for his -last kind letter. Beg him not to cease praying for me, unworthy as I -am. And, I hope, I shall not be wanting in returning his kindness in -the same manner. But alas, I have nothing to depend on, but the merits -of a crucified Redeemer to have my poor petitions answered. But does -dear Mrs. _H._ complain of deadness and coldness in devotion? Alas -poor woman! let her not be disheartened. This is a complaint, which -all the children of GOD have made. And we must take a great deal of -pains with our hearts, must pray often and long, before we shall be -able to pray well. And the only way I can think of, to shame ourselves -out of deadness in prayer, is to censure and condemn, to humble and -bewail ourselves for it every time we go upon our knees, at least -every time we solemnly retire to converse with GOD. But why does dear -Mrs. _H._ so much as think of omitting but once the receiving of the -holy sacrament? Or if satan does put such thoughts in her head, why -does not she repel them with the utmost abhorrence? Alas! should the -devil gain his point here, would not the ridiculing world say, Mrs. -_H._ began to build, but had not wherewith to finish. I have seen too -many fatal instances of the inexpressible danger and sad consequences -of leaving off any one means of grace, not to encourage Mrs. _H._ -stedfastly to persevere in the good way she has begun; and would -exhort her, in the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST, to labour daily to -mortify and subdue her corruptions, not wilfully to indulge herself in -any ill habit, custom, or temper, and then assure herself, one time or -another, CHRIST will be made known unto her in breaking of bread. But -what shall I say, dear Sir, about Mr. _W._ &c. &c.? Alas! I find, they -are all in the gall of bitterness, in the very bondage of iniquity, -and all I can do, is to pity and pray for them. I find more and more, -that where true religion is wanting, there is confusion and every -evil work. But why is my honoured mother so solicitous about a few -paultry things, that will quickly perish? Why will she not come and -see her youngest son, who will endeavour to be a _Joseph_ to her, -before she dies? What makes my dear friend and his kind wife, give me -another invitation to _Gloucester_? Alas! have I not wearied and been -expensive enough to you already? I hope to send you, in a short time, -two guineas towards paying for Mr. _Henry_’s Exposition. I wish I -could spare more, but time will bring all things to pass. You see what -a large letter I have written to you to make amends for the many short -ones, I have sent lately. Though I believe you may say of mine, the -quite contrary to what I say of yours; the shorter the better. My due -respects to all friends, and believe me to be, in the utmost sincerity, -Dearest Sir, - - Your and Mrs. _H._’s affectionate friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XIX. - - _To the Same._ - - _Oxon, Nov. 5, 1736._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -HEREWITH I have sent you seven pounds to pay for Mr. _Henry_’s -Commentary. Dear Esqr. _Thorold_ lately made me a present of ten -guineas, so that now (for ever blessed be the divine goodness) I -can send you more than I thought for. In time, I hope to pay the -apothecary’s bill. If I forget your favours, I shall also forget my -GOD. Say nothing of your receiving this money, only give thanks, give -hearty thanks to our good and gracious GOD for his infinite, unmerited -mercy to me, the vilest of the sons of men. Oh, dear Sir, may such -instances of free grace strengthen your faith, and make you put your -sole trust and confidence in the LORD your GOD. For he hath said, -_I will never leave thee nor forsake thee_. Have not you experienced -his loving kindness and mercy, in supporting you under your sickness? -Methinks I feel you have. May you experience it more and more! Did -not CHRIST give you the meeting last _Sunday_? I hope he did, nay I am -sure he did, if our hearts were duly prepared by faith and repentance -to receive him; but without an entire resignation of ourselves to GOD, -and a thorough renunciation of all worldly and corrupt affections, -all GOD’s ordinances will profit nothing. Your reverend brother’s kind -letter I hope to answer soon, and to send him also a small parcel of -books. The good LORD sanctify them to his own glory, and the good of -souls. I find dear Mr. _Pauncefoot_ is still afflicted, but bid him be -of good cheer. In his latter end he may yet greatly increase. When we -are weak, then are we strong. There is hope concerning his legacy. Let -us in the mean while continue instant in prayer in behalf of this our -dear and worthy friend. Good man! salute him kindly in my name. Beg -his prayers for my unworthy self, and tell him I will write as soon as -possible. The gospel flourishes at _Oxon_. Our society here, blessed -be GOD, goes on well. I received the papers and thank you. How does -dear Mrs. _H._? The divine blessing rest on you both. My prayer night -and day is, that you may be saved. Salute all friends by name. From -Dearest Sir, - - Your unworthy friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XX. - - _To the Same._ - - _Bristol, Feb. 10, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -WHAT shall I say? I cannot be with you this week. Methinks, it would -be almost sinful to leave _Bristol_ at this critical juncture, there -being now a prospect of making a very considerable collection for the -poor _Americans_. The whole city seems to be alarmed. Churches are as -full week days, as they use to be on _Sundays_, and on _Sundays_ so -full, that many, very many are obliged to go away, because they cannot -come in. Oh pray, dear Mr. _H._ that GOD would always keep me humble, -and fully convinced that I am nothing without him, and that all the -good which is done upon earth, GOD doth it himself. Quakers, baptists, -presbyterians, &c. all come to hear the word preached. Sanctify it, -holy Father, to thy own glory and thy people’s good! I hope to be with -you without fail on _Tuesday_ morning. What letters you have, pray -send to, Dear Sir, - - Your unworthy friend, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXI. - - _To the Same._ - - _Stonehouse, April 26, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -BE pleased to send the _Poor Country Curate_, and _Flavel’s Husbandry -Spiritualized_. I know not what to do for want of a clock in the -house. How shall I know, how my precious time passes away? You’ll mind -your promise to come. Here are lovely, solitary, and pleasant walks -to commune with your own heart, and search out your spirit. Has Mr. -_Pauncefoot_ wrote to me? My dear friend _Stratford_’s death affects -me still. Methinks I long to be above, employed as he is. But alas, -I am not ripe for glory; if I was, my heavenly Father would gather -me into his garner. Farewell, Dear Sir; remember I am alone, and pray -accordingly for - - Your sincere, though weak friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXII. - - _To the same._ - - _Stonehouse, May 4, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -WHY does not Mr. _H._ let me hear from or see him? Surely no evil -has befallen either him or his family in their way to eternity. Why -then tarry their horses? Why are they so long in coming to visit the -country, which now looks like a second paradise, and which, to me, -seems the pleasantest place I ever was in, through all my life? Surely -I can never be thankful enough for being sent hither; people flock to -hear the word of GOD from the neighbouring villages, as well as our -own. They gladly receive me into their houses, and I have no let or -hindrance to my ministerial business; and what is still better, GOD -has opened my heart, and enabled me to finish a sermon on “Remember -thy Creator, &c.”――If you will come on _Sunday_ you may hear it -perhaps.――Your sister-in-law talks of being here again on _Friday_; -but I believe it will be more agreeable, if you chuse another -opportunity, that we may have our own conversation. I hope that dear -Mrs. _H._ took nothing ill, that was in my last. I meant it well, and -wrapt up the pill in as much sugar as I could. My hearty love to her -and Miss _J._ Poor Mr. _M._ and Mr. _W._ will set out to morrow, I -suppose. The LORD prosper them and be with them wherever they go, and -make them good soldiers of JESUS CHRIST, and finally bring them and us -to his heavenly kingdom! So wishes, so prays, - - Your’s affectionately, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXIII. - - _To the Same._ - - _Stonehouse, May 11, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Thank you for your last, and bless GOD that you got home safe: -your observations on the weather were pertinent and spiritual. Honest -_James_ and I, were out in the midst of the lightning, and never were -more delighted in our lives. May we be as well pleased, when the Son -of GOD cometh to judgment. What! no news from your brother? Well, -_Stonehouse_ people and I agree better and better. I believe we shall -part weeping. Had I time I would now write to Miss _J._ but I must -away among my flock, and so deny myself that pleasure till another -opportunity is given to, Dear Sir, - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXIV. - - _To the Same._ - - _Bristol, May 24, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -BY the particular good providence of GOD, I got safe to _Bristol_ -yesterday by ten in the morning, and was received (unworthy as I am) -with the utmost civility and kindness. I have learnt from hence the -benefit of setting out on our journey to eternity betimes, and what a -pleasing reflection it will be to look back, though not to depend, on -one’s past life, and find a great deal of work done in a little time. -The people here are exceeding kindly affected towards me; and, I hope, -I have seen the effects of my doctrine in the reformation of some -of their lives. Remember me always in your prayers. Accept my hearty -thanks for all favours, and believe me to be, - - Ever your’s, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXV. - - _To Mrs. H._ - - _Oxon, July 14, 1737._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -IF you remember, I promised you a long and particular letter when -I was at _Gloucester_, and nothing hinders but I may now perform -it. Permit me then first, to begin this, as I would all my letters, -with thanks to you and kind Mr. _H._ for your inexpressible favours -conferred on the most unworthy of my master’s servants; and, withall, -to assure you, how incessantly I pray, that the GOD of all grace and -mercy, for the sake of his dear Son JESUS CHRIST, would reward you in -spirituals, for what you have done to me in temporals, and feed your -soul with his heavenly graces, as plentifully as you have fed my body -with nourishing food. But as, in all probability, this will be the -last letter I shall write to dear Mrs. _H._ before I sail, what can -I fill the remainder with better, than by exhorting you, to lay aside -every weight, particularly the sin that does most easily beset you, -and so run with patience the race set before you. I say, the sin -that most easily besets; for unless we lay the ax to the root, unless -we sincerely resolve in the strength of JESUS CHRIST to subdue our -favourite, our darling passion, and spare not one _Agag_, though ever -so engaging, ever so beautiful, all our other sacrifices will avail -us nothing. Suppose therefore, for instance, PASSION be our greatest -foible. A sincere person will never cease night or day, till he is -made meek and lowly in heart. But if it be asked, how he shall do -this? I answer, _first_, let him consider how odious it is in the -sight of GOD, and how contrary to the lamb-like meekness of the holy -JESUS. _Secondly_, Let him reflect how troublesome it must be to -others, (for alas what unnecessary disorders, what needless troubles -doth the passionate person occasion to all that are round about him?) -_Thirdly_, Let him consider how exceeding hurtful and unpleasant it -is to himself; how it ruffles and discomposes his mind; unfits him -for every holy duty, and in short makes him a torment to himself and -a burden to others. Well, after he has thus seen the deformity of his -darling passion, the next enquiry must be, how to get the mastery over -it. The first and grand thing, is to get a true and lively faith in -CHRIST JESUS, seeking for it by earnest prayer. To this, we must have -recourse in all our struggles; for it’s GOD alone, who can subdue -and govern the unruly wills of sinful men, and it is his grace which -alone can enable us to mortify our corrupt passions. But then we must -take care not to rest in general petitions for conquering this or that -corruption; but must descend to particulars. For instance, supposing -I am angry with a servant or husband without a cause; What must I -do? Why, take the very first opportunity of retiring from the world, -and after having bewailed my being angry, earnestly beseech the LORD -of all power and might to enable me to withstand such and such a -provocation for the future, and notwithstanding I should fail again -and again in the very same instance, yet I would again and again -renew my petitions to the throne of grace, and never cease praying -and striving, till instead of a blind, perverse, troublesome passion, -I had the lovely, calm, and delightful grace of meekness and humility -planted in its room. Now would dear Mrs. _H._ take some such method as -this (for I suppose by this time, she guesses to whom all this points) -I dare say, she would quickly find as much difference in herself as -there is between a wise man and an idiot.――And that she may both begin -and succeed in this method, is the earnest prayer of, Dear Mrs. _H._ - - Your affectionate friend, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXVI. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _London, Sept. 28, 1737._ - _My Dear Friend_, - -I Thank you for your last kind letter and kinder wishes. May they be -turned into prayers, and heard at the throne of grace. Blessed be GOD -for your new correspondence with our _Oxford_ friends. I hope you will -be instrumental to build each other up in the knowledge and fear of -our LORD and SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST. GOD still works powerfully here. -People flock more than ever, and shew the sincerity of their hearts -by giving liberally to the poor. I have preached four charity sermons -within this little while, and the collections were larger than ever -were known. Not unto me, O LORD, not unto me; but unto thy Name be the -glory and praise thereof! I am glad, since ♦it’s the divine will, that -my brother is coming up, though my ability as to temporals you know is -small. But I have an all-sufficient GOD to apply to in all emergencies. -I am sorry ♠for my brother’s loss; but I fear he must have greater, -before he is awakened out of his spiritual lethargy. GOD sanctify -all his dispensations to him. I know not why we go not to _Georgia_; -but there is no likelihood of it yet, as I see. Friends universally -dissuade me from going by myself; but I hope it will not be long now, -before we shall launch into the deep. To-night I preach again at _Bow_ -church, before the religious societies. GOD opens my heart to compose -freely. O praise him, dear Mr. _H._ for this and all his other mercies, -conferred on, Dear Sir, - - Your and Mrs. _H._’s affectionate friend, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘its’ replaced with ‘it’s’ - - ♠ removed duplicate ‘for’ - - - LETTER XXVII. - - _To the Same._ - - _London, Oct. 25, 1737._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -MULTIPLICITY of business prevented my writing to you before. But -though you have not heard from me by letter, yet you may assure -yourself, dear Sir, I never forget mentioning you in my prayers. GOD -knows that I and some other friends intercede most fervently for you, -and very frequently even at midnight. May GOD, for CHRIST’s sake, -hear and answer them! We sail not for _Georgia_ this month. I suppose -you have heard of my _mighty deeds_, falsely so called, by reading -the news-papers; for I find some back-friend has published abroad my -preaching four times in a day; but I beseech Mr. _Raikes_, the printer, -never to put me into his news upon any such account again, for it is -quite contrary to my inclinations and positive orders. GOD still works -here. The collections for the charity schools, in all the churches -where I preach, are very large. All _London_ is alarmed. Many youths -here sincerely love our LORD JESUS CHRIST; and thousands, I hope, are -quickened, strengthened, and confirmed by the word preached. I was -never in better health, and never composed more freely. O praise the -LORD, dear Sir, and pray that I may not be self-sufficient but humble. -I am glad dear Mrs. _H._ is recovered. May she, with _Peter_’s wife’s -mother, arise and minister to JESUS CHRIST. GOD reward her for all -her works and labours of love. Blessed be GOD my hands are full of -business. A third edition of my sermon on regeneration is coming out. -Write to me quickly, accept my hearty thanks and love, and expect to -hear again from, Dear Sir, - - Ever your’s, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXVIII. - - _To the Same._ - - _Nov. 14, 1737._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Heartily thank you for your last, and having a few moments, sit down -to answer it. Let not my friends trouble me with temporal offers, I -shall accept (GOD assisting me) of no place this side _Jordan_. We -embark for _Georgia_ in about three weeks or a month at farthest. You -wish me good luck in the name of the LORD. I hope to send to you again -before I sail. Mr. _M――――n_ is going amongst the colliers again at -_Bristol_, and a church, I hope, will be built for them. Prosper, -O LORD, the work of his hands upon him!――Mrs. _Farmer_, whenever my -circumstances will admit, shall be paid all that is due to her on -my mother’s account. GOD still works more and more by my unworthy -ministry. Last week, save one, I preached ten times in different -churches; and the last week seven; and yesterday four times, and read -prayers twice, though I slept not above an hour the night before, -which was spent in religious conversation, and in interceding for you, -Mrs. _H._, good Mr. _Pauncefoot_, &c. I now begin to preach charity -sermons twice or thrice a week, besides two or three on _Sundays_, and -sixty or seventy pounds are collected weekly for the poor children. -Thousands would come in to hear, but cannot. This night I preached -a funeral sermon before a most crouded audience, and GOD, I believe, -worked upon the people’s hearts. O pray for me still, _dear Sir_, that -I may renew my strength, that I may walk and not be weary, run and -not be faint. Admire GOD’s free grace in CHRIST JESUS, and let his -goodness to me, the worst of sinners, strengthen your faith, and make -you never to despair of mercy. Farewell. My love to all, and am, Dear -Sir, in sincerity, - - Your friend, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXIX. - - _To Mrs. H._ - - _London, Dec. 23, 1737._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -ONCE more I send you a line. Nothing but an excess of business, should -have prevented me writing to you oftner. Your favours, I hope, will -never be forgotten, and never cease to be mentioned before the throne -of grace, GOD only knows, how earnestly I have recommended you and -your’s to his never-failing mercy. On _Wednesday_ night eighteen of -us continued all night in praises, and praying for you and our other -friends. I know, that passion is the sin, which most easily besets -you, and therefore I always pray that you may have grace given you to -conquer it, and to learn of JESUS CHRIST to be meek and lowly in heart. -Then, and not till then, you will find rest to your soul. Pardon me, -_dear Mrs. H._ for being thus free. Your kindness compels me to it. -Had I not a sincere regard for you, I should not express myself thus. -Besides, it’s the last time, perhaps, I shall write to you in this -world, and therefore would have this letter contain some instructive -hints. We sail, GOD willing, next week. Great things have been done -for us here. Perhaps upwards of a thousand pounds have been collected -for the poor, and the charity schools, and I have preached above an -hundred times, since I have been here. A visible alteration is made -also in hundreds. Last _Sunday_ at six in the morning, when I gave my -farewell, the whole church was drowned in tears: they wept and cried -aloud, as a mother weepeth for her first born. Since that, there is -no end of persons coming and weeping, telling me what GOD has done -for their souls: others again beg little books, and desire me to -write their names in them. The time would fail me, was I to relate -how many have been awakened, and how many pray for me. The great day -will discover all. In the mean while, I beseech you Mrs. _H._ by the -mercies of GOD to pray, that the goodness of GOD may make me humble. -As yet the divine strength has been magnified in my weakness. Many -have opposed, but in vain. GOD’s power conquers all. I am now going -as _Abraham_ did, not knowing whither I go; but I commit myself to the -guidance of GOD’s good providence and spirit. He that has and doth, -will deliver me out of all my troubles. I only wish, I could debase -myself low enough, that I might be more fitted for the high and lofty -one who inhabiteth eternity, to work by. I am a proud, imperious, -sinful worm; but GOD, I hope, in time, will conform me to the image -of his dear Son. He has begun (for ever adored be his free grace), -and I trust, he will finish his good work in me. Out of the money -that GOD has sent me, I will pay all the debts I can. I have sent some -of it to Mrs. _Wells_, with particular orders how to be disposed of; -two guineas are for Mrs. _Farmer_ towards the debt due to her from -my mother. My farewell sermon will be published shortly, with two or -three more. Dear Mrs. _H._ farewell. GOD reward you and your’s for all -your works of faith and labours of love, and grant we may so believe, -and so live here, as to meet in eternal glory hereafter, - - Ever your’s, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXX. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Margate, Jan. 9, 1738._ - _Dear Sir_, - -HITHER the good providence of GOD has safely brought us; our ship -cast anchor near this town, and my dear fellow-traveller and I came -on shore (to our great comfort) to buy some things we wanted. We have -been most courteously treated by the curate of the place, and had -some christian conversation. The winds and storms are blustering about -our ears, and teaching us lessons of obedience to him, whom winds and -storms obey. GOD give us grace to learn them. Mr. _B._ can inform you, -what other particulars have happened to us, since we left you; I need -only add, that the divine goodness attends us wherever we go. Oh dear -Sir! who would but leave their few ragged, tattered nets to follow -JESUS CHRIST? Who would but follow the Lamb wheresoever he shall be -pleased to lead? Pray, _dear Sir_, that I may always do so, and then, -I am sure, GOD will never leave or forsake me. You see, dear Sir, I -have answered your kind letter much sooner than expectation, in order -to express how sincerely I value your friendship, though you differ -from me in some outward modes. Indeed, Sir, I hope the favours I have -received from you and others of your christian brethren, will never go -out of my mind; but I shall often plead them (as I have done already) -at the throne of grace. I would willingly be of so catholic a spirit, -as to love the image of my divine master, wherever I see it: I am far -from thinking GOD’s grace is confined to any set of men whatsoever: -no, I know the partition-wall is now broken down, and that JESUS -CHRIST came to redeem people out of all nations and languages and -tongues; and therefore his benefits are not to be confined to this or -that particular set of professors. I only wish, that I may have grace -given me to preach the truth, as it is in JESUS; and then, come what -will, I hope I shall (as I do, blessed be GOD) rejoice. - -You know, Sir, what a design I am going upon, and what a stripling I -am for so great a work; but I stand forth as _David_ against _Goliah_ -in the name of the LORD of HOSTS, and I doubt not, but he that has and -doth, will still deliver unto the end. GOD give me a deep humility, a -well-guided zeal, a burning love, and a single eye, and then let men -or devils do their worst.――Dear Sir, I could write more, but nature -calls for rest. Be pleased to give my hearty love to all you and -I know, and acquaint them, how safe I am here; for otherwise the -tempestuous night might put them and others in pain for, _Dear Sir_, - - Your unworthy, though affectionate friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXI. - - _To Mrs. H._ - - _Deal, Jan. 11, 1738._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -HITHER has GOD safely brought us. Pray give thanks on my behalf. We -have had two little storms, the one we escaped by being at _Margate_, -the other we were enabled to bear manfully, and to pray for you and -yours on open deck in the midst of it. All the officers are exceeding -civil. The captain gives me the free use of his cabin, and some -impression is made on the soldiers. I read prayers and preach twice -every day, and, would you think it, the very soldiers stand out to -say their catechism. Oh that they may be soldiers of JESUS CHRIST. GOD -gives me great joy, and excites me to adore him more and more, when -I behold his wonders in the deep. I am but a fresh-water sailor; but -GOD’s strength will be magnified in my weakness, and I verily believe -we shall arrive at the haven, where we wou’d be. Oh that we may all -so pass thro’ the waves of this troublesome world, that at last we -may arrive at the port of everlasting rest! Expect to hear from me at -_Gibraltar_, and assure yourself your favours shall never be forgotten -by - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXII. - - _To Mr. ――――._ - - _Deal, Jan. 21, 1738._ - -SUPPOSE I answer _dear Mr. ――――_ before I reach _Georgia_, Will he -be angry? I fancy not. I had a mind to write to you again, before I -received yours. For as you have been so liberal in your presents, it -would be unpardonable in me, was I niggardly in my letters. No, my -dear friend, I hope I never shall cease praying for you and yours, -so long as I live. Hitherto I have not. I was praying for you just -as I received yours: I am glad to hear you prayed before you wrote to -me. Surely GOD will bless such a correspondence. O my friend, let us -still wrestle with GOD, that we may be stedfast, unmoveable, always -abounding in the work of the LORD. For it is perseverance crowns our -labours. _He, and He only can be saved._ The world, the flesh and -the devil are three such potent enemies, that we must strive, we must -persevere, if we will gain a conquest. Strive then; let us, my dear -friend, strive as persons striving for eternity. Let us abstain from -all appearance of evil, and avoid all company, that doth not directly -tend to the promoting our spiritual welfare. Whether one of the -societies you frequent, my dear friend, has a tendency that way, I -leave you to judge. I think I have heard you say, it keeps you from -family and secret prayer. If that is not a sufficient reason for -absenting from it, I’ll say no more. I believe you to be sincere, and -therefore, if you consult GOD by prayer and reading his word, your way -will be made clear before you. I only add, that I could wish, instead -of frequenting _that_, you would set up another society of a quite -contrary nature on the same night of the week. I know Mr. ―――― had -some such design on foot, and desired me to mention it. I wish you -good success in this and every pious undertaking in the name of the -LORD. May GOD reward you for all your kindnesses, and make you to -abound in every good word and work! may you walk by faith and not -by sight; and tho’ you are in the world, may you not be of it! I -preach here, GOD willing, to-morrow; there’s likely to be a great -congregation. O pray, that they may not be sent away empty, but -converted by, dear _Mr. ――――_, - - Your affectionate friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXIII. - - _Deal, Jan. 25, 1738._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Am ashamed of my ingratitude in not writing to you before; but -you’ll not wonder I am ungrateful to my friends, when I tell you I -am ungrateful to my GOD. However, as I always remark’d you for your -charity, I know you will imitate Him you so resemble, and upon my -promise of amendment for the future, will pardon what is past. Oh -dear Sir, how shall I express my gratitude to dear ――――? But above -all, what return shall I make to my ever-blessed REDEEMER for all the -favours he hath bestowed upon me? Help, I entreat you, help me to be -thankful, and as you abound in prayer, abound in praises. I find my -heart too backward to this divine exercise. I am ready enough to ask -for mercies, but alas! how slow to return thanks! Indeed sometimes -GOD touches me from above, and my heart, hard as it is, is melted down -and quite overcome with the sense of his free grace in CHRIST JESUS -towards me. But I want always to go on my way rejoicing; I want the -heart of a seraphim; - - _I want to sing as loud as they, - Who shine above in endless day._ - -I could almost say more than they, and why should I not return angelic -thanks? But my heart is as yet unhumbled, I see not what I am, what -I deserve, and therefore set not a due value on the divine mercies. -Pray therefore, _dear Mr. ――――_, that I may receive my sight, that my -eyes may be opened, and that seeing what GOD hath done for me, I may -break out into songs of praise, and by such heart-transforming divine -exercises be gradually trained up for eternal uninterrupted communion -with that heavenly choir, who cease not chanting forth day and night -hallelujahs to Him that sitteth upon the throne and to the Lamb for -ever. _Dear Mr. ――――_, I can relate to you fresh matter for praise and -thanksgiving; a divine fire seems to be kindling in _Deal_. I preached -on _Sunday_, and this day. The inhabitants are quite affectionate, and -so desirous to hear the word, at my private lodgings, as well as at -public churches, that I am obliged to divide them into two companies. -And GOD, blessed be his free grace in CHRIST JESUS, helps me through. -I suppose my dear friend has heard how affairs go on shipboard. I need -only add, that GOD makes his power to be known among those that sail -with me, and there are great hopes of the captain’s conversion. O pray, -that he may not be an almost, but an altogether christian. Dear Mr. -――――, farewell. It’s late, and many other friends must have a line -to-night. May GOD reward you for all kindnesses, and keep you stedfast -unto the end. Pray return my hearty thanks to all your Brethren; tell -them I sincerely pray for their growth and perseverance in holiness, -and am, dear Mr. ――――, - - Your affectionate, tho’ unworthy friend - and servant in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXIV. - - _Gibraltar Harbour, Feb. 24, 1738._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Bless GOD for inclining your heart to take my advice. I know it was -intended well, and I hope proceeded from the spirit of GOD. The many -fatal consequences I have daily seen, proceeding from conversing with -lukewarm christians, makes me jealous of my dear friends, lest they -should be infected by them; and the great tendency I find in my own -heart to catch every infection, makes me to resolve for myself, and -to put others on resolving to keep no set company but with religious -persons. I hope by this time I may wish you joy of settling a new -society with _Messrs. ――――_; and I doubt not but your hearts have -already burnt within you, whilst you talked to one another of the -scriptures of truth. I am sure there is scarce a night has passed over -my head but I have wrestled with GOD for you, and prayed that he would -prosper this work of your hands upon you. My hearty desire and daily -petition at the throne of grace is, that you may be saved; and tho’ I -know not much of your dear wife’s temper, yet I pray, that she may be -meek and lowly in heart, not easily provoked, nor answer unnecessarily -again. I pray, that you both may walk as _Zachary_ and _Elizabeth_ did -before the LORD blameless, that you may love one another, as CHRIST -and the church, and see your children like olive-branches round about -your table. I pray, that you may persevere in the good way you have -begun, that you may abstain from all appearance of evil, and dare -to be exemplarily good. I pray, that you may practice an universal -self-denial, and perfect holiness in the fear of GOD. I could say -much more, but must away to _Gibraltar_; one of the _Majors_ of the -regiments has sent for me, having provided a lodging at a merchant’s -house unknown to me. Oh admire GOD’s goodness! Accept my thanks and -love, and believe me to be, more than words can express, - - Your affectionate friend in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXV. - - _To Mr. ――――._ - - _Gibraltar, Feb. 25, 1738._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Should think myself unworthy of your friendship, did I not send you -a line now GOD has brought me in safety hither. I know you will give -thanks, and therefore, GOD forbid I should sin against the LORD in not -informing you of it.――Your prayers have already been heard; for GOD -(ever adored be his free grace in CHRIST JESUS) hath been with us of -a truth. He hath led us through the sea, as through a wilderness, and -brought us to a haven, where I am honoured with many honours.――Any one -that knows _Gibraltar_ would be apt to say, Can any good come out from -thence? Yes, I assure you, there may; for there are some that are not -ashamed of the gospel of CHRIST. About six o’clock this morning I went -to the church, where was assembled a number of decent soldiers praying -and singing psalms to CHRIST as GOD. They meet constantly three times -a day, and I intend, GOD willing, henceforward to meet them. For my -delight is in the saints who are in the earth, and those that excel -in virtue. I have talked with some of them, and, blessed be GOD, can -find the marks of the new birth in them. They pray without ceasing, -have overcome the world, hate sin, as sin, love their enemies and one -another. They glory in the cross of CHRIST, and rejoice that they are -accounted worthy to suffer shame for the sake of CHRIST. O, who would -but travel to see how the spirit of GOD is moving on the faces of -poor sinners souls up and down the world! GOD, I find, has a people -every where; CHRIST has a flock, though but a little flock, in all -places.――GOD be praised, that we are of this flock, and that it will -be our Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom!――_Gibraltar_ -is blessed with a governor, who hath not absented himself from -public worship, unless when he was sick, for these seven years, and -yet is very moderate towards the dissenters. Both conformists and -nonconformists perform public worship, though at different times of -the day, in the same place: They also have a religious society. The -good LORD prosper this work of their hands upon them. Whenever we -go away, may we leave a blessing behind us. He is a prayer-hearing -GOD.――Yesterday a major of one of the regiments, unknown to me, took -two handsome rooms, and sent for me from on board, desiring me to -lodge in them; and I find the people of the house fear GOD.――“When -I sent you without scrip or shoe, lacked you any thing?” said our -LORD. They said nothing.――O, dear Mr. ――――, I beseech you abound in -thanksgiving, and pray that all these blessings may humble my proud -heart, and make me willing to follow the Lamb whithersoever he shall -lead me. Assure yourself, that you and all your christian friends are -constantly prayed for by, dear Sir, - - Your’s most affectionately in the LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXVI. - - _Gibraltar, Feb. 27, 1738._ - _Dear Sir_, - -EVER since I left _Gravesend_, I remember the fulness of your heart. -I have been a constant petitioner at the throne of grace for you, and -intended writing to you before, but was ♦let hitherto. However, GOD -has now brought me safe to _Gibraltar_, and as I have time, I should -think myself inexcusable, did I not send a line to dear Mr. ――――, to -assure him, I forgot not his tears, and wish him to be not only an -almost, but an altogether christian. Dear Sir, you are young and in -the bloom of youth, and it would rejoice my heart to see you triumph -over the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life, -and to become a poor despised servant of JESUS CHRIST. Others, indeed, -may wish you wealth, may wish you pomp and grandeur; but believe me, -my dear friend, these will not, these cannot, make you happy: No, -nothing but GOD can satisfy the heart of man; nothing but an assurance, -that we are born again, that we are members of CHRIST, that we are -united to him by one and the same spirit with which he himself was -actuated. Without this, if we were to have our appetites regaled with -the richest dainties, be cloathed with purple and fine linen, and -fare sumptuously every day, yet the hand-writing upon the wall, the -consideration, that all these things are quickly to be taken away, -would make our visage to change, and our knees, like _Belshazzar_’s, -to smite one against another. Strive then, my dear friend, to get -the spirit of CHRIST, who will keep close to you, when all other -comforts fail; will make you happy here, and unspeakably happy -hereafter.――Never fear the contempt you will meet with; yet a little -while, and they that call you fool, will call themselves so, and curse -that worldly wisdom, which tempted them to evade the cross of CHRIST. -Strange! that any one should let a little reproach deprive them of -an eternal crown! LORD, what is man! How blind as to the knowledge of -his true interest! How backward in the pursuit of his eternal good! -O, dear Mr. ――――, let us not be of the number of those, who desire the -honour that cometh of man; but be content with that which cometh from -GOD. In a short time, we shall have praise enough. Heaven will echo -with the applause that shall be given to the true followers of the -Lamb, and then you will see how sincerely I was, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘lett’ replaced with ‘let’ - - - LETTER XXXVII. - - _To Mrs. H._ - - _At Sea, April 14, 1738._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -THOUGH through excess of business, and the shortness of the time, -that was allotted me, I wrote but a few lines to you from _Gibraltar_, -yet, what hinders, but that I may send you a longer letter now? It’s -true we are now near a thousand miles from _Georgia_; but as I shall -have an opportunity of sending immediately on our arrival, I chuse -to take time by the forelock, and embrace the first opportunity of -acknowledging my obligations to dear Mrs. _H._ and her husband; for -whom I pray without ceasing. Your past favours are seldom out of my -mind; I plead them daily before GOD in prayer, and hope, if it is ever -in my power, I shall imitate the example of pious _David_ in yesterday -evening’s first lesson, and requite my friends, particularly dear Mrs. -_H._ and her spouse, for the kindnesses they have shewn me. However, -supposing this should not happen, they will in no-wise lose their -reward. But I know you do not care I should dwell on this. You want -to be informed, how GOD has dealt with me since I left _Gibraltar_? -Exceeding graciously indeed. He has comforted me on every occasion, -most remarkably blessed my unworthy ministry on board the ship, -sent us most delightful weather, and made us to ride as it were on -the wings of the wind. We live in perfect love and harmony one with -another. I know but little difference between sea and land, and have -great reason to bless GOD for sending me abroad. A grievous sickness -has been sent amongst us, by which most of the ship have been -chastened and corrected but only two given over unto death; and GOD -hath been so good to me, that, except for a little time after we -sailed from _Gibraltar_, I have been in perfect health, and now GOD -satisfieth my mouth with good things, making me strong and lively as a -young eagle. I have nothing to disturb my joy in GOD, but the disorder -of my passions. Were these once brought into a proper subjection to -divine grace, O well would it be with me, and happy should I be. But -so long as I am angry for trifles, and throw myself into needless -disorders, so long must my heart be like the troubled sea, so long -consequently must I be unhappy. Pray therefore, dear Mrs. _H._ that -I may lay the ax of mortification to the root of my most darling -corruptions, and since I have but little, if any thing, to disturb me -without, O pray that I may meet with no disturbance from myself within. -The farther particulars of my voyage, you will see in my journal, -which I have sent to Mr. _Hutton_, and for the blessings contained -therein, I beseech you to return GOD most humble and hearty thanks. -About _Christmas_ next, GOD willing, I purpose to come to _England_ -to take priests orders, and to return as soon as possible to _Georgia_. -In the mean while, dear Mrs. _H._ let us strive to enter in at the -strait gate, that we may be christians indeed, and know what it is -truly to be born again from above, and to be renewed by the spirit -in our minds. Remember me most affectionately to all friends. I am, - - Your’s, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXVIII. - - _To Mr. ――――._ - - _On board the Whitaker, April 17, 1738._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -TO assure you I do not forget you, I write to you, as yet, eight -hundred miles off shore. Your honest heart has won my affections. I -make mention of you and your’s continually at the throne of grace in -my prayers, and shall have no greater pleasure than to hear you walk -in the truth. In your last, I think you said, you would desist from -frequenting any other societies, but what immediately tended to the -promoting of true religion, and ere now, I doubt not but you have seen -the benefit of it. I have often pleased myself with the hopes, that -you, dear Mr. ――――, had set up another society among yourselves, and -often have I thought, I felt the benefit of your prayers; for GOD -hath blessed me exceedingly, and brought us on our way rejoicing; and -has shewn me, that he doth not send me abroad in vain.――How GOD will -deal with me at _Savannah_, I know not; however, let my friends be -always lifting up their hands in intercession, and then our spiritual -_Amalek_ will not prevail. Hitherto I have been made to go on from -conquering to conquer. GOD gives me a chearful spirit, and crowns -my feeble labours with success. And why should I despair of future -assistance? Are not these earnests of future mercies? And may I not -expect, when I am duly prepared, to see greater things than these? -Cry therefore mightily unto the LORD, that I may be humble, and that -I may tremble at his word, and then he will delight to honour me. I -live in hopes of seeing you and your wife again (growing in grace) -in _England_. You told me, she desired I would draw her picture; but -alas! she has applied to an improper limner. However, though I cannot -describe what she is, I can tell what she ought to be.――Meek, patient, -long-suffering, obedient in all things, not self-willed, not soon -angry, no brawler, swift to hear, slow to speak, and ready to every -good word and work. But I can no more, I dare not go on in telling -another what she ought to be, when I want so much myself; only this -I know, when possessed of those good qualities before-mentioned, she -will then be as happy as her heart can wish, and afford great reason -of thanksgiving to, dear Mr. ――――, - - Your and Mrs. ――――’s affectionate friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XXXIX. - - _To Mr. ――――._ - - _On board the Whitaker, May 6, 1738._ - _My dear Friend_, - -HOW goes time? I can scarce tell; for I have been some time past, -as one would think, launching into eternity. GOD has been pleased -graciously to visit me with a violent fever, which he notwithstanding -so sweetened by divine consolations, that I was enabled to rejoice -and sing in the midst of it. Indeed, I had many violent conflicts with -the powers of darkness, who did all they could to disturb and distract -me; but JESUS CHRIST prayed for me: And though I was once reduced -to the last extremity, and all supernatural assistance seemed to be -suspended for a while, and satan as it were had dominion over me, yet -GOD suffered not my faith to fail; but came in at length to my aid, -rebuked the tempter, and from that moment I grew better. Surely GOD is -preparing me for something extraordinary: For he has now sent me such -extraordinary conflicts and comforts as I never before experienced. I -was as I thought on the brink of eternity. I had heaven within me; I -thought of nothing in this world; I earnestly desired to be dissolved -and go to CHRIST; but GOD was pleased to order it otherwise, and I am -resigned, though I can scarce be reconciled to come back again into -this vale of misery. I had the heavenly _Canaan_ in full view, and -hoped I was going to take possession of it; but GOD saw I was not yet -ripe for glory, and therefore in mercy spared me, that I may recover -my spiritual strength before I go hence and am no more seen. Oh pray, -my dear friend, that I may not grow lukewarm, or slothful, but arise -from my late bed of sickness, and administer with ten times more -alacrity to my blessed Master, than ever I did before. I would write -more, but my strength faileth me. We hope to be at _Savannah_ on -_Monday_. - - Your’s, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XL. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Savannah, June 10, 1738._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -ABOUT five weeks I have been at _Savannah_, where providence seems -to intend continuing me for some time. GOD has graciously visited -me with a fit of sickness; but now I am lively as a young eagle. All -things have happened better than expectation. _America_ is not so -horrid a place as it is represented to be. The heat of the weather, -lying on the ground, &c. are mere painted lions in the way, and to -a soul filled with divine love not worth mentioning. The country, -mornings and evenings, is exceeding pleasant, and there are uncommon -improvements made (considering the indifference of the soil) in divers -places. With a little assistance the country people would do very well. -As for my ministerial office, I can inform you, that GOD (such is his -goodness) sets his seal to it here, as at other places. We have an -excellent christian school, and near a hundred constantly attend at -evening prayers. The people receive me gladly, as yet, into their -houses, and seem to be most kindly affected towards me. I have a -pretty little family, and find it possible to manage a house without -distraction. Provisions we do not want to feed on, though we are cut -off from all occasions to pamper our bodies. Blessed be GOD, I visit -from house to house, catechise, read prayers twice and expound the two -second lessons every day; read to a house-ful of people three times -a week; expound the two lessons at five in the morning, read prayers -and preach twice, and expound the catechism to servants, &c. at seven -in the evening every _Sunday_. What I have most at heart, is the -building an orphan-house, which I trust will be effected at my return -to _England_. In the mean while, I am settling little schools in -and about _Savannah_; that the rising generation may he bred up in -the nurture and admonition of the LORD. The LORD prosper my weak -endeavours for promoting his glory and his people’s good. Oh, dear -Mr. _H._ pray for me. For I do, indeed I do, pray for you and your’s. -Remember me to dear Mrs. _H._ and exhort her to perfect holiness in -the fear of GOD. Remind Mr. _W――――_, (since he will not hearken to me) -to work out his salvation with fear and trembling, and beg him to pray -for, though he will not write to, dear Mr. _H._ - - Ever, ever your’s, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLI. - - _To Mr. ――――._ - - _Kilrush, (Ireland) Nov. 16, 1738._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Have not forgot you; and as a proof of it, send you this to acquaint -you of my safe arrival here. I know you will rejoice and give thanks, -and pray that my coming to _London_ may be in the fulness of the -blessing of the gospel of peace. GOD has done for me more abundantly -than I could dare ask or think. The seed of the glorious gospel has -taken root in the _American_ ground, and, I hope, will grow up into a -great tree. By my friends prayers I believe it hath been planted. Oh -that they may continue to water it with the same means, and then our -great GOD will give it an effectual increase.――I hope to see you in -a few days at my old lodgings, and to rejoice with you for what GOD -has done for our souls. Indeed, I have felt his power; I have tasted -and known of a truth, that the LORD is gracious! _America_, infant -_Georgia_, is an excellent soil for christianity; you cannot live -there without taking up a daily cross. Therefore, I shall hasten back -as soon as possible after _Christmas_. Oh! that, in the mean while, I -may be enabled to be instant in season and out of season, and preach -with demonstration of the spirit, and with power! Methinks I see -Mr. ―――― lifting up his eyes towards heaven, and silently saying, -Amen.――I hope you will excuse Mr. _D._’s letter. I have forgot his -house, though not his person and his love. No, all your kindnesses, -O my friends, are engraven upon my heart, and I trust will never be -forgotten by, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend and humble Servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLII. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _London, Dec. 30, 1738._ - _My dear Friend_, - -I Am appointed by the trustees to be minister of _Savannah_. The -bishop of _London_ (Doctor _Gibson_) accepts the title, and has -given me letters demisory to any other bishop. I have waited also on -Doctor _Secker_, bishop of _Oxford_, who acquaints me that our worthy -diocesan, good Bishop _Benson_, ordains for him to-morrow fortnight -at _Oxford_, and that he will give me letters demisory to him. GOD -be praised; I was praying night and day, whilst on ship-board, if it -might be the divine will, that good Bishop _Benson_, who laid hands -on me as a deacon, might now make me a priest.――And now my prayer -is answered.――Be pleased to wait on his Lordship, and desire him to -inform you, when I must be at _Oxford_ in order to receive imposition -of hands. Oh pray that I may be duly prepared. It will be a month -before I can see _Gloucester_. I long to see you. I love you and -your’s in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST; but I have scarce time to -subscribe myself, dear Sir, - - Your’s eternally, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLIII. - - _To the Same._ - - _London, Jan. 27, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -IF I forget Mr. _H._ and his wife, may my right-hand forget her -cunning. Excess of business alone was the cause of my silence. I -sleep but little, very little. Had I a thousand hands, I could employ -them all. I scarce know what it is to have an idle moment. It is late -now. I have just been expounding. GOD fills me with his spirit, and -I must redeem a little time to write to dear Mr. _H._ Indeed, indeed -I love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. O when shall I return your -past favours! I thank you for blessing GOD on my behalf. I want a -thousand tongues to praise him. He still works by me more and more. -Subscriptions for erecting an orphan-house come in a-pace. On _Monday_ -sevennight, GOD willing, I set out for _Bristol_, with Mr. _Seward_, -and from thence propose coming to _Gloucester_. Oh that it may be in -the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of peace! Mr. _Howel Harris_, -and I, are correspondents, blessed be GOD! May I follow him, as he -does JESUS CHRIST. How he outstrips me! Fye upon me, fye upon me. How -does my brother? My love to him and all. I long to see you and yours, -and to give you repeated assurances of my being, dear Sir, - - Your’s eternally, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLIV. - - _To the Mr. ――――_. - - _Basingstoke, Feb. 8, 1739._ - - _Dear Sir_, - -THOUGH I desired you to write first, yet the love I bear you, will -not suffer me to wait so long before you hear from me.――Just now has -GOD brought us to _Basingstoke_, where I hope an effectual door will -be opened before we leave it, as well as at _Windsor_.――Oh my dear -friend, more and more do I see the benefit of confessing our blessed -LORD before men.――You have not been ashamed of the cross.――No, dear -Mr. ―――― has put his hand to the plough; he will not, surely he cannot -look back; but JESUS CHRIST alone can keep me and my dear friend from -falling. He has begun and he will carry on, he will finish the good -work in our souls.――We have nothing to do, but to lay hold on him by -faith, and to depend on him for wisdom, righteousness, sanctification -and redemption. Not but we must be workers together with him; for a -true faith in JESUS CHRIST will not suffer us to be idle.――No, it is -an active, lively, restless principle; it fills the heart, so that it -cannot be easy, till it is doing something for JESUS CHRIST.――Methinks -I hear my dear friend crying out, “LORD, evermore give me this faith!” -Believe me, I heartily say, _Amen_. Ask then, my dear Sir, and it -shall be given you, seek and strive for it, and yet a little while and -I shall see you a new creature; your heart I hope is somewhat broken -already.――All praise be to GOD’s free grace in CHRIST.――Go on, my dear -friend, and never cease till you know you are CHRIST’s, by the spirit -that shall be given you. Never fear your carnal friends, renounce -them and every thing else that stands in competition with your duty to -GOD.――What have we to do to know any one after the flesh? Let him, who -doth the will of our Father in heaven, be our brother, our sister, our -mother. For this reason I subscribe myself, dear Sir, - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLV. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _Oxon, April 24, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -BLESSED be GOD for working upon your heart by my ministry. I hope the -wish’d-for time will come, when I shall see you full of faith and the -Holy Ghost. Copies may be taken of my letter; but I would not have it -printed, because I intend, when retir’d from the world, to make some -discourses on the subject of free grace. Pray acquaint your mother, -that I interceded for her solemnly last night. I besought GOD, that -she might have her Saviour revealed in her heart; that is the only way -to get above the fears of death. CHRIST in us is the hope of glory. -I rejoice to hear _Mr. Cole_ builds you up in your most holy faith. I -exhort you to go on, and who knows but dear _Mr. H._ may, under GOD, -keep up religion in _Gloucester_. _Mr. Kinchin’s_ conduct in fearing -the church, and giving up the parsonage, has sadly grieved the -spirit of many good souls here; but I bless GOD they are now a little -comforted. Oh dear _Mr. H――――_, my heart is drawn towards _London_ -most strangely. Perhaps you may hear of your friend’s imprisonment. -I expect no other preferment. GOD grant I may behave so, that when I -suffer, it may not be for my own imprudencies, but for righteousness -sake, and then I am sure the spirit of CHRIST and of glory will rest -upon my soul. Oh dear _Mr. H――――_, I beseech you, break off from the -world. Shake off every fetter that keeps your soul from GOD, and then -how will it rejoice the heart of, dear Sir, - - Your’s eternally, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLVI. - - _To the Same._ - - _London, April 27, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -I Rejoice to hear of the affection of my countrymen. It is a good sign, -that the word has taken deep root in their hearts. But above all, do -I rejoice that dear _Mr. H――――_ is truly sensible of the free grace of -GOD in CHRIST. Now, my dear friend, you will begin to be a christian -indeed. Blessed be GOD, I hear my honoured M―――― is becoming a fool -for CHRIST’s sake. I do not despair of Mr. _W._ nay, I cannot despair -of any one, when I consider, what I once was myself. Let but GOD speak -the word, and the work shall be done. I always hope well of opposers. -To-day, my master by his providence and spirit compelled me to preach -in the church-yard at _Islington_. To-morrow I am to repeat that mad -trick, and on _Sunday_ to go out into _Moor-Fields_. The word of the -LORD runs and is glorified. People’s hearts seem quite broken. GOD -strengthens me exceedingly.――I preach till I sweat through and through. -All is well at _Savannah_. Brave news from _Gibraltar_. Innumerable -blessings does GOD pour down upon me. Oh that I had a thankful heart. -I love you both sincerely; I thank you both heartily. I salute all our -dear friends most affectionately, and am, dear Sir, - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLVII. - - _To the Same._ - - _London, May 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -THE hour for my imprisonment is not yet come. I am not fit as yet to -be so highly honoured. GOD only knows the treachery of my heart; but -amidst all my late success, I have scarce felt one self-complacent -thought. I speak this to the honour of GOD’s free grace. In about -three weeks, GOD willing, we embark for _Pensilvania_. The trustees -have granted to me land and every thing upon my own terms; the -officers and general are exceeding kind to my friend _Habersham_ upon -my account, so that all things succeed beyond my expectations. I am -sorry to hear of Mr. _W――――_’s conduct――Poor man! The love of money -is rooted in his heart. Where is the honesty he so much boasts of and -relies on? Does not this more and more convince you that nothing but a -true faith in JESUS CHRIST will enable you to act aright? However, he -is not to be envyed. I pity him. Money, thus got, will never prosper. -I rejoice that you and your spouse are content. I wish you both may -have JESUS CHRIST formed in your hearts, and am - - Ever, ever yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLVIII. - - _To ――――._ - - _Blendon, June 12, 1739._ - _My dear Brethren in CHRIST_, - -I Am jealous over you with a godly jealousy, and therefore write to -you this second letter. I find more and more that satan has desired -to have some of you in particular, that he may sift you as wheat, and -will strive if possible to divide and separate you all.――I hear there -is a woman among you, who pretends to the spirit of prophecy, and -what is more unaccountable, I hear that Brother ―――― (whom I love in -the bowels of JESUS CHRIST) seems to approve of her. Need therefore, -great need have you, my brethren, at this time to take the apostle’s -advice, and to try the spirits whether they be of GOD. For the devil -is beginning to mimic GOD’s work, and because terrors will not do, -he is now transforming himself into an angel of light in order more -effectually to gain his point. Brother ―――― also, I cannot but think, -at present is under a spirit of delusion. He, as well as brother ――――, -I believe imagines there will be a power given to work miracles, -and that now CHRIST is coming to reign a thousand years upon the -earth.――But alas! what need is there of miracles, such as healing -sick bodies, and restoring sight to blind eyes, when we see greater -miracles every day done by the power of GOD’s word? Do not the -spiritually blind now see? Are not the spiritually dead now raised, -and the leprous souls now cleans’d, and have not the poor the gospel -preached unto them? And if we have the thing already, which such -miracles were only intended to introduce, why should we tempt GOD -in requiring further signs? He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. -And as for our LORD’s coming at this time to reign upon the earth, -I answer, it is not for us to know the times and seasons, which the -Father hath put in his own power.――That a great work is begun is -evident, that it will be carried on I doubt not; but how it will end, -I know not, neither do I desire to know. It is sufficient for me to -do the work of the day in its day, and to rest satisfied in this, -that all will end in GOD’s glory. Lately, brother ―――― told me he was -shortly, he believed, to be called to some public work.――I pray GOD -he may not run before he is called. To teach, I know, is a pleasing -thing; but to begin to teach too soon or without a commission, will -be destruction to ourselves, and of ill consequence to others. Uzzah -might mean well, when he touched the ark, but his good intention did -not preserve him from the just judgments of GOD. Be not many masters, -says the apostle. Oh that that verse was deeply engraven on the tables -of our hearts! My dear brethren, be not offended at this plainness -of speech. I would all the LORD’s servants were prophets, but then -I would not have people think themselves prophets of the LORD, when -they are only enthusiasts――If Mr. ―――― is acted by a good spirit, -why is he not patient of reproof? Why does he fly in a passion, when -contradicted? Why does he pretend to be infallible, and that GOD -always speaks in him? May GOD give us all a right judgment in all -things. Pure unfeigned love causes me to use this freedom. Many of -you GOD has worked upon by my ministry, and therefore I would not -have you ignorant of satan’s devices. O beware of him at this time. Do -not conceive prejudices against each other. Do not dispute, but love; -purge out the old leaven from amongst you. Have no fellowship with any -that converse with Mr. ――――. If they have a mind to depart from you, -let them depart. Do you build up each other in your most holy faith. -My dear brethren, - - I am your common servant in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XLIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. ――――_. - - _Leachlade, July 18, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -THE scene this morning much affected me; you both put me in mind, -how that happy pair, _Adam_ and _Eve_, looked when arraign’d by the -Almighty after having eaten the forbidden fruit. Behold the same -remedy reached out to you as to them.――The seed of the woman shall -bruise the serpent’s head.――Look up to him whom you have pierced.――He -will heal your backslidings and love you freely.――Had he not loved you -both, both of you ere now would have been given over to a reprobate -mind. I know the time, when you both were enlightned, when you -tasted the good word of GOD, and felt the powers of the world to -come.――Honour, falsely so called, has caused you to draw back, but I -believe not unto perdition. JESUS is still striving with your heart. -Come to him by faith, renounce the world, and he will yet delight to -honour you. “Now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.” -Mention not old things, let all things become new. I love both of you -from my heart. Come forth, and be ye separate, saith the LORD almighty. -Break with the world at once, and you shall become fools for CHRIST’s -sake. What if your wife sent some such letter as the following to her -parents. - - - _Honoured Father and Mother_, - -THE contents of this letter will surprize you, but I can no longer -halt between GOD and the world; the happy convictions, that GOD once -put into my heart, now arise in my mind, I will no longer be an almost -christian. I am resolved to become a fool for CHRIST’s sake. Blessed -be GOD Mr. _M――――_ is like-minded.――Hitherto have I hindered him in -his spiritual progress, GOD forbid I should do it any longer. Hence -forward will we go hand in hand together, and naked follow a naked -CHRIST.―― - - Dearest Mr.――――, I am ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER L. - - _London, July 23, 1739._ - _Dear Madam_, - -YOUR letter filled me with joy and with pity. Pity, to see you tempted, -joy, to find you are thought worthy of enduring temptation. Satan hath -desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But be not afraid, -JESUS CHRIST is praying for you, and your faith shall not fail. Your -master hath been in the wilderness before you, and knows by experience, -how to succour those that are tempted. Lift up then the hands that -hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees. Infidel books have -poisoned your understanding, and rivetted great pride therein. Strong -temptations are necessary to mortify that pride, and to teach you that -lowliness of heart, which our LORD calls all that are weary and heavy -laden to learn of him. Look up then to JESUS, the author and finisher -of your faith. He will send you help in every time of need. Indeed -he will never leave you, nor forsake you. Follow him as the poor -_Syrophœnician_ woman did, and though he may now turn away his face -seemingly for a while, yet he will always support you inwardly by a -living faith, and shortly give you the spirit of adoption, whereby -you will be enabled to cry, “Abba, Father.” I speak this by happy -experience. I have mourned, but now I am comforted. I have gone -through the spirit of bondage, and, for ever be adored GOD’s free -grace, he has given me the spirit of adoption. And that you also will -have this in GOD’s due time and way, is the firm belief of - - Your unworthy brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LI. - - _London, July 23, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -I Wish you joy of your new-born son. Oh that it may be made a real -child of GOD. I purpose, GOD willing, to stand to my promise, either -in person, or by proxy. I know not yet, how providence will be pleased -to dispose of me. I have written to the Lords of the Admiralty for -a licence. Saturday evening next, I hope you will see _Mr. Charles -Wesley_. He intends to preach at _Gloucester_, _Raindwick_, &c. -Pray desire _Mr. Cole_ and our other dear friends to appoint places. -Matters go on most bravely here. I think people are ten times more -affected than ever. The audiences full and numerous, and they give -their mites for the orphan house with a chearful and ready heart. -Have you heard how I preached upon the stage among the cudgel players -at _Basingstoke_, and got a blow? Both I and my companions were also -turned out of our inn, and in danger of being beaten heartily. Blessed -be GOD! My sermon comes out on _Wednesday_. Heartiest love to dear -Mrs. H――――. That JESUS CHRIST may be fully formed in both your hearts, -is the prayer of, - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LII. - - _London, July 24, 1739._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -THOUGH but a child in grace, and a novice in the things of GOD, yet -I could not escape this opportunity of shewing you, how dear you are -to my soul. Though unknown in person, yet you have long since been -known to me in spirit. I hoped to have seen you ere I left _London_. -I hasted up to town hoping to have some spiritual gift imparted to -me by that means, but I was not worthy of it, I was not prepared for -such a blessing.――You went before I came. A great work of GOD is doing -here. The LORD JESUS gets himself the victory every day; free grace -compels poor sinners to come in. Our brother ―――― can inform you of -particulars. As for my own soul, GOD mightily strengthens me in the -inward man, and gives me often such foretastes of his love, that I -am almost continually wishing to be dissolved, that I may be with -CHRIST.――But I am only beginning to begin to be a christian.――I -must suffer also, as well as do for my dear Master. Perhaps a -storm is gathering. I believe GOD will permit it to fall on my head -first.――This comes then, honoured Sir, to desire your prayers, that -none of those things may move me; and that I may not count even my -life dear unto me, so that I may finish my course with joy, and the -ministry which I have received of the LORD JESUS. Though I die for him, -yet, I beseech you, honoured Sir, to pray that I may not in any way -deny him. But what am I doing? I fear, honoured Sir, I am too free. -A sense of your humility and love for the blessed JESUS makes me thus -open. How should I rejoice, if you would honour me with a line.――I -am young, and therefore a word of exhortation and advice, would much -profit, honoured Sir, - - Your very humble servant, in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LIII. - - _London, July 25, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -NOT a want of love, but of time, has obliged me to shorten my late -letters. Had I an hundred hands I could employ them all. The harvest -is very great. I am ashamed I can do no more for him, who hath done -so much for me; not by way of retaliation, but gratitude. Fain would -I love my master, and will not go from him; his service is perfect -freedom; his yoke is easy, his burden light. Still he is pleased to -shew us greater things. Every day affords fresh instances of the power -of his word. I am now about to attack satan in one of his strong-holds, -if I perish.――To-night I preach, GOD willing, where an horse-race -is to be. I find my Master strengthens me for the work. O, dear Sir, -pray for me, that my faith fail not, and that my zeal be tempered with -knowledge. Our brother ―――― will prove an agreeable correspondent. -If business prevents my writing, he will inform you what happens from -time to time to, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LIV. - - _London, July 26, 1739._ - _Rev. Sir_, - -JUST now I received your kind letter, and am endeavouring to catch a -few moments to answer it. I thank you for your encouraging hints. O! -dear Sir, continue to exhort, and provoke me to love and to good works, -that I may with patience run the race that is set before me. Hitherto -my dear Master magnifies his strength in my weakness. Ever since -he honoured me to suffer a little reproach for his name’s sake, at -_Basingstoke_, he has caused me to rejoice with exceeding great joy. -My spirit was stirred within me. Methinks I could willingly have died -to have borne my testimony against the lying vanities, and devilish -entertainments of this generation. By the help of my Master, I will -go on and attack the devil in his strongest holds. O pray, dear Sir, -that my zeal may be always tempered with true christian prudence. It -would grieve me, should I bring sufferings causelessly upon myself. -A trying time, perhaps, is at hand. O that I may be found faithful! -If providence permits, I will perform my promise. I am blind, I am a -child, I know nothing. I only desire the whole will of GOD may be done, -in, by, and upon, dear Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer - in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LV. - - _London, July 26, 1739._ - _Sir_, - -I Received your kind letter, but must beg to be excused from -dissuading your son to go with ――――. The employment in which he is -engaged will, in the end, if faithfully improved, tend much to GOD’s -glory and his own good. He now sits by me; I read over your letter to -him, and he continues as resolute as ever. The being _disinherited_ -does not terrify him at all. He has a more abiding inheritance, and is -willing naked to follow a naked CHRIST.――Dear Sir, let me advise you -to do nothing rashly. If you can pray for a blessing on your will when -you are about to disinherit your son, I shall wonder. Have a little -patience, and then you will find that your son is about to act wisely. -If I thought otherwise, no one would be more forward to dissuade him, -than, Sir, - - Your very humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LVI. - - _London, July 31, 1739._ - -OH that my head was water and my eyes fountains of tears, that I might -weep over my dear Mr. ――――. What? And has my familiar friend, who has -been dear to me as my own soul, has he taken part with, and gone back -to the enemy? Surely it cannot be!――And yet I must believe it.――But -if any one had told my dear friend, that he would have behaved thus, -would he not have cried out, “Is thy servant a dog that he should -do this?” Oh, my dear friend, I am in pain for you! Alas! who hath -bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth? You did run well; -who, or what hath hindered you? Not a fear of man, I hope; not a -desire of that praise, that cometh of man. I know the time when my -dear friend’s heart stood stedfast. I know the time when my dear -friend was willing to be accounted a fool for CHRIST’s sake, and chose -rather to suffer affliction with the people of GOD, than to enjoy the -pleasures of sin, of false politeness, for a season. And why should I -despair of my dear friend now? No, I know JESUS CHRIST was set for the -falling and rising again of many in _Israel_. Our LORD, I trust, has -prayed for you, and I hope your faith will not totally fail. Forgive -me, I must stop and sigh: GOD forbid I should be called, at the great -day, to say, that my dear Mr. ―――― put his hand to the plough and -turned back unto perdition. Good GOD! the thought strikes me as though -a dart was shot through my liver. Return, return. My dear friend, I -cannot part from you for ever. Do not speak peace to your soul, when -there is no peace. Do not turn factor for the devil. Do not prejudice -or hurt my brother, and thereby add to the grief you have already -occasioned. - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LVII. - - _Bristol, July 31, 1739._ - _My dear Brother_, - -BLESSED be GOD for bringing you in safety home.――He is a GOD hearing -prayer. May he sanctify our meeting. I hope to see you here this week. -I shall set out for _Deal_ on _Monday_.――I long to hear how the soul -of my dear brother prospers.――I long to embrace you in these unworthy -arms.――Methinks I could now sing my nunc dimittis with pleasure, if my -eyes could see my dear brother’s salvation. I hope you have conversed -with Mr. _Wesley_. It will require some degree of boldness to own -either of us before men. GOD vouchsafes to honour us: No wonder our -names are cast out as evil.――Dear Mr. ――――, I hear, is staggered with -the fear of man.――Sister, I trust, is in a good way. When shall I see -you? Come, Oh come and warm my heart, by telling me what GOD hath done -for your soul. Eternity will be too short to praise him for what he -has done for - - Your affectionate brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LVIII. - - _London, August 3, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THIS morning I received yours, and though I leave _London_ this -evening, yet I cannot but snatch a few moments to send you an answer. -I love all that love our LORD JESUS CHRIST. The spirit of CHRIST, with -me is the center. I love the man, and you in particular, though in all -things he may not follow with me. I rejoice there is a revival of true -religion in _Scotland_. The spirit of GOD is moving on the faces of -thousands of souls in _England_. The word runs very swift, and satan -falls like lightning from heaven. GOD hath sent me into the highways -and hedges, to compel poor sinners to come in; many are left to water, -what GOD hath been pleased to plant; I doubt not of his giving a great -increase. But I am a child, I cannot speak, yet GOD will magnify his -free grace. GOD will work, and all oppositions must forward, but not -hinder it.――Inclosed I have sent you a sermon just published.――You may -judge of my principles from that. The picture I highly honour.――May -I follow them as they follow CHRIST. I am no friend to sinless -perfection.――I believe the being (though not the dominion) of sin -remains in the hearts of the greatest believers.――Time and business -will not give me leave to enlarge.――Besides, I am but a novice in -the school of CHRIST; and therefore most earnestly beg your prayers, -that I may grow in the knowledge of our common LORD. At his call, -I am now going abroad, and expect to suffer many things ere I return -home.――Reverend and dear Sir, I wish you much success in the name of -the LORD, and am - - Your brother and servant in the best bonds, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LIX. - - _London, August 3, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Cannot leave _London_ without answering your last letter. I am -convinced that GOD calls me now to _Georgia_, and so are our friends. -GOD’s ways are like the great deep.――He will go a way by himself. -Exitus acta probat. The prophecy you mention, I dare not apply to -myself. What am I, that GOD should so delight to honour me? However, -I believe the LORD will work a great work upon the earth. Whatever -instruments he shall make use of in effecting it, I care not. If -CHRIST be preached, if my dear LORD be glorified, I rejoice; yea, and -will rejoice. I wish all the LORD’s servants were prophets. Oh, dear -Sir, my heart is now melted down with a sense of the divine love! -Never was a greater instance of GOD’s free grace in CHRIST. What am I, -O LORD, that thou shouldest delight to honour me? Even so, Father, for -so it seemeth good in thy sight! Dear Sir, I could now write all day; -but other business demands my attendance.――Yet a little while, and we -shall sit down in the kingdom of GOD for ever. Dear Sir adieu. Oh give -thanks, give thanks, and pray for - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LX. - - _Blendon, August 6, 1739._ - -AND would not dear Mr. ―――― stay for my last letter? What, is he -retired into the country to learn how to forget his GOD? Is he got -into favour with the polite world? Are not these sad symptoms, that -my dearest Mr. ―――― is falling away a-pace? He runned into one extreme -lately, and now satan is driving him into another. Did not I forwarn -you of this? O my dear friend, my brother, return to your first -love, otherwise you will find the spirit of GOD deserting you more -and more every day. Nemo repente fuit turpissimus. But I can say -no more.――Perhaps I am troublesome. However, give me leave to weep. -Permit me to pray for you. Though you are now dead comparatively, yet, -I trust, you will be alive. Though now seemingly lost, yet surely you -shall be found again. GOD only knows how such news would rejoice the -heart of, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend in the best bonds, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXI. - - _――――, August 7, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Thank you most heartily for your last: Had you been more particular, -I should have thanked you still more. May GOD reward you for watching -over my soul! Pride and selfishness are the tempers of the devil. By -the help of my GOD I will never rest till my Master gives me power -to overcome them. It is difficult, I believe, to go through the fiery -trial of popularity and applause untainted. Blessed be GOD, I am now -sweetly retired. O help me, my dear Sir, by your prayers, as well as -your advice, and believe me desirous to subscribe myself, - - Your’s most affectionately in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXII. - - _On board the Elizabeth, Gravesend, August 14, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -YOUR kind letter gave me much satisfaction. It breathed the language -of one, who is a Boanerges in the church of GOD. Excess of business -prevented my answering it sooner. As I am now retired from a public -life, I trust I shall have time to try my heart and search out my -spirit. Forget me not, dear Sir, when you are praying for all those, -who travel by land and by water, when storms and winds are blowing -over me. I hope I shall always carry you, and others of my dear -friends in _Wales_, upon my heart, whenever I go in and out before the -LORD. It would rejoice my soul to hear from you, when abroad. Exhort -me, oh exhort me, to be valiant for the truth. Bid, oh bid me, dear -Sir, to be mindful of a dying and risen JESUS.――Bid me to remember the -riches of his free grace in pulling me as a brand out of the fire, and -exhort me to lay down my life for his sake.――Brother _Harris_, I find, -has come off triumphantly.――The hour of suffering is not yet come. GOD -prepare us all for it! I expect to suffer for my blessed master’s name -sake. But, wherefore do I fear? My master will pray for me.――Dear Sir, -adieu. I know you not in person. Perhaps I may never see your face in -the flesh. However, I shall see you in heaven, and then you shall see -how sincerely I now subscribe myself, - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXIII. - - _On board the Elizabeth, Gravesend, August 14, 1739._ - _Dear Madam_, - -I Cannot think of your favours, and yet forbear writing a letter of -thanks. I cannot think of your parting tears, and not inform you, how -sincerely I pray GOD to comfort and refresh your soul.――Oh Madam, your -kindness to such a dead dog as I am, quite surprizes me. How much more -ought you and I, and all mankind, to adore the unspeakable goodness -of our heavenly Father, who has so loved the world, as to give his -only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, -but have everlasting life. Dear Madam, never rest till you have a -lively faith in CHRIST JESUS. GOD has put into your heart good desires -after it. Continue instant in prayer; apply to JESUS CHRIST, as a -poor sinner, and yet a little while, and dear Mrs. ―――― shall be a -christian indeed. Hasten O LORD, that blessed time. Oh let thy kingdom -come, in full power, into this thy handmaiden’s heart! Innumerable -temptations surround you, to make you take up your rest here. But, I -hope, _Madam_, you will be upon your guard, and let nothing be thought -of, or done, by you, which may any way tend to indulge the lust of the -eye and the pride of life. Simplicity is the very spirit of the gospel; -therefore, the more we learn CHRIST, the more regardless we shall -be of worldly vanities. GOD of his infinite mercy make you a widow -indeed! You see, Madam, how freely I have wrote to you. It is because -I value your welfare.――It is the best return that can be made, for all -favours conferred on, Madam, - - Your most obliged friend and servant in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXIV. - - _On board the Elizabeth, Gravesend, August 14, 1739._ - _Dear Madam_, - -YOUR affectionate parting, and the tears I observed you to shed, even -when I was at a distance from you, made me almost ready to cry out -“What mean you to weep and to break my heart?” Oh may our dear LORD -put your tears into his bottle, and reward you a thousand fold for all -the kindnesses you have shewn to me! Indeed I am less than the least -of his servants. But yet, so loving is my dear Master, that he will -not let a cup of cold water given in his name, to pass by unobserved -or unrewarded. When partaking of your bounty of flour, I hope I shall -pray that you and your’s may eat bread in the kingdom of GOD. You -have all good desires; I hope you are not far from the kingdom of -GOD.――Oh let there not be any thing lacking. Give GOD your hearts, -your whole hearts; let JESUS CHRIST’s be your whole wisdom, your -whole righteousness; and then he will be your whole sanctification -and eternal redemption. I write this from my floating habitation, to -assure you how sincerely I am - - Your most obliged friend and affectionate humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXV. - - _On board the Elizabeth, August 14, 1739._ - _My dear Mr. ――――_, - -AT length we are embarked; our ship is now going to the _Downs_.――Yet -a little while, and, GOD willing, I shall see you once more in the -flesh. My family consists of more than twelve, besides two children; -I hope all are desirous to know CHRIST. GOD strengthens me mightily -in the inner man. The sermon I have sent you is one of my extempore -sermons.――The journal will acquaint you with particulars.――My brother, -the captain, hath been with me this last week.――If he leaves off -disputing, and will come to CHRIST as a poor lost sinner, he will do -well.――The bishop of _London_ has lately wrote against me; I trust GOD -hath assisted me in writing an answer.――It is now in the press.――All -the self-righteous are up in arms.――My Master makes me more than a -conqueror through his love. Mr. ―――― has about forty societies in -_Yorkshire_. Both the Mr. _Wesley_’s go on well.――Go where you will, -religion (either for or against it) is the talk.――Probably a suffering -time will come. You will not be ashamed of me, though I should be a -prisoner. Perhaps you will be put to the trial: But how does my dear -friend’s heart? Have you found CHRIST? Does he live in you, so as to -be the alpha and omega, the beginning and end of all your actions? -Are you enlightened to see the exceeding great riches and fulness of -his grace? Oh how will it rejoice my soul to see you a proficient in -the school of CHRIST? How will it delight me to see your little flock -pressing towards the mark.――Soon after this reaches _Georgia_, I hope -to see you.――My stay will be as short as possible at _Philadelphia_. -I must not delay coming to my dear, though poor charge.――I expect -to find _Savannah_ almost desolate; but our extremity is GOD’s -opportunity. I believe it will lift up its drooping head.――For the -present, my dear friend, farewell. - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXVI. - - _On board the Elizabeth going to the Downs, August 15, 1739._ - _My dear Brother_, - -THE agony I was in at your departure, and the many strong cryings and -tears which I offered up to GOD afterwards, plainly shew, that I love -you in sincerity and truth. Though I am now about to launch into the -great deep, yet I must write you a parting line. I cannot but think -you will come to CHRIST in earnest. GOD has most remarkably met you -by his providence.――His spirit has been striving with you, and I doubt -not but it will get the victory over your carnal reasonings, and the -rebellion of a depraved heart. But do not, my dear brother, I beseech -you, dispute against your own happiness.――Be not unwilling to confess -that you are not yet a christian. Remember what our LORD hath said: -“Whosoever receiveth not the kingdom of GOD, as a little child, -shall in no-wise enter therein.”――I beseech you, by the mercies of -GOD in CHRIST JESUS our LORD, to leave off _disputing_. You have -been, I think, frequently convinced; but nature, I find, has as -frequently interposed, and persuaded you that you had gone far -enough already.――But does not my dear brother find, that he yet lacks -something? Have not his tempers and corruptions; nay, hath not sin -itself dominion over him? Are his affections weaned from the world? -Does he feel himself a poor lost sinner? Is he willing the LORD JESUS -should be his whole righteousness? Is he convinced of the freeness, -as well as of the riches of his grace? You see, my dear brother, -how freely I deal with you. It is because I love you with a peculiar -love.――Never did my heart exult at the sight of any relation, as at -the sight of you; Surely GOD intends to give me my dear brother. He -is already an almost; hasten, O LORD, that blessed time, when he shall -be an altogether christian, and let thy kingdom, with full power, come -into my dear brother’s heart!――How shall I say farewell? If you have -opportunity, pray write to - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXVII. - - _On board the Elizabeth going to the Downs, August 16, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Thank GOD for his goodness to brother _Howell Harris_. I thank -you for informing me of it. The storm is diverted for a while, but I -expect it to break upon my head one time or another. GOD has, for a -while, prepared me a place of refuge in the ship, from whence I write -this. Oh beseech him, that I may improve the retirement by searching -out my spirit. I have almost forgot, that I was in the world. My -family on board is quite settled, and we live and love like christians. -GOD only knows where you and I shall meet again; whether in time -or eternity. However, this we know, that both must be tried to the -uttermost. Inward and outward afflictions await us, and all the -children of GOD. I am now reading the book of martyrs. They make me -blush to think how little I suffer for CHRIST’s sake. They warm my -heart, and make me think the time long till I am called to resist -even unto blood: But I fear the treachery of this heart of mine. Dear -Mr. ――――, to your past, add one more favour, “pray that I may be found -faithful.” I trust I shall have a sweet remembrance of you and my -other dear friends, when I go in and out before the LORD. Salute them -most affectionately. Exhort them, oh exhort them to continue in the -grace of GOD; and forget not to write to, dear Mr. ――――, - - Yours most affectionately in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXVIII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._¹ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THOUGH business prevents my corresponding with you so frequently as -I did when in _England_, yet what can hinder me now, but a want of -gratitude and love? Accept then, dear Sir, my sincere, though late -thanks, for all favours conferred upon me, and assure yourself, I -remember both you and your beloved people at the throne of grace. -Nothing will rejoice me more than to hear, that the good pleasure of -the LORD prospers in your hand. Oh dear Sir, what a gracious Master do -we serve! His loving-kindness still prevents, accompanies, and follows -me. He has not given me over unto death, but is still pleased to dig -and dung round me, and not cut me down as a cumberer of the ground. I -long to be purged, dear Sir, that I may bring forth more fruit. Since -my retirement from the world, I have seen more and more how full I am -of corruption. Nothing could possibly support my soul under the many -agonies which oppressed me, when on board, but a consideration of -the freeness, eternity, and unchangeableness of GOD’s love to me, the -chief of sinners.――In about a twelvemonth, probably, I shall return -again to my native country. Satan no doubt will endeavour to stir up -all his forces against me. By the help of my GOD, I will once more -come forth with my sling and my stone.――I shall wait with impatience -to hear how the work goes on in my absence. I trust, GOD, by this time, -has sent forth more labourers into his harvest. I heartily wish all -the LORD’s servants were prophets. I verily believe, the right-hand -of the LORD will not only have the pre-eminence, but also bring -mighty things to pass. O how do I long, dear Sir, to see bigotry and -party-zeal taken away, and all the LORD’s servants more knit together. -Pray, my due respects to all that are so kind as to enquire after me. -Exhort them to pray and give thanks for, - - Your unworthy friend, brother, and servant - in our dear LORD’s vineyard, - - _G. W._ - - ¹ Many of the letters of this date were written on ship-board - during the passage, but dated when sent off from _Philadelphia_. - - - LETTER LXIX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -MAN appoints, but GOD disappoints. No doubt it was best, that I should -not see your answer to the bishop’s letter before I left _England_. I -hope it was wrote with the meekness and gentleness of CHRIST, and then -no doubt GOD will give his blessing. Oh, dear Sir, how is the glory -departed from _Israel_! In what dregs of time are we born? Boasting -of our orthodoxy and primitive purity, and yet alas! but ―――― is not -this enough, dear Sir, to excite our zeal even till it do eat us up? -Wherefore hath GOD called us by his free grace, and made a difference -between us and others, but that we should stand up in defence of his -injured honour? Your friend, Mr. ――――, has told me how plentifully you -once tasted of the good word of life, and felt the powers of the world -to come. Oh that the divine spark may again kindle in the heart till -it become a flame of fire! Nothing will so much enforce your arguments -as a life exactly conformable to the holy JESUS.――When with you last, -I thought you spoke too favourable of horse-races, and such things. -But what diversion ought a christian or a clergyman to know or speak -of, but that of doing good? Many who are right in their principles, -are worse than I could wish in their practice. Oh for a revival of -true and undefiled religion in all sects whatsoever! I long to see a -catholic spirit over-spread the world; may GOD vouchsafe to make me an -instrument of promoting it! Methinks, I care not what I do or suffer, -so that I may see my LORD’s kingdom come with power. But I know not -my own weakness, till I am tried. Dear Sir, pray for me, that I may -be found faithful in an hour of temptation. I expect to be tried to -the uttermost, and to hear, that many are become my enemies, who once -would, as it were, have plucked out their eyes for me. It is necessary -that such offences should come; otherwise, how can I know that I am, -what I desire to be, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend and true brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Brethren, and worthy fellow-labourers in CHRIST_, - -THOUGH I know none of you in person, yet, from the time I heard -of your faith and love towards our dear LORD JESUS, I have been -acquainted with you in spirit, and have constantly mentioned you in my -poor prayers. The good pleasure of the LORD, I find, prospers in your -hands; and I pray GOD increase you more and more, both you and your -children. _Scotland_, like _England_, hath been so much settled upon -it’s lees for some time, that I fear our late days may properly be -called the midnight of the church. Blessed be GOD, the Father of our -LORD JESUS CHRIST, who hath sent forth many of his servants with this -cry, “Behold the bridegroom cometh.” Thousands obey the call, and are -trimming their spiritual lamps, in order to go forth to meet him. I -cannot but think a winnowing time will come after this in-gathering of -souls. O that we may suffer only as christians, and then the spirit of -CHRIST and of glory will rest upon us. In patience possess your souls, -and I will leave my cause to GOD. You, my reverend Brethren, I am -persuaded, are no otherwise minded; may we go on then in the power, -and under the guidance of the LORD of HOSTS. The eternal GOD will be -your perpetual refuge. He that employs, will protect; as your day is, -so shall your strength be. Let not our dear LORD’s lambs perish for -lack of knowledge. “Give ye, give ye them to eat,” methinks, is the -endearing, constraining command of the great Shepherd and Bishop of -souls. And O that a due obedience may be paid to it by me, your -unworthy brother. But I blush almost, when I stile myself your brother; -for I am a child, and all of you are fathers. Oh, strive together with -me in your prayers, that the divine strength may be still magnified -in my weakness. You will intreat the LORD to bless the orphan-house. -I have reason to think, GOD will bring great good out of it. Oh that -I may be prepared for future favours! Oh that pride and self-love may -thoroughly be subdued! Brethren, I beseech you by the mercies of GOD -in CHRIST JESUS, to pray for me, whilst winds and storms are blowing -over me. You are not forgotten by him, who, though the most unworthy -of his LORD’s servants, desires to subscribe himself, - - Your affectionate brother, and fellow-pilgrim - and labourer in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Friend_, - -BECAUSE I will not forget you, I begin to write before we get on shore. -How is dear Mr. ――――’s heart? Has he yet recovered his first love? And -is that prophecy, “This child is set for the falling and rising again -of many in _Israel_,” as yet fulfilled in him. I cannot but think a -good work was once wrought upon your soul. I cannot but think, GOD -will yet fulfil his whole will in you. But let not my dear friend -linger any longer. If there is mercy with GOD, let him be feared, not -disobeyed. If he has promised to heal our backslidings, and love us -freely, let his goodness lead us to repentance. Prosperity hath been a -snare to you; every day I see the excellency of that part of _Agur_’s, -prayer, “Give me not riches, lest I be full and deny thee, and say, -who is the LORD.” And that petition in our liturgy, “In all time of -our wealth, good LORD deliver us.” I always take particular notice of -it. I believe you will not be at all richer this year, than you was -the last.――For as riches increase, our wants increase with them.――I -write not this to have you desert your station, but to excite a holy -jealousy in your heart.――Oh, what would I give to see my dear friend, -as formerly, “Fervent in spirit, serving the LORD.” If GOD sends -me to _England_ again, I shall try my friends. However that be, I -am persuaded, that suffering for righteousness sake, is the best, -the greatest preferment in the church of CHRIST. But how does your -little――I would not willingly say, your great idol. Pray accept a -quarto bible for him. Oh, my friend, give him up to GOD, and do not -provoke him, by over-fondness and too great indulgence, to take him -from you. The little lambs on board improve bravely; they bear the -voyage best of all. They are as lusty as eagles: GOD has dealt most -gently with us. I hope I may say, the church in my house salute you -and your wife.――I do not forget her; may she never rest till she comes -into the glorious liberty of the children of GOD! It is a blessed -thing, my dear friend, to be the LORD’s freeman. My heart is full; I -repent I have not allowed more paper. My dear Sir, excuse and pray for - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Sister in CHRIST_, - -WANT of time, not want of respect, has prevented my answering your -kind letters. I esteem you highly for CHRIST’s sake. I believe you -to be one whom GOD has chosen out of the world, and hath sealed to -the day of redemption. Nothing, therefore, shall pluck you out of -his hands. Was it not for this promise, my soul would be exceeding -sorrowful at the prospect of what I may undergo. The innumerable -temptations that attend a popular life, sometimes make me think it -would be best for me to withdraw. But then I consider, that He, who -delivered _Daniel_ out of the den of lions, and the three children out -of the fiery furnace, is able and willing to deliver me also out of -the fiery furnace of popularity and applause, and from the fury of -those, who, for preaching CHRIST, and him crucified, are my inveterate -enemies. In his strength therefore, and at his command, whenever his -providence shall call, I will venture out again. As yet my trials have -been nothing. Hereafter a winnowing time may come; then we shall see, -who is on the LORD’s side, and who dare to confess CHRIST before men. -None but those who wholly rely on the Redeemer’s righteousness, and -are truly born again of GOD. Oh pray, that I may be found faithful. -Satan hath been very busy with me since I saw you, but I trust the -LORD, by these inward trials, will purge me, that I may bring forth -more fruit. Cease not to pray, that this may be the happy case of, - - Your servant in the gospel, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXIII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -YOU cannot well conceive how constantly you have been upon my heart, -since I saw you. I think there has been a sympathy between your heart -and mine. I have often pitied my dying friend, and as often prayed, -that he may leave a word for GOD. I say, prayed, for GOD alone can -remove the load.――I know too well what such temptations are, to think -they may be overcome by our own strength. But, my dear Friend, you -and I, weak as we are, can do all things through CHRIST strengthening -us.――Do you believe on the Son of GOD? All things are possible to him -that believeth. If the devil therefore continues his assaults, resist -him, stedfast in the faith. Resist him, my dear Friend, and he will -flee from you; rather suffer any thing, than be unequally yoked with -an unbeliever. If you cannot overcome where you are, absence, perhaps, -may cure you. Methinks, I would do and suffer any thing, rather than -dear Mr. ―――― should be led away.――My companions in travel have an -equal respect for you. We have often joined in prayer for you, when -eating your cake. May GOD reward you for that, and all your other kind -respects and favours conferred on, dear Mr. ――――, - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXIV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Madam_, - -I Should think myself highly ungrateful, did I not take all -opportunities of acknowledging the many kindnesses I have received -at your hands. Your last presents have been exceeding serviceable -on board the ship, and every time we have tasted your bounty, I have -endeavoured to dart up a short ejaculation for our kind benefactress. -You cannot conceive, _dear Madam_, how loving the LORD has dealt -with us; he has given us all things richly to enjoy, and comforted -us on every side. Indeed sometimes he has been pleased to withdraw -from me, and to permit satan to send me a thorn in the flesh.――But -that was only to shew me my vileness, and to prepare me for further -manifestations of his goodness to my soul. Our voyage though long has -not been tedious or burdensome. My soul wants retirement.――I dread -coming out into the world again. I am confident, dear Madam, that -you will pray for me, that I may be kept unspotted from it. Oh what a -blessed Master do we serve! His rod as well as staff comforts the soul. -His corrections are all loving, and are only intended to make us truly -great. Though you seemed to doubt, yet I hope to see you once more -before you go hence. I cannot say I expect liberty long, if I speak -boldly the truth as I ought to speak.――Indeed there is no being a true -christian, and yet holding with the world, so much as some may imagine. -JESUS CHRIST calls us to simplicity. I have often thought, dear Madam, -that you did not see through the world enough. Numbers are accounted -christians, who have only a name to live. I pray GOD to open all our -eyes, that we may see every thing clearly. A time of persecution will -show who are _Israelites_ indeed, and who outside professors.――I hope, -Madam, that, when tried, you will come forth as gold purified seven -times in the fire. I only fear for, and suspect myself.――The LORD my -righteousness will uphold me. Dear Madam, GOD only knows with what -gratitude I desire to subscribe myself - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. ――――_, - -WHEN last abroad, I could not write to you for want of knowing your -name. Blessed be GOD we have since been better acquainted, and I now -know your name and place of abode. May the GOD, whom I desire to serve, -richly reward you for receiving me into your house. You were one of -my most constant hearers; may you be my joy and crown of rejoicing -in the day of the LORD JESUS. I trust ere now, you have felt, that -the kingdom of GOD does not consist in word, but in power. I know that -Mrs. ―――― would have me deal plainly with her soul; therefore I shall -not scruple to tell her, how I have sometimes thought she was not yet -clearly enough convinced of sin, and of the perfect righteousness -wrought out for, and to be imputed to her, by the LORD JESUS CHRIST, -through faith in his blood.――Since I have been on shipboard, blessed -be GOD, his name has made my soul to smart, and caused me to see more -of my own wretchedness. Oh, Mrs. ――――, you know not, neither do I -myself know as yet, what a mystery of iniquity is hid even in a heart -timely renewed. I saw a little of it the other day; and had I not -known my Redeemer liveth, and that he ever liveth to make intercession -for me, I must have sunk into despair: - - _But there’s a voice of sovereign grace - Sounds from the sacred word; - Here ye despairing sinners come, - And trust upon the LORD._ - -May GOD of his infinite mercy so work upon you, that, at at the last -day, you may be found having on the wedding-garment! Was I to study -to eternity, I could wish you nothing better. May the ever-blessed GOD -say Amen to it. I hope your little daughters are in good health. Dear -Mrs. ――――, exhort them to renounce the lust of the eye and the pride -of life, and to abstain from all appearance of evil. I have a sincere -concern for you and yours, and with all possible thanks for your kind -presents and affection, I subscribe myself - - Your sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXVI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. ――――_, - -AS I do not forget to pray for, so I do not forget to write to you, -to make a proper acknowledgment of your and your husband’s love; -exhorting you to save yourselves from this untoward generation. Before -I left _London_, I perceived GOD was working upon your soul. I trust -the same GOD, since my departure, has carried it on, and that you are -convinced of the sin of unbelief. Oh dear Mrs. ――――, it is a difficult -thing to believe aright; it can only be given from above. I know -many of my acquaintance, who love to hear me talk and preach, and -who receive me gladly into their houses; but alas! I fear they are -self-righteous, and were never yet truly convinced of sin. They have -good desires, and therefore flatter themselves, that they are good -christians: But I fear many of them are only foolish virgins. I would -not have dear Mrs. ―――― or her husband of this number. If she hath -followed on to know the LORD, I am persuaded ere now, she is in some -measure brought out of herself, and taught of GOD to rely only on -JESUS CHRIST for wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. -If thus minded, your soul is at peace with GOD, itself, and the world. -If not, let her ask and it shall be given her, let her seek and she -shall find, let her knock and a door of mercy shall be opened unto -her.――All things are possible to him that believeth――Oh dear Mrs. ――――, -my heart is inlarged towards you; I long for your salvation: press on -and faint not. Whenever I come, I shall expect to suffer. But though -we die for CHRIST, oh let us pray that we may not deny him in any wise. -Nothing but the free almighty grace of GOD can uphold, - - Your sincere friend in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXVII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and Dear Sir_, - -I Think I may say of you, as the _Samaritans_ did upon another -occasion, I believe you to be a true lover of our dear LORD JESUS. -Not merely because my brother told me so, but because I have it under -his own hand. Your last kind letter has knit my heart most closely to -you. I love those that thunder out the word. The christian world is -in a deep sleep. Nothing but a loud voice can awaken them out of it. I -pray GOD to strengthen you more and more, and cause you to triumph in -every place. Though absent in body, I am present with you in spirit. -It would rejoice me to hear of your success in the LORD. In about a -twelvemonth I purpose, GOD willing, to return to _England_; who knows -but then I may see you face to face, and have some spiritual gift -imparted to my soul? I long to die to myself, and to be alive unto GOD. -Methinks I would be always upon the wing; but alas! I have a body of -sin, which at times makes me cry out, “who shall deliver me?” I thank -GOD, our LORD JESUS CHRIST will deliver. But I never expect intire -freedom, till I bow down my head, and give up the ghost. Every fresh -employ, I find brings with it fresh temptations. GOD always humbles -before he exalts me. Sometimes I speak and write freely, at other -times I am comparatively barren; one while on the mount, another while -overshadowed with a cloud; but blessed be GOD, at all times at peace -with him, and assured that my sins are forgiven. I want to leap my -seventy years; I long to be dissolved, and to be with CHRIST. But I -must be made perfect by sufferings. I expect no other preferment. And -you no doubt will have your share. This is our comfort, if we suffer -we shall also reign with CHRIST; hasten on, O LORD, that blessed time, -when dear Mr. ―――― shall sit down at thy right hand, with all the -spirits of just men made perfect in heaven! where I trust a seat, -though of the lowest class, is prepared for - - Your unworthy friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXVIII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and Dear Sir_, - -SINCE I saw you last, you cannot well tell with what pleasure I have -reflected on the uncommon power that frequently attended the word at -_Bexley_. It was to me a sign of GOD’s good will, both to ministers -and people. The former I was convinced of, before I left _England_. -The last sermon I heard you preach, gave me much satisfaction. I hope -ere now you are convinced of the latter also, and have seen some good -effects amongst your parishioners. However, this I am assured of, we -shall all in due time reap the fruit of our labours, if we faint not. -Let me therefore exhort you, by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS, -to continue unwearied in well doing. You have seen the afflictions of -GOD’s spiritual _Israel_. “Do and live,” is most they hear. But what -is this, but requiring them to make bricks without straw? Arise, arise, -then, my dear Mr. ――――; proclaim the LORD to be their righteousness. -The everlasting I AM now sends you forth: say not they will disbelieve -my report, for GOD seems to have given his people the hearing ear -and obedient heart. Fear not the face of man, for the LORD, if you go -out in his strength, shall be with you, whithersoever you go. I hope -my dear and honoured friend ere now hath prevented my exhortations. -Methinks I see him, with all boldness declaring the whole counsel of -GOD, and the attentive people receiving joyfully the gracious words, -which proceed out of his mouth. Go on, my dear brother, go on; may -the LORD bless you more and more, daily adding to the number of your -spiritual children. ―――― I thank you, from my soul, for all favours -conferred on me, and I pray you may always confess our LORD and -his disciples before men. My most sincere respects attend your -help-mate and true yoke-fellow. You are constantly upon my heart. -My next journal will acquaint you how lovingly GOD hath dealt with - - Your most unworthy friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXIX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - -AND how does my dear Mr. _H――――s_? Is he yet commenced a _field -preacher_? I am persuaded my dear friend is under the guidance of -GOD’s spirit, and therefore am convinced he will be directed for the -best. He desires to do his LORD’s will, and shall he not know it? -Undoubtedly he shall. Nay, ere now I trust GOD has pointed out his -way, and he has been upon many a mount stretching out his hands, and -inviting all that are weary and heavy laden to come to JESUS CHRIST. -Oh my dear brother, though you come after me, yet I pray GOD, you may -always be preferred before me. I trust I shall not envy, but rejoice -in my brother’s success. At present, I find I love him in the bowels -of JESUS CHRIST; I am frequently with you in spirit, and shall wait -with impatience till I hear of my dear brother’s progress in the -LORD. Alas! I fear I do not improve my retirement as I ought. GOD has -graciously pleased to conduct me in mercy. The tempter has been busy -with me, and I never before was more deeply wounded for sin. CHRIST’s -love will let nothing pluck us out of his hands. However, let us -constantly watch and pray, that we enter not into temptation. The -spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. In about a twelvemonth, GOD -willing, I think of returning to _England_. I should rejoice, if you -would come and supply my place at _Savannah_. If not, I must resign -the parsonage, and take upon me only the care of the orphans. I intend -bringing up two or three, that are with me, for the ministry: more, -no doubt, will shortly be added to their number. If you could come -and teach them the languages, for an hour or two in the day; we could -serve both the orphan-house and parsonage together. Great things I -trust will come out of _Georgia_. The LORD JESUS direct your spirit, -and if it be his will, send you as a help to, dear Sir, - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -THOUGH but little acquainted with you, yet I write this to assure you, -what a cordial respect I have for you. The love of GOD, which I trust, -through his free grace, is shed abroad in both our hearts, constrains -me to love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. I remember you in my -unworthy prayers, and am persuaded I am not forgotten in your’s. No -one more needs them, whether considered as a private christian, or a -public minister; thousands are waiting for my halting; and I know so -much of the corruption of my own heart, that was GOD to leave me to -myself but one moment, I should with oaths and curses deny my master. -As for my final perseverance, I bless GOD, I have not the least doubt -thereof. The gifts and callings of GOD are without repentance. Whom -he loves, I am persuaded, he loves to the end. But then I fear, lest -being puffed up with abundance of success, I should provoke the LORD -to let me fall into some heinous sin, and thereby give his adversaries -reason to rejoice. A public life is attended with innumerable snares; -and a sense of my unworthiness and unfitness so weighs me down, that I -have often thought it would be best for me to retire. But I know these -are all suggestions of the enemy. Why should I distrust omnipotence? -Having had a legion of devils cast out of my heart by the power of -CHRIST, why should I not tell what he hath done for my soul, for -the encouragement of others. By the help of GOD, I will speak; and -the more satan bids me to hold my peace, the more earnestly will I -proclaim to believing saints, that JESUS the son of _David_ will have -mercy on them; nay, I do not despair of publishing these glad tidings -even at _Wethersfield_. In a little above a twelvemonth, GOD willing, -I intend returning. But ere that time comes, I trust my dear LORD -will purge me, that I may bring forth more fruit.――Satan has not been -wanting to sift me as wheat; but my friend, the friend of all, even -JESUS, has prayed for me, and as yet my faith hath not failed. Oh -had I a thousand lives, my dear LORD JESUS should have them all! For -he is worthy, he hath plucked me as a brand out of the burning, and -is continually comforting me on every side――Read, read, dear Sir, the -account I have sent over to be published of what GOD hath done for -me in the days of my youth, and it will afford more thanksgiving and -praise.――Pray in the behalf of, Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST, as a proof of it, I send -this. I heartily wish I could correspond with you oftener. Your -advice would always be seasonable to me; because you have been a long -time in the school of CHRIST. I am but just now entering the list, -and frequently tremble at the consideration of what I am to do and -suffer.――But when I consider it is for JESUS CHRIST, who has called -me by his free grace into his marvellous light, and has promised to be -with us always, even unto the end of the world, a divine fire kindles -in my heart, and I long to call the lingring battle on. Satan hath -been busy with me since I saw you, especially since my retirement -on ship-board. I have often thought of the folly of those, who go -out of the world to avoid temptation. Satan now buffets me more -than when confined in a ship. I receive this as a great mercy at the -hands of the LORD to keep me in action, and to prepare me for greater -tokens of his love. Before I am exalted, I am always humbled by some -inward trials. They are the most soul-grieving, but they are the most -soul-improving conflicts. My dear friend, I can say from my heart, -“I am the chief of sinners:” I feel myself so wretched and miserable, -so blind and naked in myself, that satan would tempt me to write to -no one. But the LORD hath rebuked him, and after a long tedious hour -of temptation, fills my soul as it were with marrow and fatness, and -maketh my pen the pen of a ready writer. Oh that my mouth was filled -with his praise! As yet, blessed be GOD, in my darkest hours my -evidences have not been in the least clouded. I have been assured my -LORD hath forgiven all my iniquities, transgressions and sins, but I -cannot forgive myself. Oh that I should ever offend against such dying -love! Pray for me, my dear brother, pray for me, that I may never by -pride or sloth tempt the blessed spirit to depart from me. I fear not -falling finally; for GOD I believe chose me in CHRIST before ever the -earth and the world were made, as a vessel of his saving mercy; but I -fear I shall provoke him to let me fall foully, and then how will the -_Philistines_ rejoice? This consideration sometimes makes me to wish -that the LORD would cut off my strength in my journey, and shorten my -days. But wherefore do I fear? Ah me of little faith! You see, my dear -friend, how freely I have unbosomed my heart to you. I cannot call you -my friend, and yet hide from you GOD’s dealings with my soul. Salute -all that love our LORD JESUS in sincerity, and beseech them to pray -for your sincere friend, but the most unprofitable of his dear LORD’s -servants, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and Dear Sir_, - -YOUR kind letters, and kinder visit, have made me frequently to long -for a more close correspondence with you. I find my heart drawn out in -love towards you, and had GOD so ordered it, could have wished to have -perused what you have written in my defence. I pray GOD to confer on -you that reward, which he has promised to give those who confess him -before men. If the gospel continues to run and have such free course, -I must suffer, as well as preach for my dear LORD JESUS. Oh lift up -your hands, _dear Sir_, in the congregations of the faithful, that -I may willingly, (if need be) resist even unto blood; but not with -carnal weapons. Taking the sword out of the hand of GOD’s spirit, -I fear has more than once stopped the progress of the gospel. The -_Quakers_, though wrong in their principles, yet I think have left us -an example of patient suffering, and did more by their bold, unanimous -and persevering testimonies, than if they had taken up all the arms -in the kingdom. In this respect I hope I shall follow them as they -did CHRIST, and though I die for him, yet take up no carnal weapon -in defence of him in any wise. The doctrines of our election, and -free justification in CHRIST JESUS, are daily more and more pressed -upon my heart. They fill my soul with a holy fire, and afford me great -confidence in GOD my Saviour. Surely I am safe, because put into his -almighty arms. Though I may fall, yet I shall not utterly be cast away. -The spirit of the LORD JESUS will hold, and uphold me. That GOD may -every day enrich you more and more with the anointings of this spirit, -is the hearty prayer of, Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most obliged friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXIII. - - _To the brethren in ――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - -TWICE did I purpose to come and see you at ――――, but was prevented -by that all-wise providence, which ordereth all things for the best: -however, though absent, I am not unmindful of you. As a testimony -thereof I send you this. And oh that you may be filled with an holy -fire, and such an ardent zeal for GOD as even to eat you up! Look -round, look round, my brethren, and in imitation of your common LORD, -weep over the desolations of the university wherein you live. Alas! -how is that once faithful city become an harlot! Have pity upon her, -ye that are friends, and whatever treatment you may meet with from an -ungrateful world, endeavour at least to rescue some of her sons out -of that blindness, ignorance, bigotry and formality, into which she is -unhappily fallen. Arise, ye sons of the prophets; shine forth, ye who -are appointed to be the lights of the world. The rulers of this world -will endeavour to put you under bushels; but if your light is of GOD’s -kindling, all the devils in hell shall not be able to extinguish it. -Be not therefore, my brethren, weary of well doing. Have you true -faith? keep it not to yourselves; be willing, as occasion offers, -freely to communicate it to others. How will you be apt to teach -hereafter, unless you begin to teach now? None but those, who are of a -different spirit from that meek man _Moses_, will be offended at you. -All GOD’s people will wish you GOD speed. I am sure I do with all my -heart. And I pray GOD to sanctify your whole spirits, souls and bodies, -and make you vessels meet for our common Master’s use! for none but -those who have felt the spirit themselves, can freely or feelingly -speak of him to others. My dear brethren, forget not to pray for, - - Your affectionate, though weak brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXIV. - - _To ――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Brethren in CHRIST_, - -THE cordial love I bear you, will not suffer me to neglect writing -to you: as GOD has been pleased to bless my ministry to your souls, -so I think it my duty to watch over you for good, and assure you, -constantly you are all upon my heart. Your last letter gave me great -pleasure; but it was too full of acknowledgments, which I by no means -deserve. To him alone, from whom every good and perfect gift cometh, -be all the thanks and glory; I heartily pray GOD, that you may be -burning and shining lights in the midst of a crooked and perverse -generation. Though you are not of the church of _England_, yet -if you are persuaded in your own minds of the truth of the way -wherein you now walk, I leave it. However, whether _Conformists_, or -_Nonconformists_, our main concern should be, to be assured that we -are called and taught of GOD; for none but such are fit to minister -in holy things. Indeed, my dear brethren, it rejoiced me much to see -such dawnings of grace in your souls; only I thought most of you were -bowed down too much with a servile fear of man: but as the love of -the Creator increases, the fear of the creature will daily decrease -in your hearts. _Nicodemus_, who came at first by night to our LORD, -afterwards dared to own him before the whole council in open day. I -pray GOD make you all thus minded. For unless your hearts are free -from worldly hopes and worldly fears, you never will speak boldly, as -you ought to speak. The good old _Puritans_, I believe, never preached -better, than when in danger of being taken to prison as soon as they -had finished their sermon. And however the church may be at peace now, -yet I am persuaded, unless you go forth with the same temper, you will -never preach with the same demonstration of the spirit, and of power. -Study therefore, my brethren, I beseech you by the mercies of GOD in -CHRIST JESUS, study your hearts as well as books――ask yourselves again -and again, whether you would preach for CHRIST, if you were sure to -lay down your lives for so doing? If you fear the displeasure of a man -for doing your duty now, assure yourselves you are not yet thus minded. -But enough of this. I love to hope well of you all. I trust, as you -are enlightened with some degree of knowledge in the mysteries of -godliness, you will henceforth determine not to know any thing but -JESUS CHRIST, and him crucified. This is, and this, the LORD being my -helper, shall be the only study of, my dear brethren, - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and Dear Sir_, - -WHY so long silent during my stay in _England_? why did you not write -me a letter of reproof, and smite me friendly for what you thought -amiss in the discourse between me and a friend at _Bristol_? I should -have taken it kindly at your hands. When I am unwilling to be told of -my faults, dear Sir, correspond with me no more. If I know any thing -of this treacherous heart of mine, I love those most, who are most -faithful to me in this respect: henceforward, dear Sir, I beseech you -by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS, spare me not. I am blind, I am -full of self-pride, and self-love, and yet know it not. Blessed be GOD, -who during my retirement has been pleased to let me see something of -my own vileness. I trust he will never leave nor forsake me, till I -know myself even as I am known. I need not fear the sight of sin, when -I have a perfect everlasting righteousness wrought out for me by that -GOD-man CHRIST JESUS. The riches of his free grace, cause me daily -to triumph over all the temptations of the wicked one, who is very -vigilant, and seeks all occasions to disturb me. The LORD CHRIST is my -helper, and the lifter up of my head. It is good for me to be tempted. -By inward trials I trust my divine master will prepare me for his -future mercies. I am persuaded I shall yet see great things, and be -called to suffer for his name sake. Through much tribulation, I must -enter into glory. Lift up your hands, dear Sir, when praying at the -sanctuary, in my behalf; intreat the same favour of the elect lady. As -I am enabled, it shall be returned; and, GOD willing, when I come next -to _England_, you may expect a visit from, dear and reverend Sir, - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXVI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My Rev. and very dear Brother_, - -EVER ♦since I was favoured with your last most endearing letter, -you have been upon my heart more and more. As I wish all the LORD’s -servants were prophets, so it gives me uncommon pleasure, when the -LORD raises up one of our own church. Believe me, dear Sir, when I -look upon her desolations, I can scarce forbear weeping over her. -But blessed be GOD, who has been pleas’d to visit her in this our -day. Henceforward, I trust she will be a joyful mother of spiritual -children. Many of late, under GOD, have been begotten by some of her -sons through the gospel, amongst whom I may reckon ――――: He has been -I believe, and trust will still be the ghostly father of many souls. -May he increase with all the increase of GOD, and appear before -his redeemer at the last day, saying, “Behold me, O LORD, and the -children which thou hast given me.” Oh dear Sir, words cannot express -how affectionately I desire to esteem and love you. None but the -all-seeing GOD knows how earnestly I pray and desire to labour for the -prosperity of _Jerusalem_. Had we a thousand hands and tongues, there -is employment enough for them all: people are every where ready to -perish for lack of knowledge. As the LORD has been pleased to reveal -his dear Son in us, Oh let us stir up that gift of GOD, and with all -boldness preach him to others. Freely we have received, freely let -us give; what CHRIST tells us by his spirit in our closets, that let -us proclaim on the house top. He who sends, will protect us. All the -devils in hell shall not hurt us, till we have finished our testimony. -And then, if we should seal it with imprisonment or death, well will -it be with us, and happy shall we be evermore! But the proof of our -sincerity, will be when we come to the trial. I fear for no one so -much as myself. Dear Sir, pray that you never may have reason to be -ashamed of the - - Most unprofitable of our LORD’s servants, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ removed duplicate word ‘since’ - - - LETTER LXXXVII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -I Hope dear brother ―――― hath satisfied you about the queries in your -last. I trust you are not angry with me for being so long silent. -Excess of business was the cause. I write you this, my dear brother, -to assure you I have not forgotten you. No, you are upon my heart; I -pray for your prosperity both in body and soul, and hope ere we die to -take another tour with you round _Wales_. GOD has dealt most lovingly -with us on ship-board. We had very fair weather most part of our way. -Both the good and bad spirit have been with us in the ship. The one to -tempt and terrify, the other to support and comfort. I need not tell -you which has prevailed. Who shall stand before the spirit of JESUS -CHRIST? I have had great intimations from above concerning _Georgia_. -Who knows but we may have a college of pious youths at Savannah? I -do not despair thereof. _Professor Franks_’s undertaking in Germany -has been much pressed upon my heart. I really believe that my present -undertaking will succeed. My dear brother, call down a blessing by -your prayers. The LORD will hear those who put their trust in his -mercy through CHRIST. You see, you know, how many would rejoice -at, and do wait for my halting. Beseech the LORD that they may be -disappointed of their hope; intreat the people of _Wales_ to join -with you. I love them most tenderly. I hope, at my return, to see -them grown in grace. I pray GOD so to improve my retirement, that -my progress may be made known unto them all. Salute them most -affectionately in my name, and exhort them to continue instant in -prayer and thanksgivings for, dear and honoured Sir, - - Your fellow pilgrim and labourer in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXVIII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear brother in CHRIST_, - -AS there has been joy in heaven at your conversion, so I can assure -you there has been on earth. I, and my friends, have not failed to -give thanks, that you our brother was dead, but is alive again; was -lost, but is found. Oh blessed be GOD for calling you at the eleventh -hour. Doth not this display the riches of his free grace; and ought -it not to fill you with his praise all the day long? I wonder not that -you are already become a fool for CHRIST’s sake. All that will live -godly in him must suffer persecution. But fear not man. The LORD OF -HOSTS shall be with you; the strength of that GOD who hath called -you shall be your refuge. As you have not long to live in this world, -Satan, no doubt, will rage most horribly against you. Watch and pray -that you enter not into temptation. Your case, GOD willing, I intend -to publish in my next journal. It is good to keep close the secrets of -a king, but it is honourable to speak of the works of the LORD. That -GOD may carry on and finish the good work begun in your soul, is the -hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate friend and brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER LXXXIX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Miss B._, - -THOUGH, when I came first to London, I thought you had not made the -progress which might be expected in the twelve months, for want of -company; yet your last behaviour gave me reason to think that you was -yet alive to GOD. Oh, dear Miss B――――, do not slumber or sleep, but -be always trimming your spiritual lamp, knowing you are shortly to -meet the Bridegroom. Study to shew the simplicity of JESUS CHRIST, and -strive to imitate those holy matrons, who not only administred to our -LORD of their substance, but also followed him to the accursed tree. -Love, love to JESUS, casts out fear. No doubt they were reproached -for his name sake, and accounted mad women; but they had a faith which -enabled them at that time to overcome the world, and by which they -climbed up to heaven. May dear _Miss B――――_ be thus minded! And may -I see her at the last day amongst the wise virgins! Cultivating an -acquaintance with _Miss D――――_, and the _Miss C――――_, will be a step -towards bringing you thither. - - Dear _Miss B――――_, I am your friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XC. - - _To my Brother._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - -THOUGH I have wrote now for some years to my dear brother, and have -availed nothing, yet I cannot cease striving with him; who knows but -at length the Almighty may remove the scales from his eyes, and enable -him to see the want of a Redeemer. Indeed, my dear brother, you do not -see it yet, because you do not feel it; your moral honesty and good -nature deceives you. You think you are rich, and increased in goods, -and do not consider that you are poor and miserable, blind and naked. -You are self-righteous, and do not rely on the righteousness of the -God-Man, CHRIST JESUS, for salvation. What would I give was my dear -brother convinced of this? For, till he is convinced, he is miserable, -and does not know it. I pray GOD to open your eyes with a sense of -his love. Send me a line to _Georgia_. GOD has sent us a comfortable -passage. In about a twelvemonth I expect to return. Be not surprised -if you hear of my being more cast out. We must suffer, as well as do, -for CHRIST. If you are one of his you will rejoice - - Your affectionate brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCI. - - _To Madam M――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - -I Cannot think of the repeated assistances you gave me by the loan of -your coach, and at the same time forbear sending you a line of thanks. -But what is of greater concern, I think it my duty to write to you -about a more important affair; I mean the salvation of your precious -and immortal soul. GOD was pleased to incline your heart, Madam, to -hear and receive the word with joy. Neither the cares of the world, -nor the deceitfulness of riches, I trust have been permitted to choak, -and hinder the growth of it in your soul. Indeed, Madam, you cannot -be too watchful. It is a blessed, and careful thing, to be a true -Christian. The first step to it is a broken heart, a heart melted down -with a sense of sin, and flying to JESUS CHRIST for righteousness, -sanctification and eternal redemption. Thousands indeed place -christianity in good desires, and the having good desires; but this -and much more a person may have, and yet miscarry at last. Pure and -undefiled religion consists in a lively faith in JESUS CHRIST, as the -only mediator between GOD and man. A faith that changes and renews the -whole soul, takes it entirely off the world, and fixes it wholly upon -GOD. This, Madam, is the faith that you have so often heard me preach, -and of which I pray GOD you may be a partaker. Though you have it not -yet, you need not despair; GOD will give it to all who sincerely ask -of him. It is true, Madam, that not many mighty are called; but it is -not your riches shall keep you from heaven if you truly believe on the -LORD JESUS. Faith in him will enable you to overcome the world, and -cause you even to triumph over the lust of the eye and the pride of -life. Faith will set you above the fear of man, and enable you to -rejoice in being accounted a fool for CHRIST’s sake. That GOD may -impart this faith to your own, and little master’s soul, is the hearty -prayer of, Madam, - - Your obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear brother H._, - -I Congratulate you on your success at _Monmouth_. GOD has yet further -work for you to do, ere you are called before rulers and governors, -for his name sake. By divine permission, in about a twelve-month, -I hope to make a second use of your field pulpits. Our principles -agree, as face answers to face in the water. Since I saw you, GOD -has been pleased to enlighten me more in that comfortable doctrine of -_Election_, &c. At my return, I hope to be more explicit than I have -been. GOD forbid, my dear brother, that we should shun to declare the -whole counsel of GOD. The people of _Wales_ are much upon my heart. -I long to hear how the Gospel flourishes among you. How prospers your -inward man? Being always doing, no doubt you grow in grace. May you -increase with all the increase of GOD! You will see my letters to _Mr. -Jones_, &c. As fast as I can, the rest of our Welch friends shall hear -from me. Oh that I may never forget their works of faith and labours -of love! Salute them most affectionately in my name; and exhort them, -my dear brother, to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered -to the saints. Put them in mind of the freeness and eternity of GOD’s -electing love, and be instant with them, to lay hold on the perfect -righteousness of JESUS CHRIST by faith. Talk to them, oh talk to -them, even till midnight, of the riches of his all-sufficient grace. -Tell them, oh tell them, what he has done for their souls, and how -earnestly he is now interceding for them in heaven. Shew them in the -map of the word, the kingdoms of the upper world, and the transcendent -glories of them; and assure them all shall be theirs, if they believe -on JESUS CHRIST with their whole hearts. Press them to believe on him -immediately. Intersperse prayers with your exhortations, and thereby -call down fire from heaven, even the fire of the Holy Ghost, - - _To soften, sweeten and refine, - And melt them into love._ - -Speak every time, my dear brother, as if it was your last; weep out, -if possible, every argument, and as it were compel them to cry, Behold -how he loveth us. Remember me, Remember me in your prayers, as being -ever, ever - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCIII. - - _To Mr. and Mrs. D――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Friends_, - -WHEN I consider how constantly you attended my ministry, how gladly -you received me into your house, and how affectionately you took your -last farewell; methinks gratitude obliges me to send you a line. It -hath often given me pleasure to see in what harmony you seem to live, -and how you walked to hear the word of GOD as friends. Surely, thought -I, these are a happy pair. These I trust are help-meets for each other. -Oh that you may go on and prosper, and be plentifully rewarded for the -favours shewn to me, the most unprofitable of our LORD’s servants: he -will not forget your works of faith and labours of love. Whenever you -attend his word preached, I hope he will send you replenished away. -Oh that all knew what it is to believe in JESUS! How soon would they -renounce the world, take up their cross and follow him! LORD evermore -give us all this faith, even a faith working by love; a faith that -will enable us to overcome the world, and cause us to shake off all -fear of man. Pray give my due respects to your friend and his wife, -who used to dine with us. I pray GOD sanctify you all in spirit, soul -and body, and cause you to sit down on his right hand with - - Your affectionate, though most unworthy, - Friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. P――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend Sir_, - -YOU may justly censure me as unkind for not answering your kind letter. -I can only plead by way of excuse an hurry of business, and my sudden -departure from _England_. At my return, GOD willing, I purpose to -see _Newbury_, and there to preach the Gospel of the Prince of Peace. -Perhaps my enemies may have so much power given them from above, as -to confine my body: but if I am bound, the word of the LORD will not -be bound. GOD will speak, and great shall be the company of preachers. -It often rejoices me to think what a prospect we have once again of -hearing the truth preached as it is in JESUS. I hope we shall catch -fire from each other, and that there will be an holy emulation amongst -us, who shall most debase man and exalt the LORD JESUS. Nothing -but the doctrines of the Reformation can do this. All others leave -freewill in man, and make him, in part at least, a Saviour to himself. -My soul come not near the secret of those who teach such things, mine -honour be not thou united to them. I know CHRIST is all in all. Man is -nothing: he hath a free will to go to hell, but none to go ♦to heaven, -till GOD worketh in him to will and to do after his good pleasure. -It is GOD must prevent, GOD must accompany, GOD must follow with his -grace, or JESUS CHRIST will bleed in vain. That GOD may continue his -blessing to us both, is the hearty prayer of, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your obliged brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ insert omitted word ‘to’ - - - LETTER XCV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. ――――_, - -WAS not my heart with your heart, when we rode by the way and talked -to each other concerning the Scriptures? I thought our souls tallied -together, and that we had both drank of the same spirit. I have often, -since that time, admired the grace of GOD in you, and even now feel -my soul, whilst I am writing, intimately united with yours. What is -all this, but the effect and fruit of GOD’s everlasting love through -CHRIST our LORD? What is it, but an instance of the sovereign will and -good pleasure of GOD, who will have mercy on whom he will have mercy? -Oh how doth the free, the distinguishing grace of GOD excite the love -of those, who are made partakers of it! What was there in you and in -me, dear _Mr. O――――_, that should move GOD to chuse us before others? -Was there any fitness foreseen in us, except a fitness for damnation? -I believe not. No, GOD chose us from eternity, he called us in time, -and I am persuaded will keep us from falling finally, till time -shall be no more. Consider the Gospel in this view, and it appears a -consistent scheme, though directly contrary to the natural man; and -nothing convinces me more of the truth of these doctrines, than the -enmity that is in the heart of carnal minds against them. However, -the power of GOD is able to pull down every thing that exalts itself -against the knowledge of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. Henceforward I hope -I shall speak boldly and plainly as I ought to speak, and not fail to -declare the whole counsel of GOD. I pray daily, that I may know his -will more perfectly, not only that I may do it myself, but that I may -teach it to others. If I die for it, I cannot but speak the things -which I know. Oh my dear friends, lift up your hands for me in the -sanctuary. The prayers of the faithful, GOD will hear. Entreat the -same favour of your brother. I love you both in the bowels of JESUS -CHRIST, and remember you often when I go in and out before the LORD: -He has been with us in the ship. His rod has corrected, his staff has -comforted us; both his rod and staff have edified and strengthened -our souls. In a year’s time I hope to see _England_. My love to all -friends, and beseech them to pray that I may be prepared for whatever -awaits - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCVI. - - _To Mrs. Ann D._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Sister in CHRIST_, - -I Owe you several letters, I will pay you one now; have patience -with me and I will pay you all. If any one ought to long to enjoy the -communion of saints hereafter, I ought in a particular manner. GOD -has highly favoured me in the acquaintance of numbers of his dearest -children. I cannot see some, and to but few of them can I write, on -account of other business. Hasten, O LORD, that blessed time, when we -shall all sit down to eat bread in thy kingdom!――My dear Sister, pray -that I may patiently wait till my change shall come. I want to leap -my seventy years. I long to be dissolved to be with CHRIST. Sometimes -it arises from a fear of falling, knowing what a body of sin I carry -about me. Sometimes, from a prospect of future labours and sufferings, -I am out of humour, and wish for death as _Elijah_ did: At others, -I am tempted, and then I long to be freed from temptations. But it -is not thus always: There are times when my soul hath such foretastes -of GOD, that I long more eagerly to be with him; and the frequent -prospect of the happiness which the spirits of just men made perfect -now enjoy, often carries me as it were into another world. Many such -sweet meditations hath my soul been favoured with; but in the midst -of all, I have felt, and do feel, that I am the chief of sinners. -A mystery of iniquity that lay in my heart undiscovered, has been -opened to my view, since my retirement in the ship. May he enlighten -me more and more, to know and feel the mystery of his electing, -soul-transforming love. Nothing like that, to support us under present, -and all the various future trials which await us. But the LORD has -apprehended us, and will not let us go. Men and devils may do their -worst; our JESUS will suffer nothing to pluck us out of his Almighty -hands; for he has loved us with an everlasting love, and therefore his -right-hand shall uphold us. By his assistance, we shall hold out to -the end. By his grace, I, you, and all his chosen ones shall finally -be saved. Then, my dear Sister, shall we converse, not with ink and -paper, but face to face. Then, but not till then, shall we fully -know what a legion of devils JESUS CHRIST hath cast out of our souls, -and how, after all our strivings against, and quenching many of the -motions of his spirit, he at last brought us to glory. Cease not to -pray for - - Your unworthy brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCVII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. R._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Brother R._, - -BEFORE I left _England_, I heard of your progress in _Leicestershire_ -and _Nottingham_. I then rejoiced, yea, and I do now rejoice that -GOD hath sent you forth into his vineyard. I wish you all imaginable -success with my whole heart. The next news I hear from _England_, I -suppose, will inform me of your suffering, as well as preaching for -CHRIST. But I am persuaded a prospect of suffering does not damp, but -excite the zeal of my dear fellow-labourer. He lives in a place where -honest _John Bunyan_ was a prisoner of the LORD for twelve years. -And oh, what sweet communion did he enjoy in _Bedford_ gaol! I really -believe a minister will learn more by one month’s confinement, than by -a year’s study. Press on then, my dear Brother, press on and faint not; -speak till you can speak no more. Wait upon the LORD, and you shall -renew your strength. Though sometimes faint, yet still pursue. Up -and be doing, and the LORD be with you. See how the fields are white, -every where ready to harvest. See how our LORD’s sheep are scattered -abroad, having too, too few true shepherds; I beseech you, go on, and -point out to them the Redeemer’s good pastures. Say not, wherewithal -shall I feed them? The great shepherd shall furnish you with food -enough, and to spare. Give of your loaves, and you shall take up of -the fragments that remain. To him that hath, shall be given. Satan -no doubt will resist you; he will bid you, out of a false humility, -to hold your peace; but let my friend speak out boldly as he ought -to speak. The Holy Spirit will give him utterance, and apply the word -to the hearers. If prayers may water the good seed, you may depend on -mine. I remember the dear _Bedford_ people. O let them not forget - - Your poor weak brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. T._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -BEFORE I saw, I loved you. Ever since our personal acquaintance, I -have often thought, what a noble instrument you might be of turning -many to righteousness, if your heart was entirely freed from the -world, and inflamed with the love of GOD. Your vivacity of spirit, -your warm imagination, the energy and strength of your endearing -manner of writing, together with your loving, tender disposition, if -once duly influenced by the spirit of GOD, could not fail of winning -souls to CHRIST. Come out therefore my brother, my friend; come out -from among your carnal connections, and “be thou separate,” saith the -LORD Almighty. Throw off a false politeness, study the simplicity of -JESUS CHRIST, and be despised for something. _O pity, pity the church -of_ England. See how too, too many of her sons are fallen from her -articles, and preach themselves, not CHRIST JESUS the LORD. My dear -friend, I could wish my head was waters, and my eyes fountains of -tears, that I might weep day and night before the LORD. O let us -beseech him to spirit up more of his faithful servants, to go out into -the highways and hedges, and compel poor sinners to come in. Oh that -dear Mr. _T._ may be one of them! How would the spirit of CHRIST and -of glory rest upon his soul! Arise, arise, my dear brother, and gird -up the loins of your mind. Arise, arise, and be not of the number of -those who only fleece their flocks. Lift up your voice like a trumpet, -and preach the truth as it is in JESUS. Dear Mr. _T._ forgive this -freedom. My heart is full. I long to have the pure scripture truths, -as delivered in our homilies and our articles, preached up universally. -This is all that is contended for, by - - Your most unworthy friend, brother, and servant - in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER XCIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D. W._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Love you, though I have been so ungrateful as not to write to you. -I love you in the bowels of our common Master whose name we bear, and -in whose glorious service we are both employed. Oh, dear Sir, what are -we that we should be so highly favoured! Why are we honoured? Why are -we called to the ministry, and others that are effectually called by -grace, yet advanced no higher than private christians? I can only cry -out, Oh the depth of GOD’s sovereign, electing, unmerited love. Even -so Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight! Surely, dear Sir, the -love of CHRIST must constrain us to spend and be spent for the good of -souls. Never was the harvest greater; never were the labourers fewer. -If we do not now lift up our voices like trumpets, the very stones -would cry out against us. I could almost say, “the glory is departed -from _Israel_; the ark of the LORD is fallen into enemies hands.” -Oh let us endeavour, dear Sir, let us endeavour to bring it back, by -preaching and living the truth as it is in JESUS. The light that has -been given us, is not to be put under a bushel, but on a candlestick. -Satan, indeed, by blasts of persecution, will do all he can to put it -out. If our light be the light of CHRIST, those blasts will only cause -it to shine the brighter. You have happily, dear Sir, experienced this. -You, I believe, was both in CHRIST and in the ministry before me. I -præ, sequar, etsi non passibus equis. The devil and all his hosts will -set their battle in array against us. My LORD has given me a sling -and a stone; stripling as I am, I will go forth then in his strength, -make mention of his righteousness only, and by that lay prostrate the -strong _Goliahs_. By your prayers I trust to be sent to _Wales_ once -more. The simplicity of that people much delights me. What shall, what -can I do for them? My prayers they have, and whatever GOD shall enable -me to do, they may demand a share from, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER C. - - _To the Rev. Mr. H._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H._, - -I Received no answer to my last, yet I must write to you again. The -many happy hours I spent with you when at _Oxon_, and the benefit I -have received from your instructions and example, are yet fresh upon -my memory. I long to have my dear friend come forth, and preach the -truth as it is in JESUS. Not a righteousness or inward holiness of -our own, whereby we may make ourselves meet, but a righteousness -of another, even the LORD our righteousness; upon the imputation -and apprehending of which by faith, we shall be made meet by his -Holy Spirit to live with, and to enjoy GOD. Dear Mr. _H._ it is an -excellent thing to be convinced of the freeness and riches of GOD’s -grace in CHRIST JESUS. It is sweet to know and preach, that CHRIST -justifies the ungodly, and that all truly good works are not so much -as partly the cause, but the _effect_ of our justification before -GOD. Till convinced of these truths, you must own free-will in man, -which is directly contrary to the holy scriptures, and the articles -of our church. Let me advise dear Mr. _H._ laying aside all prejudice, -to read and pray over Saint _Paul_’s epistles to the _Romans_ and -_Galatians_, and then let him tell me what he thinks of this doctrine. -Most of your old friends are now happily enlightened. GOD sets his -seal to such preaching in an extraordinary manner, and I am persuaded -the gates of hell shall never be able to prevail against it. Oh that -dear Mr. _H._ would also join with us! Oh that the LORD would open his -eyes to behold aright this part of the mystery of godliness! How would -it rejoice my heart! How would it comfort his own soul! He would then -no longer groan under the spirit of bondage: No, he would be brought -into the glorious liberty of the sons of GOD. I have wrote to dear -Mr. _O._ as well as to you, out of the simplicity of my heart. - - Ever your’s in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. K._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Brother K._, - -I Long to hear how it is with you, and the church in your house. I -verily believe, though it is but a little flock, yet it will be our -heavenly Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. How happy is -it, when all are of one mind in a house; all agreed to entertain and -love the LORD JESUS. Their heaven is begun on earth. I pray GOD to -continue this blessing, and cause you daily to build up each other in -the knowledge of our LORD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST. He is a gracious -Master. Oh that I knew and loved him more! for he is altogether lovely. -Has he yet revealed himself in dear Mr. _K._’s heart? Is he assured -that his beloved is his? Is he brought into the glorious liberty of -the children of GOD? Is his mind free from scruples? Is he active? Is -he punctual? Is he strong in the LORD and in the power of his might? -Is the meekness of the lamb and the boldness of the lion blended in -his soul? Do his parishioners fear, yet love him? Is he a _Boanerges_, -and yet a _Barnabas_ in the church of GOD? Does he thunder against -obstinate sinners, and by displaying the riches of the promises, -comfort and build up the saints? Does he preach as the spirit gives -him utterance? Can he rely on the promise, “Lo I am with you always, -even unto the end of the world?” - -Forgive this freedom, my dear brother. Love makes me thus impertinent. -I want to see you perfect, entire, lacking nothing. May GOD from day -to day supply what is still deficient in you and in me, till we come -to the fulness of the measure of the stature of CHRIST. He is faithful -that has promised. GOD has been gracious to me his servant. In about a -twelvemonth, I hope you will again see and rejoice with - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. F._, - -THE LORD -reward you for all your works of faith and labours of love! They -shall be brought forth as so many evidences of your lively faith, -when we meet before our LORD in judgment. Does not the prospect of -that glorious day, often fill your soul with joy? It does mine. Why? -Because I know my Redeemer is to be my judge. Satan will accuse me; my -answer shall be, the LORD JESUS is my righteousness, how darest thou -to lay any thing to the charge of GOD’s Elect? I stand here not in my -own, but his robes; and though I deserve nothing as a debt, yet I know -he will give me a reward of grace, and recompence me for what he has -done in and by me, as though I had done it by my own power. Oh, dear -Mrs. _F._ how ought this to excite our zeal and love for the holy -JESUS. Why should we desire to plead for a righteousness of our own, -and cry up freewill, when we have an infinitely better righteousness -than our own to appear in, and a GOD that will crown us with eternal -glory for working in us both to will and to do after his good -pleasure? Happy are you and your’s, that have been taught these -glorious principles from your youth! Oh shew them forth more and -more by your works, and let the world see what it is to have a faith -working by love. Study, oh study, day by day, the simplicity of JESUS -CHRIST. Cast away every thing from you that savours of the lust of -the eye and pride of life. Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and let -your conversation always be seasoned with grace. Oh, dear Mrs. _F._ my -heart is enlarged towards you: My kind, my liberal hostess, what shall -I say or do to express my gratitude? I will, I do speak for you to the -king of kings. Though I am so great a sinner, he frequently admits -me into his privy chamber, and then I often sigh out, “O that my dear -_Hertford_ friends may live before thee.” This is all the return, dear -Mrs. _F._ that I can make. It is a prophet’s reward. Being my all, -though but two mites, I know you will accept it from - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CIII. - - _To Mr. S._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Rejoice that GOD sent you so opportunely to _Monmouth_: I find every -day that two are better than one. GOD suffers his dear children to -fall into little miscarriages, that the eye may not say to the hand, -“I have no need of thee;” or again, the head to the foot, “I have no -need of thee.” We must be helps to each other on this side eternity. -Nothing gives me more comfort, next to the assurance of the eternal -continuance of GOD ’s love, than the pleasing reflection of having -so many christian friends to watch with my soul. I wish they would -smite me friendly, and reprove me oftner than they do; I would force -my proud heart to thank them. But I am amazed at your coming off -so triumphantly. Surely the devil is asleep, or rather that roaring -lion thinks to break out upon us with double fury hereafter. It often -shames me, when I read St. _Paul_’s account of his sufferings, to -think in how few particulars I can as yet sympathize with him. It as -often makes me long to be like him, and yet I fear how I shall act -when put to the trial. This, however, is my comfort, “JESUS CHRIST the -same yesterday, to-day, and for ever.” He saw me from all eternity; -he gave me being; he called me in time; he has freely justified me -through faith in his blood; he has in part sanctified me by his spirit; -he will preserve me underneath his everlasting arms, till time shall -be no more. Oh the blessedness of these evangelical truths! These are -indeed gospel; they are glad tidings of great joy to all that have -ears to hear. These, bring the creature out of himself. These, make -him to hang upon the promises, and cause his obedience to flow from a -principle of love. They are meat indeed, and drink indeed unto my soul. -I am persuaded they are so likewise to you and dear Mrs. _S――――_. I -hope she is yet in the land of the living, and that she, yourself, and -your son, are daily preparing for eternity. I pray GOD sanctify your -whole spirits, souls, and bodies, and reward you for all kindnesses -shewn to, dear Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. T._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -SHALL I promise and not perform? GOD forbid. When I saw you first at -_Cardiff_, it rejoiced my heart to hear what GOD had done for your -soul. You was then under some displeasure of your rector, if I mistake -not, for speaking the truth as it is in JESUS. Ere now, I hope dear -Mr. _T._ has had the honour of being quite thrust out. Rejoice, my -dear brother, and be exceeding glad, for thus was our LORD and SAVIOUR -served before you. Naked therefore follow a naked CHRIST. Freely you -have received, freely give. If you preach the gospel, you shall live -of the gospel. Though you go out without scrip or shoe, yet shall you -lack nothing. Rather than you shall want, ravens, those birds of prey, -shall be commanded to feed you. It is a blessed thing to live upon GOD. -Did ever any trust in him and was forsaken? No; search the generations -of old, climb up into heaven if you can, and all with one consent will -declare, - - _The LORD their pasture did prepare, - And fed them with a shepherd’s care._ - -I, though hell-deserving, am a living witness of his good providence; -having nothing, I possess all things; he has fed me with the -kidneys of wheat, and commanded some one or another to sustain me -whithersoever I was sent on his errand. JESUS is the same yesterday, -to-day, and for ever. If we go forth in the spirit of the first -apostles, we shall meet with apostolical success. And never was there -more occasion for the revival of such a primitive spirit. Alas, the -life, the power of religion is almost lost amongst us. Stir up then, -dear Sir, the gift of GOD, which is in you. Be instant in season and -out of season. Debase man and exalt JESUS. Self-righteousness overturn, -overturn. The people of _Wales_, the common people at least, will -receive you gladly. The LORD shall fight all battles for you here, and -reward you with a crown that never fadeth hereafter. If I have but the -lowest place in your affections, it will abundantly satisfy - - Your most affectionate brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CV. - - _To Mr. M._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dearest Sir_, - -EVER since you opened your heart so freely in the garden, you have -been much upon my heart. Though absent from, yet I have been present -with you. I am acquainted in some measure with the strugglings of a -soul just awakening into new life. I know too many have stifled their -convictions, and therefore am importunate on your behalf. I hope you -have taken my advice, and laid the ax to the root of the tree. Oh pray -for a new heart and a new spirit, and then all old things will subside -and give way of themselves. The strong man armed must go out when the -stronger than he, even the spirit of GOD, comes to take possession -of your soul. What therefore have you to do, dear Sir, but to throw -yourself as a poor sinner at the feet of the holy JESUS? You need -not doubt his holding out the golden sceptre to you. Whosoever cometh -to him by faith, he will in no-wise cast out. He calls, he draws -you: what is it for, but to assure you he will make you happy? Come -then, dear Sir, weary and heavy laden as you are, the LORD your -righteousness shall give you rest: He shall refresh you with a -multitude of peace, and cause you to rejoice in his salvation; there -is nothing too hard for the LORD CHRIST. He can draw your mind from -the creature, he can fix it upon himself; he can enable you to live -above the world, whilst you are in it; he can translate you to heaven, -when he has taken you away from earth. As the LORD JESUS can, so that -he may do all these things for your soul, is the hearty prayer of, -dear Sir, - - Your sincere friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CVI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. H._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dearest Sir_, - -IT often concerned me, when in _London_, that I could not enjoy more -of your company. Your conversation was always seasoned with grace, and -such as became the gospel of CHRIST. Your great kindness, in publicly -praying for me, can never be sufficiently acknowledged. The thought -almost makes me to weep for joy. Surely the LORD will not let me -miscarry, since he has stirred up the choicest of his servants to -intercede in my behalf. The searcher of all hearts alone knows, what -agonies my poor soul has undergone since my retirement from the world. -The remembrance of my past sins has overwhelmed my soul, and caused -tears to be my meat day and night. Indeed I have mourned as one -mourneth for a first born: But I looked to him whom I have pierced. -I was enabled to see the freeness and riches of his grace, the -infiniteness and eternity of his love, and my soul received comfort. -Oh the excellency of the doctrine of election, and of the saints final -perseverance, to those who are truly sealed by the spirit of promise! -I am persuaded, till a man comes to believe and feel these important -truths, he cannot come out of himself; but when convinced of these, -and assured of the application of them to his own heart, he then walks -by faith indeed, not in himself, but in the Son of GOD, who died and -gave himself for him. Love, not fear, constrains him to obedience. The -promises of GOD are all Yea and Amen to his soul. Supported by these -convictions, in about a twelvemonth, GOD willing, I intend returning -to _England_, and to begin my testimony afresh. I trust I shall not -be ashamed to declare the whole counsel of GOD. Satan, no doubt, and -his emissaries, will endeavour to block up my way; but the saints of -GOD are praying for me on earth, and the holy JESUS is interceding -in heaven. Why should I not go forth and offer his everlasting and -perfect righteousness to all that shall be brought to believe on him? -Satan suggests even whilst I am writing, “How canst thou speak, seeing -thou art such a sinner?” But therefore will I speak, because I can say, -by happy experience, that JESUS CHRIST will have mercy on the chief of -sinners; for among such you may truly rank - - Your unworthy brother, and unprofitable fellow-labourer, - in our dear LORD’s vineyard, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CVII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. D._, - -TEN thousand blessings light upon you and yours! The LORD reward you -ten thousand-fold for receiving me and my friends into your house. The -LORD shower down his heavenly manna, and feed you with the bread of -life for those comfortable meals we have had of your providing since -we came on board. We have not been slack to pray for you; my heart -is now full of a sense of your kindnesses. I know not when to begin -and when to leave off adoring the GOD and Father of our LORD JESUS -CHRIST for these and all other of his love-tokens: He is the father -of mercies, and the GOD of all comfort; he hath comforted me in all -my tribulation, and, I am assured, will still comfort me in whatsoever -I am to do or suffer for his name’s sake. You, dear Mrs. _D._ can -subscribe to this truth, that GOD is a God of all comfort. You have -been comforted on every side; you have been filled as it were with new -wine; you have tasted that the LORD is gracious, and yet the best wine -is and will be always reserved till the last. The LORD’s compassions -fail not; they are, they will be renewed to you every morning; and -though, through much tribulation, you, as well others, must enter into -glory, yet you will find GOD to be your comforter in all tribulation. -GOD has made you a joyful mother of christian children; remember the -mother in the _Maccabees_; and, if ever your children are called to -suffering, beg of GOD that you may stand by and encourage them to die -for CHRIST. Oh that would be a spectacle indeed! A spectacle worthy -of men and angels! I pray GOD to arm you with this mind, and then you -will find that GOD’s rod as well as his staff will comfort you; nay, -though you pass through the valley of the shadow of death, yet shall -the Holy Spirit refresh you; your heart shall stand fast, and be -stedfast in the LORD. Oh, my dear Madam, my heart is enlarged towards -you: I pray GOD to fill you with all his divine fulness, and make you -daily more and more meet to be an inheritor among the saints in light. -With much love I have wrote to dear Mr. _D._ Oh pray him not to be -angry with - - Your most affectionate friend and brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CVIII. - - _To Mr. N._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -BE not displeased at the contents of this; if I was not persuaded -that love to your soul, and my duty towards GOD, moved me to write, -I should be silent. When last at _Gloucester_, I heard you was -highly offended at my meetings in the fields, and at the same time -countenanced and encouraged the acting of plays in the _Boothall_. -This I thought highly unbecoming the character of a christian -magistrate, whose peculiar business it is to be a terror to evil doers, -and a praise to them that do well. This made me to speak against those -proceedings in my sermons. This is the occasion of my troubling you -with a letter. I cannot think I have delivered my soul, unless, with -all meekness and humility, I exhort you henceforward not to promote -or so much as any way countenance the stage-players. In our common -law they are stiled _sturdy beggars_. As a minister of the king, upon -that account it is your duty to put a stop to them: As a disciple -and minister of JESUS CHRIST, the king of kings, you are obliged, -_honoured Sir_, to exert your authority in suppressing them. It is -notorious that such meetings are the nurseries of debauchery; they -are the pest of our nation, and the bane of true christianity: To -be present at, or in the least to contribute towards their support, -is therefore a great sin; but to countenance them by our authority, -and let them act by our permission, what is this but becoming public -patrons for vice and immorality? It is not only sinning ourselves, -but it is taking pleasure in the sins of others. This the apostle -accounted the highest pitch of heathenish wickedness. Honoured Sir, -pray be not offended: These are not the words of a madman; no, they -are the words of truth and soberness, and words which our LORD will -approve of, when I stand with you before him in judgment. However men -may now put wrong names to things, and call that an innocent amusement, -which has no other tendency but to corrupt and debauch the heart, yet -then, Sir, we shall see all things clearly; then shall you know that -it was my duty to write as I have done, and will confess before men -and angels that you had an humble and affectionate warning given you, -by, honoured Sir, - - Your very humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CIX. - - _To Mr. Thomas P._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -THOUGH unknown to you in person, yet as you was pleased to think me -worthy of the care of your dear son, I think it my duty to acquaint -you of his welfare. I bless GOD that he came with me. He is diligent -and pious, and I trust will be a comfort to you in your declining -years: His mind seems settled and composed, and by reading and -following the bible, he is partaker of that peace which the world -cannot give. His dear and honoured father is much upon his heart. -How would it rejoice him to hear that you also was become a christian -indeed? Be not offended, dear Sir, at my expressing myself thus. -Assure yourself that christianity is something more than a name and -a bare outward profession. Morality of itself, dear Sir, will never -carry us to heaven; no, JESUS CHRIST is the way, the truth, and the -life. There is no being happy without a lively faith in him, wrought -in the heart by the blessed spirit of GOD. This faith transforms the -whole man, delivers him from the tyranny of his passions, and makes -him entirely a new creature. This is the reason why it is foolishness -to the world. Your son’s case in this respect was not singular. As -soon as ever we commence christians, we commence fools for CHRIST’s -sake. Every truly religious man must be deemed a madman. Forgive this -freedom, dear Sir; whilst I am writing, I find a love for your soul -arising in my heart, and methinks I could do any thing to bring your -grey hairs with comfort to the grave. Dear Sir, there is mercy with -CHRIST even for those who come in at the eleventh hour. CHRIST came to -save poor sinners; he came to save you, dear Sir, if you lay hold on -him by a living faith. That GOD may give you this faith, and thereby -make you happy in time and to eternity, is the hearty prayer of, dear -Sir, - - Your obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. R. D._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Think I am a little in your debt; if not, love and gratitude call -upon me to send you a line. Man appoints, but GOD disappoints: His -providence called me away, before I could possibly see _Cornwall_. -In about a twelvemonth I purpose returning. Who knows but then I may -be enabled to perform my promise? The whole world is now my parish. -Wheresoever my master calls me, I am ready to go and preach his -everlasting gospel. My only grief is, that I can do no more for CHRIST; -for I am sure I ought to love and do much, having had so much forgiven; -not that I expect in the least to be justified by any or all the works -I either can or shall do: No, the LORD CHRIST is my righteousness, my -whole and perfect righteousness; but then I would shew forth my faith, -I would declare to the world the sincerity of my love, by always -abounding in the works of my LORD. Oh pray, dear Sir, that I may be -never weary in well-doing. The devil and his servants will shoot sore -at me that I may fall; but this consideration comforts and supports -me, “The LORD is my helper;” he has, he does, he will deliver. I am -persuaded you feel his gracious presence, and the influences of his -blessed spirit, whenever you go forth to speak in his name. May a -double portion of his spirit and precious anointings descend upon your -soul! May you be filled with all his fulness, and be enabled thereby -to turn many to righteousness here, and so shine as the firmament of -heaven for ever hereafter! Oh that a place at some saints feet may be -assigned to, dear Sir, - - Your weak though affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. B._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -YOU have been too kind, and I have been too ungrateful. Business would -not permit me to have so much private conversation with you as I ought. -Success I fear elated my mind. I did not behave towards you, and other -ministers of CHRIST, with that humility which became me. I freely -confess my fault; I own myself to be but a novice. Your charity, dear -Sir, will excite you to pray that I may not through pride fall into -the condemnation of the devil. Dear Sir, shall I come out into the -world again or not? Must I venture myself once more among fire-brands, -arrows, and death? Methinks I hear you reply, “Yes, if you come forth -in the strength of the LORD GOD, and make mention of his righteousness -only.” It is my desire so to do. I would have JESUS all in all. Like -a pure chrystal, I would transmit all the light he poureth upon me. -Oh pray, dear Sir, that I may be thus minded, and then, GOD willing, -in about a twelvemonth, I intend visiting the _Bristol_ brethren once -again. In the mean while, I hope the LORD will purge me, that I may -bring forth more fruit, and work upon me mightily in the inner-man, -for otherwise his blessings will prove curses to me. He has been -pleased to dig and dung round me, during my retirement; he has shewn -me something of the treachery of my own heart, and more and more -convinced me that I am the chief of sinners. Oh that my heart may -shew forth the eternity and sovereignty of his love! for never surely -was there a greater instance of it than myself. Happy are those that -are brought to an experimental knowledge of these mysteries of the -kingdom of GOD. Many of your charge have been, I believe; I pray GOD -to increase the number of your spiritual children more and more, and -to add daily to the church such as shall be saved. My cordial respects -attend your fellow-labourers, and all who are so kind as to ask for me; -as fast as opportunity permits, they may expect to hear from, reverend -Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. F._, - -I Have now time to answer your last letter. It gave me much -satisfaction. I rejoice that you begin to know yourself. If possible, -satan will make us to think more highly of ourselves than we ought to -think. I can tell this by fatal experience. It is not sudden flashes -of joy, but having the humility of CHRIST JESUS, that must denominate -us christians. If we hate reproof, we are so far from being true -followers of the Lamb of GOD, that in the opinion of the wisest of -men, we are brutish. I love you and your dear husband in the bowels -of JESUS CHRIST. Under GOD, I begot you both through the gospel. -I therefore think it my bounden duty, from time to time, more -particularly to watch over your precious souls. Never account me your -enemy for speaking the truth. Tell me of my faults in your turn. I -will pray GOD to give me an hearing ear and an obedient heart. But -how do our brethren after their late dispersion? I heard they had in -part recovered themselves. Ere now, I trust, they have resumed their -courage, and stand stedfast as a wall of brass. If you were all to -be carried to prison the next moment, I think you should not decline -your christian fellowship and society meetings. My brethren, in this -respect, I beseech you to obey GOD rather than man. Happy are you, if -you patiently suffer in such a cause. Our LORD will stand by you; he -will fight all your battles, and make you more than conquerors through -his love. My heart would say more; but other letters must be wrote. -Salute all the brethren by name, and accept this as a token of your -not being forgotten by - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THE favours received at _Hertford_, from you and your dear flock, are -not yet out of my mind: They were exceeding endearing, and deserve my -utmost acknowledgments. Had providence permitted, I should have paid -you another visit; but GOD’s thoughts are not as our thoughts: However, -in about a twelvemonth, by his leave, I hope to return amongst you -once more. Oh! that I may come in the blessing of the gospel of peace! -The doctrines I have already preached come with double evidence upon -my mind day by day. I am more and more convinced that they are the -truths of GOD; they agree with the written word, and the experience -of all the saints in all ages: Nothing more confirms me in the belief -of them, than the opposition that is made against them by natural men. -Election, free grace, free justification without any regard to works -foreseen, are such paradoxes to carnal minds, that they cannot away -with them. This is the wisdom of GOD, which is foolishness with man, -and which, the LORD being my helper, I intend to exalt and contend for -more and more; not with carnal weapons, that be far from me, but with -the sword of the spirit, the word of GOD: No sword like that. Dear Sir, -pray for me that I may rightly divide the word of truth, and give to -each his portion in due season. The LORD has been exceeding gracious -to me since I saw you last. Oh let your songs be of him, and praise -him for all his wonderful works. As I am enabled I remember you and -yours. Many, when I was with them, were mourning; ere now I hope they -are comforted. He is faithful who has promised, who also will do it. -If they hunger and thirst after CHRIST ’s righteousness, verily they -shall know that it is imputed to them. That you and your whole charge -may be filled with all the fulness of GOD, is the earnest prayer of, -dear Sir, - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXIV. - - _To Mr. Wm. D――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My Dear Brother_, - -YOUR last brought glad tidings. I endeavour to give thanks for you -with my whole heart. I trust GOD has enabled you to take the advice -you gave me, and that you have been kept from idolatry. Oh my dear -brother, let us watch and pray, that we may not be led into temptation. -The spirit is willing in both; but the flesh, mine in particular, is -exceeding weak. Blessed be GOD for sending me on ship-board. He has -given me to see something of that mystery of iniquity, which was in -my heart. I have loathed and abhorred my own self. Tears have been my -meat day and night; but glory be to GOD, who has lately assured me of -a victory through JESUS CHRIST our LORD. At present my heart is quite -free. You will see what I have written to those of your household. -I pray the LORD to send you and many more such labourers into his -harvest. I intend resigning the parsonage of _Savannah_. ♦The _Orphan -House_ I can take care of, supposing I should be kept at a distance; -besides, when I have resigned the parish, I shall be more at liberty -to take a tour round _America_, if GOD should ever call me to such a -work. However, I determine nothing, I wait on the LORD. I am persuaded -he will shew what is his will: though my heart is as yet perverse, in -time I hope to drink deeper into his spirit. How earnestly do I desire -to be dissolved, that I may be with CHRIST! Sometimes my weak body -gives me hopes, that I shall not be long in the flesh; but then, the -strength that is communicated to me, and the consideration, that I -have but just begun my testimony, fills me with fears, lest I should -live to be greyheaded. But I endeavour to resign myself wholly to GOD. -I desire his will may be done in me, by me, and upon me. If the LORD -preserves me from falling into sin, and dishonouring his holy name, -let him do what seemeth him good with - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘Th’ replaced with ‘The’ - - - LETTER CXV. - - _To Madam C――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Madam_, - -TO be made good by the righteousness and spirit of JESUS CHRIST, is -a distinguishing blessing. To be made good, and yet to be great and -rich in this world’s goods, is still more extraordinary. Blessed be -GOD, who has thus highly favoured you. I trust he hath given you that -faith, which enables you to overcome the world, and emboldens you to -confess both our LORD and his servants, in the midst of a wicked and -adulterous generation. Once indeed I feared you had been offended. -Dear Mr. M―――― soon convinced me of my error. Yourself, Madam, amply -satisfied me before I left _London_, that you were not ashamed of the -gospel and ministers of CHRIST. May the LORD enable you more and more -to set your face as a flint, and entirely to live above the fear of -man. If the work goes on in _England_, a trying time will come. I -pray GOD, the same spirit may be found in all that profess the LORD -JESUS, as was in the primitive saints, confessors and martyrs. Further -opposition then will not hurt, but highly profit the church. The chaff -will be winnowed from the wheat, and they that are approved be made -manifest. As for my own part, I expect nothing but afflictions and -bonds. The spirit, as well as the doctrine of popery, prevails much -in many protestants hearts; they already breathe out threatnings. What -wonder, if when in their power, they should breathe out slaughters -also? This is my comfort, the doctrines I have taught are the -doctrines of scripture, the doctrines of our own and of other reformed -churches. If I suffer for preaching them, so be it. “Thou shalt answer -for me, O LORD my GOD!” I rejoice in the prospect of it, and beseech -thee, my dear redeemer, to strengthen me in a suffering hour. You, -dear Madam, and the rest of my friends, will not be wanting in praying -for - - Your most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXVI. - - _To Mr. D――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -GRATITUDE and love call upon me to write a letter of acknowledgment -for favours received when lately at ――――. The LORD remember them at -that day! You have confessed his servants before men, he has promised -to confess such, before his angels in heaven. The principles which -I maintain, are purely scriptural, and every way agreeable to the -church of _England_ articles. What I have been chiefly concerned about -is, lest any should rest in the bare speculative knowledge, and not -experience the power of them in their own hearts.――What avails it, -Sir, if I am a patron for the righteousness of JESUS CHRIST in behalf -of another, if at the same time I am self-righteous myself? I am -thus jealous, I trust with a godly jealousy, because I see so many -self-deceivers among my acquaintance. There is one in particular (whom -I love, and for whom I most heartily pray) who approves of my doctrine, -and hath heard it preached many years past, but I could never hear him -tell of his experiences, or of what GOD has done for his soul. He hath -excellent good desires and intentions, but I think he wants something -more: LORD, for thy infinite mercy’s sake, grant he may know himself -even as he is known! I need not tell Mr. _D――――_, who this dear friend -is――you are intimately acquainted with him, you love him as you do -your own heart; you are never out of his company. Oh, dear Sir, be not -angry. Methinks I hear you, by this time, making an application, and -saying, “Then I am the man.” True, dear Sir, I confess you are. But -love, love for your better part, your soul, your precious soul, this -love constrains me to use this freedom. You are more noble than to -take it ill at my hands; I could not bear even to suspect that you -deceived yourself, dear Sir, and not tell you such a suspicion was in -my heart. That GOD may powerfully convince you of self-righteousness, -and cloath you with the righteousness of his dear Son; that he may -fill you with his grace, and thereby fit you for, and at last -translate you to, his glory, is the hearty prayer of, dear Sir, - - Your most obliged and affectionate friend and humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXVII. - - _To a Servant._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - -WHEN I was at Mr. ――――, I fear I did not ask you often enough what GOD -had done for your soul. I write this to beg your pardon. Want of time -was the cause. I believe CHRIST hath manifested himself to your soul. -Shew it, I entreat you, by labouring to adorn his gospel in all things. -A meek and quiet spirit is in the sight of GOD of great price. You are -happy in a place. I hope you know and are thankful for it. Take heed -that you serve with singleness of heart, as unto CHRIST. Go when you -are bid to go, come when you are bid to come; when commanded to do -this, do it with all your might. Bear with the perverseness of others. -Remember how silent _Mary_ was, when her sister _Martha_ peevishly -said, “LORD, carest thou not that my sister has left me to serve -alone?” My unfeigned love attends all the _Martha’s_ and _Mary’s_ -of your acquaintance. I pray they may in all things walk as women -professing godliness. To hear of your progress in the gospel, would -much please - - Your Sincere friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. ――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -THE many favours I have received at your hands, are still deeply -impressed upon my heart; as I have often said, so I say again, I hope -they will never be forgotten by me so long as I live. But, reverend -Sir, I have observed some particulars in your principles and conduct, -which I must confess have given me much concern, and of which, from -love and gratitude, I think myself obliged to inform you. ―――― I -believe, dear Sir, you have often been inwardly offended at me, -because you suspected, I thought you to be no true christian. Your -suspicions were not groundless. I cannot yet think, that a thorough -work of conversion was ever wrought upon your soul. I fear you deny, -that “JESUS CHRIST is truly and properly GOD.” I infer this, from -your not reading the _Nicene Creed_, and your palliating that text I -once urged to prove it. “I and my Father are one.” I doubt also, your -owning “Original Sin.” This I gather from your wondering I should -touch on such a point, when I preached my sermon on justification by -JESUS CHRIST. Besides, the sad definition you once gave of religion -in a letter to your brother ――――; the stranger also which you seemed -to be to the “devil’s temptations,” when I conversed with you; and -your supposing, that conversion was to be wrought in the soul by -moral persuasion; all these put together, dear Sir, convince me, that -you were never yet truly and effectually born again of GOD. Besides, -_Reverend Sir_, does your going weekly to a club, where the company -play at cards, and sit up late at night, does this, dear Sir, agree -with your holy vocation, either as a christian or a minister? Be not -offended, Rev. Sir, at this plainness of speech. I have forborne a -long while; love and gratitude would not suffer me to forbear any -longer. I wish I had no occasion to write in this manner. I believe -you so ingenuous as not to be angry with me. I pray GOD to quell all -resentment in your heart, and send you his holy spirit to guide you -into all truth. Your brother’s eyes are now in some measure opened: -he is convinced of the perfect righteousness wrought out for him by -JESUS CHRIST, and ere now I hope hath received faith to apply it to -his heart. This is the doctrine of the church of _England_. Unless -you hold this and other evangelical principles, how, dear Sir, is it -consistent with sincerity to eat her bread? With humility, respect, -and love, do I offer these things to your consideration――Be pleased to -weigh them in a proper balance, and reflect from what principle they -are wrote, and I am persuaded you will not be offended at, reverend -and dear Sir, - - ♦Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘You’ replaced with ‘Your’ - - - LETTER CXIX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. S――――_, - -I Love an _Israelite_ indeed, I love a catholic spirit destitute -of guile; you I am persuaded are thus minded. The LORD hath highly -favoured you: he hath given you a meek and quiet spirit. My heart -hath been knit to you, ever since GOD first brought us together. Oh -pray, that what I admire in another, I may imitate myself, and have -the graces of JESUS CHRIST stamped upon my heart. It fills me with -confusion, whenever I consider how far I am from his likeness. Alas! -What would become of me, was I to be saved by any thing within myself. -Blessed be GOD, the LORD JESUS is my whole righteousness. By virtue -of that I know I am justified, I believe I shall be sanctified, and -am assured I shall be everlastingly redeemed: for GOD loved me with -an everlasting love. Oh, dear Sir, the prospect of an hereafter fills -my soul with comfort. Then shall I have enough of your company, and of -the other children of GOD. The LORD give me patience to wait till my -blessed change cometh. He often gives me such foretastes of the glory -to be revealed in us, that I want to leap my seventy years. But in -a degree, I may say with my blessed master, “I have a cup to drink -of, and a baptism to be baptized with.” Dear Mr. _S――――_ will see me -humbled, I believe, as much as once exalted; I look for “Away with him, -away with him,” every day. Then, I trust, I shall begin in earnest to -be a disciple of JESUS CHRIST. Even in such an hour, I believe dear -Mr. _S――――_ will dare own - - His affectionate though most unworthy friend, - brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -TO think, that you should be engaged publickly to pray for me, hath -often given me much satisfaction, and now excites me to send you this -letter of thanks: help me still, help me, dear Sir, by your prayers. -They will be a means of lifting up my hands when they hang down, -and of strengthning my feeble knees. Though in all things we do not, -yet in essentials we both think and speak the same things. I wish -all names among the saints of GOD were swallowed up in that one of -_Christian_.――I long for professors to leave off placing religion in -saying “I am a Churchman,” “I am a Dissenter.” My language to such -is, “Are you of CHRIST? If so, I love you with all my heart:” for this -reason chiefly, dear Sir, my heart is drawn out towards you. On this -account, though so long in CHRIST before me, I make bold to call you -brother, and to wish you GOD speed: blessed be his name, you have -little reason to cry out; “My leanness, my leanness.” Many gracious -souls are among your flock, they love to be fed with the sincere milk -of the word. I hope they will be your joy and crown of rejoicing -in the day of the LORD JESUS. I often think of them with pleasure; -pray salute them most affectionately in my name, and exhort them to -entreat the LORD that I may make full proof of my ministry. In about -a twelvemonth, GOD willing, I intend returning to _England_; I wish it -may be in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of peace. I think -you are happy in the acquaintance of Mr. _B―――― S――――_. I trust he -will be as good as he is great, and after he is made perfect through -manifold temptations and trials, sit down with you, and all the other -spirits of just men made perfect, in heaven. This is the hearty prayer -of, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother and fellow labourer - in our LORD’s vineyard, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Brother_, - -YOU cannot conceive how often you have been upon my thoughts, since -I saw you. Eternity itself I hope will not diminish, but more and -more increase that love, which I bear you from my heart. Your stature -reminds me of little _Zaccheus_: he that called him, I am persuaded -hath called you: Have you not heard him say to your soul, “I am your -salvation?” If so, fear not, thou art a son of _David_. Let worldly -affairs be ever so bad, he that has given you his own dear Son, will -make you more than conqueror in all things. Still dare to own our dear -LORD before men. It is no scandal for a follower of JESUS CHRIST to -be poor. Our LORD was poor before us――So that we are rich in faith and -good works, it is not much ♦matter if we are not rich in this world’s -goods. Having CHRIST, though we have nothing else, we possess all -things. However, since godliness hath the promise of the life that now -is, as well as that which is to come, I would advise you to plead the -promises for temporal blessings. In the name of JESUS, many a sweet -morsel and opportune supply, have I fetched in from GOD by this means. -That is the way I live, and hope shall continue so to live till death -is swallowed up in victory. _Death_――what a comfortable word is that -for a believer! CHRIST hath taken the sting of it away; henceforward -it is no longer a king of terrors, but a welcome messenger to conduct -the saints to glory. My dear brother, let us comfort one another with -these things. We are not to live here always; our inheritance is above. -When CHRIST who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear -with him in glory. Why then should we value these light afflictions, -which are but for a moment? No, let us patiently bear our cross, -since we are so shortly to wear a crown. Oh the riches of free, -distinguishing grace! Why were you and I taken into favor? “Even so -Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight.” O! my friend, my brother, -let us for ever extol free grace! However others exalt man and debase -GOD, let us exalt GOD and debase man. Let JESUS CHRIST have all the -glory: for he is the author, carrier on, and finisher of our faith. He -hath begun it in time, he shall compleat it in eternity.――My brother, -I have been so expanded whilst writing, that I must refer you to other -friends, to know how graciously GOD hath dealt with - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘mater’ replaced with ‘matter’ - - - LETTER CXXII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. W._, - -I Long to be in heaven, chiefly to see GOD even as he is; next, that -I may have my soul satisfied with the blissful communion of saints. -There I hope to see you and your wife, and to shew how sincerely I -love you both in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. My heart has went along -with my hand, when I used to stretch it out to you in the field. -I only wanted more time to converse with you. Oh my dear brother, let -us keep ourselves in the love of GOD through faith in CHRIST JESUS, -and then, yet a little while we shall meet in glory. As faith is -the beginning, so faith is the end of the christian course. Let -us keep this grace in continual exercise, and we may bid death and -hell defiance. Faith makes us more than conquerors over all; I speak -thus to you, because I hope you and dear Mrs. ―――― have been in -some measure made partakers of this free gift of GOD. I pray GOD to -increase it more and more, till it be swallowed up in the fruition of -our supreme good. Perhaps our faith may be put to the trial ere it be -long; I expect nothing but sufferings. Oh pray that I may be faithful -unto the end, and that a crown of life may be given to - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXIII. - - _To Mr. H._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My dear Brother_, - -THE christian love I bear to both your sister and you, excites me to -send you a line. Providence prevented your sailing with us; but as we -have drank into the same spirit, I hope brotherly love will continue -and increase between us, to all eternity. I have often wrestled in -prayer for you since we have been on board. Your sister has watered -those prayers with her tears, and I trust the LORD was entreated of -us. Our voyage has been highly profitable to our souls. I can never -be thankful enough for this sweet retreat. My dear brother, how do you -find your heart? Mine is like _Ezekiel’s temple_, the farther I search -into it, the greater abominations I discover; but there is a fountain -opened for sin and all uncleanness. There, my dear brother, we may -both wash and be made clean. The LORD hath already vouchsafed us some -assurances of his love. Oh let us continually keep faith in exercise, -till it be entirely swallowed up in the boundless ocean of the -beatific vision. That GOD may daily renew you by his spirit, and more -and more fit you for the happiness which awaits you above, is the -hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate though weak brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXIV. - - _To Mrs. ――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _My Dear Friend_, - -SHALL I have any leisure time and not write you a line of thanks for -your works of faith and labours of love? GOD forbid. I know not your -name, but I neither forget your house, nor favours. The LORD reward -you a thousand fold! I only fear that you have my person too much in -admiration. If you look to the instrument less, and to GOD more, it -will be better. By the grace of GOD alone, I am what I am. If any good -hath been done to you or others, it was not I, but the grace of GOD -that was in me. Oh, not unto me, not unto me, but unto GOD’s name be -all the glory. I pray GOD to make you partaker of the same grace; for -I would not have you an hearer only, I would have you a doer also. -Surely you are more noble and wise, than to deceive your own soul. And -yet it is but too notorious, that numbers rest in the outward form, -and are strangers to the inward power of godliness in their hearts. -Do not you so learn CHRIST. Beg of GOD that you may feel his spirit -working mightily in your soul, and witnessing with your spirit that -you are a child of GOD. I could go on, but other letters must be -wrote――Pray tender my love to all that dined with me at your house; -exhort them to keep close by faith to CHRIST, and to pray to and give -him thanks in my behalf; for he hath dealt most graciously with - - Your obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. ――――_, - -STILL I must repeat my former request. Be not angry because I did -not visit you oftener. I love, I honour you the more for being of -low degree. You are thereby rendered more conformable to our dear and -common LORD. His business alone prevented my seeing you so often as -I would. However, though absent, I rejoice that our Saviour has dealt -so lovingly with you. As afflictions have abounded, consolations -have much more abounded. I am persuaded, you can affirm that GOD is -the father of all mercies, and the GOD of all comforts. Has he not -comforted you my dear sister in all your tribulation? He that hath, -and does, will still deliver you. Yet a little while, and he that -cometh will come, and will not tarry. Shortly I suppose the earthly -house of this your tabernacle will be dissolved: fear not, you shall -then be cloathed upon with your house which is from heaven. Oh pray -that such honour may be also conferred on - - Your unworthy brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXVI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. C――――_, - -I Cannot forget your frequent attendance on my ministry when last at -London. I am pressed in spirit to write you a line, to exhort you to -contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints. You have -learned the truth as it is in JESUS. You have been taught it of GOD. -Electing love hath snatched you as a brand out of the fire, and you -have followed our LORD without the camp, bearing his reproach. The -LORD’s tabernacle has lately been pitched in the fields. Ere long -it may be driven into the wilderness. I hope you will follow it even -there. The divine presence, I am persuaded, will accompany it. Hath -not your heart often burnt within you when the Scriptures have been -opening to you, though not under a church roof? GOD is not confined to -places. Wherever his people are, he will find and visit them. Our LORD -(oh stupendous love!) has been pleased to sail with us. I have tasted -both of his rod and staff; each has given me unspeakable comfort. My -dear brother, help me to praise him. Who so great, so good a GOD, as -our GOD? In about a twelve-month I hope to see you again. Oh pray -for me, my dear brother, that I may meanwhile be let further into the -mysteries of godliness, “GOD manifest in the flesh.” As yet, I find I -am but a child, and a meer novice. But this is my comfort, “The LORD -who has begun will carry on the good work,” till I am grown a strong -man in CHRIST JESUS. I long to know more of his love, I hunger and -thirst after the teachings of his blessed spirit. You, I am persuaded, -are no otherwise minded. Still press on and faint not. Yet a little -while and you shall enter into perfect joy with - - Your affectionate brother in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXVII. - - _New-York, Nov. 16, 1739._ -_Reverend Sir_, - -SEEING a passage in your letter to Mr. _P――――_ concerning me, I find -my heart immediately set to send you a line. I love to be acquainted -with the true and old servants of JESUS CHRIST, because I delight to -sit at their feet and receive instruction from them. You said right, -reverend Sir, when you said “I was but a young divine.” Indeed I am -a novice in the things of GOD. I can only say, that I desire to know -the whole will of GOD, that I may communicate it to others. CHRIST -is so good a master, that I would have all men drawn after him. He is -pleased to let me experience daily teachings of his blessed spirit, -and to show me the riches, freeness, and eternal duration of his -love.――But as yet I only see men as trees walking. Oh pray, reverend -Sir, that the LORD would again touch me, and enable me to see all -things clearly. I desire it only for the good of his church. Reverend -Sir, into what a lethargy is the christian world fallen! Foolish and -wise virgins are all slumbering and sleeping. It is high time for all -that love the LORD JESUS to lift up their voices like trumpets, and -to give warning of the bridegroom’s coming; many I hope are already -alarmed.――_Philadelphia_ people receive the gospel gladly. Here, -indeed, has been some little opposition, and therefore I hope success -will be given to the word, and what has been done in _England_, the -journal sent with this will inform you. Oh reverend Sir, I beseech you -give thanks for me with your whole heart. Entreat the LORD that I may -be kept humble and dependent upon our dear LORD JESUS. GOD willing, -in about seven months I hope to see _New England_ in my return to -_Europe_. An effectual door is there opened, and no wonder that there -are many adversaries. Shortly I expect to suffer for my dear master. -May I not deny him in that hour! If you would please to favour me with -a line, I should be glad to continue this correspondence, and acquaint -you from time to time how the work of GOD goes on. Mr. _N――――_ will -convey any thing you shall send. May the LORD richly reward both him -and you, for your love to - - The most unprofitable of all his servants, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXVIII. - - _New York, Nov. 16, 1739._ - _Rev. Sir_, - -MR. _N――――_, and the report of your sincere love for our dear LORD -JESUS, embolden me to write this. I rejoice for the great things GOD -has done for many souls in _Northampton_. I hope, GOD willing, to come -and see them in a few months. The journal sent with this, will shew -you what the LORD is about to do in _Europe_. Now is the gathering -time. A winnowing time will shortly succeed. Persecution and the -power of religion will always keep pace. Our LORD ’s word begins to be -glorified in _America_. Many hearts gladly receive it. Oh _Rev. Sir_, -it grieves me to see people, every where ready to perish for lack -of knowledge. I care not what I suffer, so that some may be brought -home to CHRIST. I am but a stripling, but the LORD chooses the weak -things of this world to confound the strong. I should rejoice to be -instructed by you. Mr. _N――――_ will convey a letter to me――May the GOD -of all grace give you all peace and joy in believing! May he increase -you more and more, both you and your children! May you every day be -feasted, and built up with fresh anointings of his blessed spirit! And -by your fervent prayers, may you be enabled to hold up the hands of, -reverend Sir, - - Your unworthy brother, fellow labourer and servant - in our dear LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXIX. - - _New York, Nov. 16, 1739._ - _Hon. Mother_, - -LAST night GOD brought me hither in health and safety. I must not -omit informing you of it. Here is likely to be some opposition, and -consequently a likelihood that some good will be done. New friends are -raised up every day whithersoever we go; the people of _Philadelphia_ -have used me most courteously, and many I believe have been pricked -to the heart. GOD willing, I leave this place next _Monday_, and in -about a fortnight think to set out for _Virginia_ by land. In about a -twelvemonth, I propose returning to _England_; expect then to have the -happiness of seeing me suffer for my master’s sake. Oh that GOD may -enable you to rejoice in it! If you have the spirit of CHRIST you will -rejoice, if not, you will be sorrowful. Oh my honoured mother, my soul -is in distress for you: Flee, flee I beseech you to JESUS CHRIST by -faith. Lay hold on Him, and do not let Him go. GOD hath given you -convictions. Arise, arise, and never rest till they end in a sound -conversion. Dare to deny yourself. My honoured mother, I beseech you -by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS, dare to take up your cross and -follow CHRIST. - - I am, honoured mother, your ever dutiful though unworthy son, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. P――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I HAVE been much concerned since I saw you, lest I behaved not with -that humility toward you, which is due from a babe to a father in -CHRIST: but you know, reverend Sir, how difficult it is to meet with -success, and not be puffed up with it, and therefore if any such -thing was discernible in my conduct, oh pity me, and pray to the LORD -to heal my pride. All I can say is, that I desire to learn of JESUS -CHRIST to be meek and lowly in heart; but my corruptions are so strong, -and my employ so dangerous, that sometimes I am afraid. But wherefore -do I fear? He that hath given me himself, will he not freely give me -all things? By his help then I am resolved to ask till I receive, to -seek till I find, and to knock till I know myself. Blessed be GOD, -I have had a sweet retirement to search out my spirit and bewail -the infirmities of my public ministrations. Alas! who can hope to be -justified by his works? My preaching, praying, &c. are only _splendida -peccata_. The blood of CHRIST applied to my soul by a living faith, is -the only thing that can render them acceptable. This is the doctrine -which you, reverend Sir, have been enabled to preach, and for which -no doubt you have suffered reproach: But you are now almost at your -journey’s end. Yet a little while, and you shall enter into your -Master’s joy. In the mean while the LORD, I am persuaded, will keep -you as the apple of his eye. He will not forsake you when you are -grey-headed, and your strength faileth you. The moment you are ripe -for our common Master, he shall translate you to glory; _I præ, -sequar_. I am a child; I must be tutored and made meet by sufferings -to be a partaker of the heavenly inheritance with the saints in light: -But I am persuaded GOD will for CHRIST’s sake finally save, reverend -Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Brother J._, - -INDEED I love you. Why? Because I hope you are an _Israelite_ indeed; -and one of those babes to whom it has been our LORD’s good pleasure -to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of GOD. It is special; it is a -distinguishing gift. Be humble, dear _James_, be humble. Talk little, -and think much. A wise man will guide his words with discretion. Be -zealous for your dear Master. Let a zeal for his honour even eat you -up; but then beg of GOD that it may be according to knowledge. Stand -fast in the liberty wherewith CHRIST hath made you free, and be not -again entangled with a yoke of bondage. Join not one of your works -with your faith, in order to justify you before GOD: And if GOD gives -you a spirit of prayer and supplication, fear not to pray as the -spirit gives you utterance. Man may deride, but CHRIST will approve -and accept you. Dear _James_, you see I do not forget you. I hope your -little society increases, and that the LORD will always be adding to -it such as shall be saved. Salute them all most kindly in my name. -Exhort them to continue in the grace of GOD, and to pray for, dear -_James_, - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. S._, - -HAS the LORD yet heard your prayer? Often have I heard you say, “Oh! -that I had received the faith!” As often, to the best of my knowledge, -have I said, “_Amen._” Ere now, I hope our common Master has fulfilled -all your petitions, and given you your heart’s desire. If not, what -hinders? Our LORD doth not want power, for he is Almighty; he does not -want a will, for he invites you to come unto him. Search your heart, -and see what is the reason the King of glory does not enter in. Is -it too full of the world? Renounce it. Do you not ask often enough? -Resolve to ask oftener. Do you look too much to some who say they have -received faith, but do not bring forth good fruit? Henceforward look -only to GOD and your own soul. Or do you not know the reason? Ask our -LORD to shew you, and indeed he will; for he hath promised to fulfil -the desires of them that fear him. Your _Cousin_ can assure you of -this. Oh follow him, as he does CHRIST, and you will be as happy as -your heart can wish. Dear Mrs. _S――――_, I am, with all possible thanks -for past favours, - - Your obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXIII. - - _To Mrs. Martha B._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _My dear Sister_, - -I Call you not _Martha_, but MARY, for I hope you have chosen the -better part, which shall not be taken from you: And yet not so -properly may you be said to chuse, as the LORD to have chosen you; -for we love GOD, because he first loved us. I can trace my conversion -through its several steps, but cannot find one step I first took -towards GOD. I have been a backslider from my very infancy. Had not -GOD called after me, and by his spirit said unto me, as unto _Adam_, -“Where art thou? Into what a dreadful condition hast thou plunged -thyself?” I should have fled from him (if possible) for ever. I am -persuaded you, my dear Sister, can readily say the same; for otherwise -how can we truly value our LORD’s redeeming blood? How can we relish -the doctrine of GOD’s free grace, and our being freely justified by -faith which is in CHRIST JESUS? Oh let us beg of GOD to teach us these -divine truths more and more, (for he alone can teach them) and let us -lay out ourselves to teach them to others. You are happy in being in -fellowship with some, who I hope will be ready, if need be, to seal -these truths with their blood. Be humble, my dear Sister, be humble; -and cease not to pray for - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXIV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. H._, - -RACHEL brings me glad tidings: She tells me the LORD hath touched -your heart by the power of his word, and that your relations have -threatened to cast you out for our LORD’s sake. Rejoice and be -exceeding glad. If you endure to the end, and naked follow a naked -CHRIST, great shall be your reward in heaven. There is no being a -christian without enduring contempt; no being happy hereafter, without -suffering reproach here. The world can only love its own. As they hate -GOD, so they must hate those that are desirous to be like him: But be -not dismayed; CHRIST’s strength shall be magnified in your weakness: -A living faith will support you under all. When your father and mother -forsake you, the LORD will take you up. The greatest foes you will -find to be those of your own heart. Subdue these, and outward crosses -will affect you but little. To conquer yourself will be a laborious -task; but if you believe, JESUS CHRIST shall even do this for you. Get -out of yourself, rely wholly on, and be a co-worker with him, and he -shall be to you wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. -_Rachel_ greatly wishes this, but not more sincerely than - - Your friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXV. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. P._, - -WHAT a divine sympathy and attraction is there between all those who -by one spirit are made members of that mystical body, whereof JESUS -CHRIST is the head! I loved your departed wife, now with GOD. I love -your daughter, and the church in your house, in the bowels of JESUS -CHRIST. Blessed be GOD that his love is so far shed abroad in our -hearts, as to cause us to love one another, though we a little differ -as to externals: For my part, I hate to mention them. My one sole -question is, _Are you a christian?_ Are you sealed by CHRIST’s spirit -to the day of redemption? Are you hungering and thirsting after the -perfect, everlasting righteousness of JESUS CHRIST? If so, you are my -brother, my sister, and mother. I desire to love you as myself. This -is my temper; I am persuaded it is your’s. Why otherwise did you so -gladly receive me into your house? The LORD reward you and the rest of -your christian brethren. Indeed I am present with you in spirit, and -wish you good luck in the name of the LORD. O be not slack to praise -him in my behalf; for I have experienced some rich anointings of -his holy spirit, and have been made to see more into the wonders of -redeeming love. Did I know more of your names, I would write to more. -This is my comfort, I trust our names are written in the book of life. -Yet a little while, and we shall sit down together in the kingdom of -our Father. A place, though on a lower form, is, I humbly hope, -prepared for - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXVI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. H._, - -IF I remember, you used to express a great value for my person and -doctrine, otherwise why should you desire a line from such a wretch -as I am? When I look into myself, and consider how poor and miserable, -and blind and naked my soul is, I wonder that any one should pay me -the least regard. But what shall we say? GOD will have mercy upon -whom he will have mercy. I am entirely indebted to free grace for all -I have, am, or shall be. You also, I trust, dear Sir, are ready to -subscribe to this; for what have we but what we have received? What -should we have been had GOD left us to ourselves? Oh let a sense of -this free, distinguishing love constrain us to obedience: A christian -needs no other motive. That is a true gospel-faith which works by love. -I often think it almost presumption to think of rewards in a future -state; my Master amply rewards me in this: But present mercies are -only earnests of future favours. Be not therefore, dear Sir, weary of -well-doing, for in due time we shall reap, if we faint not. The LORD -hath multiplied his favours towards me since I saw you last. We have -had a long but pleasant and profitable voyage. Oh sing praises unto -our GOD in behalf of, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXVII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mrs. A._, - -THESE words of the psalmist, “Let us rejoice in the strength of our -salvation,” often come with great power and comfort upon my soul. You -and I need take much notice of them: For otherwise how often should -we have fallen away from GOD since our first looking Zion-wards? But -the LORD as he loves us freely, so he will heal our backslidings. -He neither will let us fall into sin or error, so as finally to -destroy our souls. GOD forbid this should encourage us in sin. It -is only intended to support us in danger, and to strengthen us under -temptations. Since there is such infinite mercy with GOD, it is a -cogent reason why he should be loved and feared; but not why he should -be disobeyed: And since GOD has lately led you out of delusion, be -more watchful over yourself, my dear Sister, to follow those who truly -shew you the way of salvation.――To hear of your standing stedfast in -the LORD, will highly delight - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. R. E._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Rev. and Dear Sir_, - -THE cordial and tender love which I bear you, will not permit me to -neglect any opportunity of sending to you. I bless the LORD from my -soul, for raising you and several other burning and shining lights to -appear for him in this midnight of the church. My heart has been much -warmed during my voyage, by reading some of your sermons, especially -that preached before the associate presbytery. I long more and more to -hear the rise and progress of your proceedings, and how far you would -willingly carry the reformation of the church of _Scotland_. There -are some expressions which I suppose will be interpreted to your -disadvantage, both by your domestic and foreign enemies. I should be -glad to know who are those martyrs to which you refer, and of what -nature those _covenants_ were which you mention in your sermon. My -ignorance of the constitution of the _Scotch_ church is the cause of -my writing after this manner. I should be obliged to you, if you would -be pleased to recommend to me some useful books, especially such which -open the holy sacrament; for in GOD’s law is my delight. _Boston’s -fourfold State of Man_ I like exceedingly. Under GOD it has been -of much service to my soul. I believe I agree with you and him -in the essential truths of christianity. I bless GOD, his spirit -has convinced me of our eternal election by the Father through -the Son, of our free justification through faith in his blood, of -our sanctification as the consequence of that, and of our final -perseverance and glorification as the result of all. These I am -persuaded GOD has joined together; these, neither men nor devils shall -ever be able to put asunder. My only scruple at present is, “Whether -you approve of taking the sword in defence of your religious rights?” -One of our _English_ bishops I remember, when I was with him, called -you _Cameronians_. They, I think, took up arms, which I think to be -contrary to the spirit of JESUS CHRIST and his apostles. Some few -passages in your sermon before the presbytery, I thought were a little -suspicious of favouring that principle. I pray GOD your next may -inform me that I am mistaken: For when zeal carries us to such a -length, I think it ceases to be zeal according to knowledge. Dearest -Sir, be not angry at my writing thus freely. I love, I honour you in -the bowels, and for the sake of JESUS CHRIST, from my soul. I wish you -good luck in all your pious undertakings. I pray GOD to prosper the -works of your hands, and to make you a noble instrument in bringing -many sons to glory. Pray send an immediate answer, directed as usual, -and care will be taken to have it remitted to, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate brother, friend, fellow-labourer, - and obliged servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXXXIX. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Brother_, - -IT is much upon my heart to send you a line. Although you are not with -me, yet as GOD was pleased to touch you by my unworthy ministry, I -love you with a peculiar love. Business prevented my writing to you -when in _Yorkshire_. I was sorry to hear that Brother _J――――_ had -reason to blame your conduct. My dear brother, be not offended, if in -the meekness and gentleness of CHRIST, I exhort you to be sober-minded. -Follow after, but do not run before the blessed Spirit; if you do, -although you may benefit others, and GOD may over-rule every thing for -your good, yet you will certainly destroy the peace of your own soul. -GOD has been pleased to call you by his grace, and to give you joy -in the Holy Ghost: But, my brother, I hope it will be more settled -and substantial, and joined with meekness and humility of heart. A -joy which is the result of inward trials, and flowing from a long -experience of the buffeting of satan. Such a joy will make you apt -and fit to teach, and keep you from being puffed up above measure. It -will exalt, at the same time as it humbles your soul. The LORD direct -my dear brother in all things: I wish all his servants were prophets; -but let every one be rightly persuaded of his call to public teaching. -It is dangerous to touch the ark, though it be falling, without a -commission from above. But no more. I am - - Your most affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXL. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. B._, - -YOUR kind present of flour has been of singular use to me and my -family; I pray GOD, in return, to feed you with that bread which -cometh down from heaven. You are one of my first and choicest friends. -You have not been ashamed to own me, or to attend on my ministry. -It will wonderfully rejoice me, to see you exalted at our LORD’s -right-hand in a future state. The way you know. JESUS CHRIST is the -way, the truth, and the life. Through faith in his blood shall you -have free access into the holy of holies. I hope dear Mr. _B._ is not -in the number of those, who want to make a Saviour of their own works, -and thereby deny the LORD, who has so dearly bought them with his -precious blood: No, I am persuaded you are more noble. Mr. _B――――_ -has not so learnt CHRIST. He is willing, I trust, to ascribe his -salvation to GOD’s free grace, and to let JESUS CHRIST be all in all. -I hope your brother, and those young men you brought with you out of -_Spittlefields_, are likewise thus minded. Though absent, yet I do -not forget them. O exhort them from me, to save themselves from this -untoward generation. My dear friend, do you go before them, and let -them learn of you how to walk with GOD. It is a difficult thing to -be a christian indeed. Numbers are _Pharisees_, and do not know it. I -pray GOD you may be delivered from them, and be made experimentally to -know that no one can call JESUS CHRIST “his LORD,” till he has really -received the Holy Ghost. I could dwell on this, but other business -obliges me to hasten to subscribe myself, dear Mr. _B――――_, - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLI. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Reverend Sir_, - -I AM not willing to go on shore till I have performed my promise, -and sent you a line. I heartily wish I could write something which -might advance the glory of GOD and the good of his church. As we both -profess ourselves ministers of the gospel, these two things ought -to be our chief and only concern, and more especially at this time, -when men seek their own and not the things of the LORD JESUS. Oh, -_dear Sir_, the care of souls I find to be a matter of the greatest -importance. You have a great number committed to your charge. What -a dreadful thing will it be for any of them to perish through your -neglect? And yet I fear, Sir, you do not walk worthy of the holy -vocation wherewith you are called. It is no good report that I hear -of you in common life. Your practice contradicts your doctrine, and -what good can you do, if every one of your parishioners, whilst you -are preaching, may reply, “Physician heal thyself?” Besides, Sir, -how can you preach CHRIST to others, when you are a stranger to his -power yourself? It is next to impossible. I make no apology for this -plainness of speech. Simplicity becomes embassadors of CHRIST. I am, -reverend Sir, - - Your obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Dear Mr. G._, - -INDEED I love you, though it was so long before I came to see you. -Want of time, not of respect, was the cause. GOD is my judge how -earnestly I long after your salvation, and how willingly I would spend -and be spent in order to promote it. Oh how closely does true faith -in JESUS CHRIST our head, knit all his members in love to one another; -what a divine harmony and attraction is there between them, when they -have drank into and been made partakers of one and the same spirit? -How does the love of GOD dilate and enlarge their hearts! How do all -little distinctions about externals fall away, and every other name -is swallowed up in the name of JESUS CHRIST? This, my dear brother, is -that catholic spirit, which will cement all denominations of sincere -professors together. This is the spirit of which free distinguishing -grace has made you a partaker, and which I pray GOD we both may -partake of every day more and more. He is faithful who has promised, -who also will do it. I find it is not in vain that we have believed -in JESUS. He is GOD, and his work is perfect; his love is like himself -unchangeable; his gifts and callings are without repentance, and -therefore, though I am but a babe in CHRIST, yet I am persuaded I -shall see you crowned with glory. Then, my dear brother, we shall -have time enough together. Then, there will be no parting, no fear of -falling; but we shall drink eternally of those pleasures which flow -from GOD’s right hand for evermore. Supported with this hope, what -hinders but I may come once again, when the LORD permits, and offer -CHRIST’s everlasting righteousness to poor perishing sinners. The -devil and his servants will rage horribly, and perhaps cast me into -prison, nay, put me to death: But if you will come and visit me, by -the help of my GOD, I will preach to you even there; for I am not -ashamed of the gospel of CHRIST. I have felt it to be the power of -GOD unto my salvation. Oh, my brother, the fire kindles whilst I am -writing; but I must have done. Pray salute those dear souls that I -spoke to at your house, and all other friends. Entreat them to pray -and give thanks for me; and assure them they are not forgotten by - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLIII. - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ - _Mr. H――――_, - -AS you stand so nearly related to your daughter, who is with me, -though I am unknown to you in person, yet I make bold to send you a -line to inform you of her welfare. I find she did not confer much with -you about her intended voyage; but I hope both you and her will have -great reason to rejoice in the end. GOD has been pleased to visit her -with some illness, but now she is perfectly recovered. What is best -of all, I hope her soul prospers, and is fitting more day by day for -the enjoyment of GOD. This was the chief end of her going abroad, and -give me leave to tell you, this is the chief thing you ought, and must -pursue at home. But why do I say at home? A christian hath no home -but heaven. He is a stranger and pilgrim while here on earth. I hope -you know better, Mr. _H――――_, than to think you was born to drive a -team, or plough a piece of ground. These things must be done, but then -they should be done in subordination to the care of your better part, -the soul. Your daughter tells me, you are now grey headed. Take heed, -dear Mr. _H――――_, to make your calling and election sure. Rest not -in outward things. Do not flatter yourself that you are a christian, -because you go to church, and do no one any harm. Nothing but a living -faith in CHRIST JESUS our dear LORD, can qualify you for eternal life. -Without this, GOD will be to us a consuming fire; and unless we are -born again, and made new creatures in CHRIST, we never shall enter -into the kingdom of GOD. If you know not what I mean by these terms, -you may depend upon it, you are a stranger to this new-birth, and -consequently in a state of death: but you need not fear; even at the -eleventh hour CHRIST will accept you, if you come to him by faith. He -hath shewn mercy to your son and daughter. Why may he not shew mercy -to their father also? Whosoever cometh to him, he will in no-wise cast -out. Haste then, dear Sir, out of your spiritual _Sodom_. Linger not. -Nothing will more rejoice your dear children, than to see you brought -to an experimental knowledge of the truth, that you may be saved. For -their sakes, you are particularly remembered by - - Your unknown but sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. P――――._ - - _Upper Marlborough (Mary Land) Dec. 8, 1739_. - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -TILL now, I have neither had leisure nor freedom to answer your kind -letter. Blessed be GOD, who has opened the hearts of some of his -people at _New York_ to receive the word. May he enable you to water -what his own right hand hath planted, and grant to your labours a -divine increase! Indeed I wish you good luck in the name of the LORD. -I wish all his servants were prophets. Oh that he would be pleased -to send forth experimental labourers into his harvest:――for I fear -amongst you, as well as in other places, there are many who are -well versed in the doctrines of grace, having learned them at the -university, but notwithstanding are heart-hypocrites, and enemies -to the power of godliness.――_Dear Sir_, I use this freedom, because -I love simplicity. I confess I am but a child in grace, as well as -years. Pardon this freedom, for out of the fulness and sincerity of my -heart my pen writeth.――I thank your son and _dear Mr. S――――_ for what -they did on my account. Alas, I fear they think too highly of me. Oh -dear Sir, entreat the GOD of all grace to give me humility, so shall -success not prove my ruin. My most cordial respects and hearty thanks -attend dear _Mrs. P――――_, I pray GOD in all things to make her a -help meet for you――As fast as I can snatch a few moments from public -business, more _New York friends_ may expect to hear from me――A sense -of their favours is still upon my heart――I would willingly remember -them, whenever I go in and out before the LORD. Mr. _N――――_’s letter, -and my next journal, will acquaint you, how the LORD JESUS has been -getting himself the victory, since I left _New York_――There has been -such little opposition, that I have been tempted almost to cry out, -“Satan, why sleepest thou?” But GOD pities my weakness. Oh, dear Sir, -thank him in my behalf, for indeed he deals most lovingly with, Rev. -Sir, - - Your most unworthy brother and fellow-labourer, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLV. - - _Upper Marlborough, Dec. 8, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Cannot defer writing to dear Mr. _N――――_ any longer.――This afternoon -GOD brought us hither. Some are solicitous for my staying here -to-morrow. As it seems to be a call from providence, I have complied -with their request. Oh that I may be enabled to lift up my voice like -a trumpet, and to speak with the demonstration of the spirit and with -power. These parts are in a dead sleep. At _Anapolis_, I preached -twice, and spoke home to some ladies concerning the vanity of their -false politeness. But alas, they are wedded to their _Quadrille_ and -_Ombre_. The minister of the place was under convictions――He wept -twice, and earnestly begged my prayers. He will not frighten people I -believe with harsh doctrine,――he loves to prophesy smooth things.――GOD -blessed the word wonderfully at _Philadelphia_. I have great reason -to think many are brought home to GOD. When I return, it will then be -seen, who has received the word into an honest and good heart. By the -divine assistance, I propose revisiting _Philadelphia_, _New York_, -and to go as far as _Boston_, and so return to _Georgia_, before I -take shipping again for _England_――The LORD direct my going in his -way! About _May_ you may expect to see me. My dear friend, pray -that I may so improve the time of my absence, that at my return my -progress may be made known to all men. It shames me to see what little -proficiency I have made in the school of CHRIST. If I do not begin -to press forwards, how shall I appear before my blessed LORD? I feel -myself to be the chief of sinners; surely never was a greater instance -of redeeming distinguishing love. GOD forbid that I should glory in -any thing but free grace: had not GOD plucked me as a brand out of the -fire, I had now either been given over to a reprobate mind, or cast -into a place of torment. Oh help me, help me, _dearest Mr. N――――_, -help me to be thankful, and accept my thanks, though late, for all -favours received when at _New York_. Indeed I love you in the bowels -of our dear LORD JESUS. Salute your dear wife my kind hostess: exhort -her to be severely kind to her little boy.――My most cordial respects -attend all who ask after me. Entreat them to continue their prayers, -dearest Mr. _N――――_, for - - Your weak, but affectionate friend, brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLVI. - - _To Mr. B――――._ - - _Upper Marlborough, Dec. 8, 1739._ - _Dear Sir_, - -GRATITUDE obliges me to send you a letter of thanks for your last kind -present, and all other favours; but the love of our LORD JESUS CHRIST -constrains me to write to you, exhorting you earnestly to contend -for the faith once delivered to the saints. I humbly hope the LORD -has been pleased to bless my coming in these parts to many, and -amongst them to you also. It rejoiced me to find dear _Mr. B――――_ -was convinced that I preached the truth as it is in JESUS. It pleased -me exceedingly, to find how his eyes were opened to see the direct -contrariety there is, between the spirit of CHRIST and the spirit of -the world. What has my dear friend now to do, but to prosecute these -convictions, and never rest till they end in a sound conversion. GOD -has given you richly all things to enjoy. Be persuaded henceforward -not to be so cumbered about the many trifles of this life, as to -neglect the one thing needful, Dare, Sir, to be singularly good, Oh -dare to let your light shine before men――Be not ashamed of CHRIST -and his gospel. Come out from your carnal acquaintance, and live as -becomes a true follower of our LORD JESUS. Dear _Mr. B――――_, I hope -will join with you. GOD’s spirit has been and is now striving with his -heart. I pray GOD to make this the accepted time, and cause it to be -the day of his salvation. How will it fill me with joy at my return -to _Philadelphia_, to see dear _Mr. B――――_ and some other excellent -well-meaning people, whom I love, become despised followers of the -Lamb of GOD. If my prayers may be any ways assisting, as GOD shall -enable me you may depend on them――Our dear friend _B――――_ can inform -you what GOD has done for us, since we saw you. One favour more I beg -of you; give thanks as well as pray for - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLVII. - - _To Captain B――――._ - - _Williamsburgh, (Virginia) Dec. 15, 1739._ - -HITHER GOD brought us last night; I trust the same gracious being, -by his good providence, has conducted you safe to _Philadelphia_. -I cannot say, I have met with so much as even an _almost christian_, -since I parted from you, till I came to _Colonel Whiting_’s――There, -GOD put in my way a planter, that is seeking to know the way of GOD -more perfectly――He is now with us, and I hope our conversation will -be blessed unto him. Oh dear _Mr. B――――_, strive, I beseech you by the -mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS, strive to enter in at the strait gate. -GOD of late has loudly called you――Take heed that neither the lust of -the eye, the lust of the flesh, nor the pride of life prevail on you -to lie down in a carnal security again. I am confident you will be -most heartily despised, if you are a real christian; but dear _Mr. -B――――_’s resolution will be built on a better foundation, than to let -a little breath blow it down. In CHRIST is your strength; look up to -him day by day, and as your day is, so shall your strength be. I fear -and pray for you. GOD only knows, how often you have been upon my -heart. We have not failed interceding for you at the throne of grace. -I shall be much mistaken, if _Mr. B――――_ does not prove a christian -indeed. About _May_ I propose, GOD willing, to be with you again. Then -I shall rejoice to sit and hear you tell what GOD has done for your -soul――Be not afraid of conviction. Be not afraid of inward feelings. -Now pray to the LORD JESUS, to lay the ax of mortification to the root -of your heart. Make thorough work with it. Do not spare yourself in -the least.――Now is the accepted time, and that it may be the day of -salvation, is the earnest prayer of, dear _Mr. B――――_, - - Your obliged affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. G―――― T――――._ - - _Williamsburgh, Dec. 15, 1739._ - _My dear Brother_, - -BE not angry because you have not heard from me. Indeed I love and -honour you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. You are seldom out of my -thoughts; but till now I have not had liberty given me, to send you a -line――I trust the work goes on gloriously in your parts. The hand of -the LORD brought wondrous things to pass, before we left _Pensilvania_; -but in these parts satan seems to lead people captive at his will. The -distance of the plantations prevents people’s assembling themselves -together.――Here are no great towns, as in other provinces, and the -commonalty is made up of _Negroes_ and _convicts_, and if they pretend -to serve GOD, their masters, _Pharaoh_ like, cry out, “Ye are idle, -ye are idle.” Last night I read the affecting account of your brother -_John_; let me die, O LORD, the death of that righteous man, and let -my future state be like his! O my dear friend, my brother, entreat the -LORD that I may grow in grace, and pick up the fragments of my time, -that not a moment of it may be lost. Teach me, oh teach me the way of -GOD more perfectly. Rebuke, reprove, exhort me with all authority――I -feel I am but a babe in CHRIST. I long to know more of the holy JESUS. -He has manifested himself to my soul, both in a way of humiliation and -exaltation. Since I saw you, both his rod and staff have comforted me. -At present, he makes me young and lively as an eagle; I only wish I -was more worthy to subscribe myself - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXLIX. - - _To Mrs. C._ - - _Newton, Cape Fear, Dec. 28, 1739._ - _My dear Sister in CHRIST_, - -JUST now we have been singing the hymn, which we sung at _Broad-oak_; -and as I generally do at such seasons, I thought of that happy -time wherein we sung it in your great hall. It was a time much to -be remembered, an anticipation, I believe, of that blessed time -when we all shall meet to sing the song of the Lamb in the heavenly -Jerusalem――For the adoption of the spirit, if truly received, is the -earnest of our promised inheritance. We are sealed thereby to the -day of redemption, and therefore may give both men and devils the -challenge to separate us, if they can, from the love of GOD which is -in CHRIST JESUS our LORD――I am verily persuaded, that since I left -you, all things have worked together for your good. As I am travelling, -often does my soul think both of you and yours, and out of the fulness -of my heart, do I often pour forth this or such like petitions, -“Dearest LORD, be for ever gracious to the houshold of ――――!” My -conscience hath smote me frequently, for not writing you a longer -letter. I send this to ask pardon, and to assure you how often you -and your daughters are upon my heart, when I go in and out before the -LORD――I long to hear how the LORD JESUS hath magnified his strength in -your weakness. It would fill a volume to tell his goodness and truth; -and my base ingratitude sometimes comes with such conviction upon my -heart, that I can scarce forbear getting off my horse, and humbling -myself in the way side. Indeed, I am the chief of sinners, and yet -overflowing hath the LORD JESUS been in his love. You will hear more -soon by the journal which will be sent. Dear _Mrs. C――――_, my love to -all. - - Your affectionate though unworthy brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CL. - - _Savannah, Jan. 16, 1740._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -WITH much pleasure (tho’ not till last week) I received your kind -affectionate letter. I thank you for it with all my soul, and pray GOD -to reward you for this, and all other your works of faith and labours -of love. You may depend on my not being prejudiced against you or -your brethren, by any evil report. They only endear you to me more -and more; and were your enemies to represent you as black as hell, -I should think you were the more glorious in the sight of heaven. -Your sweet criticisms and remarks upon my journal and sermons, were -exceeding acceptable, and very just. I assure you, dear Sir, I am -fully convinced of the doctrine of election, free justification, and -final perseverance. My observations on the Quakers, were only intended -for those particular persons with whom I then conversed. The tenets -of the quakers in general, about _justification_, I take to be false -and unscriptural. Your adversaries need take no advantage against you, -by any thing I have written; for I think it every minister’s duty to -declare against the corruptions of that church to which they belong, -and not to look upon those as true members of their communion, who -deny its publick constitutions. This is your case in _Scotland_, -and ours in _England_. I see no other way for us to act at present, -than to go on preaching the truth as it is in JESUS; and then if our -brethren cast us out, GOD will direct us to take that course which -is most conducive to his glory, and his people’s good. I think I have -but one objection against your proceedings; “Your insisting only on -_presbyterian government_, exclusive of all other ways of worshipping -GOD.” Will not this, _dear Sir_, necessarily lead you (whenever you -get the upper-hand) to oppose and persecute all that differ from you -in their church government, or outward way of worshipping GOD? Our -dear brother and fellow-labourer Mr. _G―――― T――――_ thinks this will -be the consequence, and said he would write to you about it. As for -my own part, (though I profess myself a minister of the church of -_England_) I am of a _catholic spirit_; and if I see a man who loves -the LORD JESUS in sincerity, I am not very solicitous to what outward -communion he belongs. The kingdom of GOD, I think, does not consist -in any such thing. These are my sentiments, dear Sir, and I write them -out of love――I am ashamed (because only a babe in CHRIST) to pretend -as it were to direct; but true friendship needs no apology. GOD -is doing great things in _America_. My journal, which I send over -with this, will shew you what he has done already. Your welfare is -much upon my heart, and as I am enabled, I make mention of you in my -prayers. Affairs of the Orphan-house go on well. Some few, even _here_, -love the LORD JESUS. Oh, dear Sir, pray for us, and especially for - - Your weak unworthy brother and fellow-labourer in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLI. - - _Savannah, Jan. 22, 1740._ - _My Hon. Friend and Brother in CHRIST_, - -YOUR last letter quite confounded me. What am I, that I should be -thus highly favoured! I can only say, that “Less than the least of -all GOD’s mercies,” shall be my motto still. I have experienced many -inward trials, since I saw you last. But I find they work continually -for my good. I rejoice in what our dear LORD JESUS has done for your -soul. May a double portion of his blessed spirit rest upon you; may -our glorious ever-blessed _Emanuel_ cause all his glory to pass before -you, and may you be filled with all the fulness of GOD! Since my -arrival here, I have received a sweet endearing instructive letter -from _Mr. Ralph E――――_; I have answered it, and told him you promised -to write about the necessity of a catholic spirit. _ Dr. C――――_ also -has favoured me with a loving epistle. I have received and read his -sermons since I saw you: they are acute and pointed, but I think not -searching enough by many degrees――My dear brother, I love writers that -go to the bottom――GOD willing, I hope to be with you at the synod――But -what think you? I am sometimes doubting, whether I shall have -sufficient matter given me to preach upon. Methinks I hear you say, -“O thou of little faith! wherefore dost thou doubt? As thy day is, so -shall thy strength be.” _Michael_ and the dragon, I hear, are carrying -on war most bravely in _England_. I really believe we shall not die, -till we see the kingdom of GOD come with power. The affairs of the -orphan-house are in great forwardness. I have much to say; but time -and business will not permit. Blessed be GOD, eternity is at hand, -and then we shall have time enough. I have read some of your books -to my great profit. I want to be taught the way of GOD more perfectly -all the day long. My tenderest respects await the brethren; my dear -fellow-travellers salute you――You are often remembered both by them, -and - - Your affectionate though very weak and unworthy brother, - servant and fellow-labourer in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 24, 1740_ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Received your kind, though undeserving letter, and now snatch a few -moments from my other avocations, in order to send you a short answer. -May GOD who knits the elect in one communion and fellowship, sanctify -our friendship and correspondence to the stirring up each other to -love and to good works!――It pleased me to find you breathe so catholic -a spirit.――O that bigotry and party zeal were not so much as once -named amongst us, as becometh saints! Since CHRIST is not divided in -himself, why should christians be divided one amongst another? Bigotry, -I am sure, can never be the fruit of that wisdom which cometh from -above.――No, it is earthly, sensual, and devilish. When I come to _New -England_ I shall endeavour to recommend an universal charity amongst -all the true members of CHRIST’s mystical body. Perhaps therefore, -the fields may be the most unexceptionable place to preach in. You and -your brethren, I am persuaded, will follow our LORD even without the -camp, and rejoice to bear his sacred reproach. Assist me, dear Sir, -in your prayers, that my coming may be in the fulness of the gospel -of peace――I shall come only with my sling and with my stone.――If -the LORD shall be pleased so to direct me, that I may strike some -self-righteous _Goliahs_ to the heart, I know you will rejoice with, -Rev. and dear Sir, - - Yours most affectionately in the love of our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLIII. - - _To Mr. W. D._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _My dear Brother in CHRIST_, - -BLESSED be GOD, for the good report I hear of your zeal for our dear -_Emanuel_. Go on, I beseech you by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS; -go on, and I am persuaded the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in -your hands. If I am thrown aside as a broken vessel, so I see you and -others stirred up to carry on our dear LORD ’s kingdom, if my heart -does not deceive me, I shall rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. GOD -blesses the affairs of the orphan-house. The work is large, but we -have omnipotence for our support.――I believe I shall take in near -fifty children. GOD lets me see every day, that he orders my goings. -He visits me with inward trials; but if I had not such thorns in -the flesh, what would become of me? Fear not to speak the truth; if -driven out of _England_, here is a noble range for you in _America_. -At present I am restrained; but I could not rest, without letting you -have a line from - - Your most affectionate friend brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLIV. - - _To Mrs. D._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _Dear Madam_, - -I Rejoice to hear that you are likely to be cast out of your mother’s -Will _only_ for following CHRIST. This may be only the beginning -of temptations. GOD, I believe, out of love will try you to the -uttermost. You have drank deep of heavenly comforts; you must pledge -our LORD in his cup of sufferings. Those who saw him on mount _Tabor_ -afterwards were with him in the garden. But fear not――The LORD is with -you――Neither men nor devils shall hurt you. The sweet communion we -have had with GOD, and through him with one another, often comforts my -soul. Who knows, but that time may be again repeated? Indeed, I want -words as well as time to express with what thankfulness I desire to -subscribe myself, dear madam, - - Your unworthy brother and obliged servant in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLV. - - _To Captain M._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Rejoice to hear of your good health, and take this opportunity of -sending you Mr. _Law_’s and Mr. _Haliburton_’s life; which I pray GOD -to sanctify to your benefit and comfort. I hope you will watch over -your heart, and take care to keep up those convictions, which GOD -once put into your soul. I am afraid of Mr. _B._ The world, the world -I fear has got hold of him. Dear Captain _M――――_, I trust, will not -desert his Master.――I am sure he would die, rather than prove false to -an earthly prince.――Oh let him not desert his dear Redeemer’s colours. -Dear Sir, beg of GOD to root out of your heart a desire for that -honour which cometh of man. Till dead to the world you will not be -alive to GOD. _Honour_, falsely so called, has destroyed millions. -That you may be never carried away with, or ruined by it, is the -hearty prayer of, dear Sir, - - Your’s, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLVI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. W. T._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _My dear and honoured Brother_, - -BLESSED be GOD, who hath pleasure in the prosperity of his -servants.――I am abased to think what our all-gracious Redeemer hath -done by my unworthy hands, and rejoice to hear that he is working by -your’s. Oh that you may experience fresh anointings and teaching from -above! O that you may be strengthened by GOD’s mighty power in the -inner man, and pull down satan’s strong-holds daily. GOD willing, -I hope to be with you at the Synod. I find as yet I scarce know any -thing; but if I give out of my little stock, I trust the LORD will -increase it, as he did the little lad’s loaves and fishes. My journal, -which I have sent to _Philadelphia_, will tell you what GOD has done -in _Maryland_ and _Virginia_. A foundation of great things I believe -is laying here. Oh pray that a sense of his own littleness, may be -given to - - Your affectionate, though unworthy brother and - fellow-labourer in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLVII. - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _My dear Sister_, - -I Rejoice to hear that you are enabled to see not only the freeness -but eternal duration of GOD’s grace. Till the sinner is convinced of -this, I am persuaded he can neither work from a principle of true love, -nor give JESUS CHRIST the honour due unto his name. He must always be -making his salvation to depend _partly_ at least on his own doings; -“If I do so and so, JESUS CHRIST will give me his grace:” But can -any believer who knows himself, help confessing, that after he -had received grace, he should have finally fallen from it, had the -continuance of it depended on his own will? Indeed, my dear Sister, -nothing so much comforts my own soul as the thought that GOD will -never leave me nor forsake me; if he does, it must be for my -unworthiness: But on that account it cannot be; for he never chose me -on account of my unworthiness. He loved me freely, he prevented me by -his grace; he chose me from eternity, he called me in time, and I am -persuaded will keep me till time shall be no more.――This consideration -makes my faith to work by love. Now, I can live not barely upon my -frames, which notwithstanding are blessed things, but on the promises. -Now, I can go on my way rejoicing, and, amidst all dejections, lift up -my head in prospect of a certain and exceeding weight of glory. Though -I fall, I know I shall rise again; for he that is brought truly to -believe on JESUS CHRIST, his faith shall never die. The LORD JESUS -will not suffer to be lost the purchase of his blood. He knew for whom -he died, and neither men nor devils shall ever pluck them out of his -hands. Such as have been taught most of GOD, I find, are thus minded. -And I am persuaded were the effects of our LORD’s redemption to depend -on a man’s own compliance, or was the continuance of GOD’s grace -to depend solely on man’s improvement, JESUS CHRIST would have died -in vain. _Adam_ could not stand in paradise when left to his own -free-will, how then can we? No, blessed be GOD, our salvation is put -into better hands than our own. JESUS CHRIST has purchased not only -wisdom, righteousness, and sanctification, but also eternal redemption -for us. Let this thought, my dear Sister, lift up our hands when they -hang down, and strengthen our feeble knees; GOD’s gifts and callings -are without repentance. There is no condemnation to them that are -truly in CHRIST JESUS. And I write thus peremptorily to you, because -I find now you are able to bear it.――Blessed be GOD! my dear Sister, -flesh and blood has not revealed this unto you. I hope ere long our -brethren will lay all carnal reasoning aside, and see and preach the -truth in this respect, as it is in JESUS. My kindest love to your -sister.――What I write to one, I write to both. The LORD direct your -going in his way, and cause you to continue instant in prayer for - - Your weak brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLVIII. - - _To Mrs. Elizabeth W――――._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _My dear Sister_, - -I Have been just reading over your letter, and felt a sweet sympathy -with the writer. Oh that it may increase till we are filled with all -the fulness of GOD! Some passages in your letter were dangerous to -my soul. Whenever you see any growth of grace, pray that I may grow -in humility in particular. Oh that I was lowly in heart! Honour -and dishonour, good report and evil report would then be alike, -and prove a furtherance to me in my christian cause.――I believe the -time is shortly coming in which I am to endure something for my LORD -and Master; then will I cry out, Who is on the LORD’s side? Nothing -supports me under a prospect of a trying time, so much as a sense of -GOD’s everlasting love. I am persuaded, that neither men nor devils -shall ever pluck me out of his Almighty hands. Let this support you, -my dear Sister, in your change of life. Wherever you are, I am -confident you will have reason to say, “Surely GOD is in this place.” -That you may wax stronger and stronger, and ripen daily for glory, is -the hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate brother and servant in our dear _Emanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLIX. - - _To Mr. J. N._ - - _Savannah, Jan. 31, 1740._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Hope you will excuse my not answering your kind letter sooner.――The -many avocations that at present surround me, prevented it. I rejoice -to hear that our LORD JESUS is getting himself the victory in the -hearts of poor sinners. I hope many will now rejoice in his salvation. -One good sign is, that he has employed the meanest, as well as vilest -wretch, that he ever yet sent forth.――When I hear that any good is -done by my unworthy hands, it almost makes me to blush.――Oh that I -could humble myself in the dust, that the LORD alone may be exalted in -his strength. I purpose to revisit _New-York_ at the appointed time. -You told me, “Our LORD has not sent me into his vineyard at my own -charge.” Indeed, I always find he furnishes me with things convenient: -Nay, he is often so abundant in goodness and truth, that I am obliged -to cry out in holy admiration, “My LORD and my GOD!” Dear Sir, help me -to be thankful. Blessed be GOD, the Orphan-house affairs succeed well. -Many souls will be redeemed by it from temporal, and I trust, from -eternal bondage. I have taken in upwards of twenty children already, -and I take in more daily.――I am building a large house, have many -servants, and a good stock of cattle. It will cost much money.――But -our LORD will see to that. My friends at _New-York_ will assist me -when I come amongst them. Oh that my coming may be in the fulness of -the blessings of the gospel of peace! I am persuaded, you will not be -wanting in your prayers on behalf of, dear Sir, - - Your obliged friend and servant in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLX. - - _To Mrs. Elizabeth D――――._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 1, 1740._ - _My dear Sister in CHRIST_, - -I Generally observe that whom the LORD loves, for the most part he -keeps from preferment.――Your grandmother cannot do any more than -she is permitted. It is GOD’s free grace alone, that has made the -difference between us and others. Oh that we were duly sensible of -electing love! Indeed it must necessarily constrain us to obedience. I -am glad you like _Boehm_. His works are truly evangelical, and afford -sweet nourishment to the new-born soul. The nearer we come to GOD, -the better we shall relish searching books. It is an evident sign of -a false heart, when it is unwilling to be probed. Blessed be GOD, you -are not thus minded. I trust the LORD JESUS has apprehended you, and -will henceforward never let you go. O that I may hear of your growth -in grace, and of your zeal for the LORD OF HOSTS.――You do well to go -about doing good; your Master did so before you. Dare, _dear Miss_, to -follow his good example, and never fear the revilings of men. Set your -face as a flint against all the adversaries of our LORD; for shortly -you shall tread all your enemies under feet. I beseech you by the -mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS our Saviour, to keep up a close walk -and communion with GOD. Nothing else can preserve you from idols; -and you know when once the soul is off its watch, the devil makes sad -ravages in it. There is nothing I dread more than having my heart -drawn away by earthly objects.――When that time comes, it will be over -with me indeed; I must then bid adieu to zeal and fervency of spirit, -and in effect, bid the LORD JESUS to depart from me. For alas, what -room can there be for GOD, when a rival hath taken possession of the -heart? Oh my dear Sister, pray that no such evil may befal me. My -blood runs cold at the very thought thereof. I cannot, indeed; I -cannot away with it. In a multiplicity of business, have I wrote you -these lines. I thank you for your kind letter, and hope I shall always -retain a grateful sense of the many favours I have received from your -dear family. My kindest respects attend your sister; I long to hear -of her being brought into the glorious liberty of the children of GOD. -How does your father? Oh that he may have a well-grounded interest -in CHRIST! How does my dear brother _Charles_? I pray GOD to fill him -with all joy and peace in believing. And how does your little sister? -Dearest Redeemer, keep her unspotted from the world! My heart is now -full. Writing quickens me. I could almost drop a tear, and wish myself, -for a moment or two, in _England_. But hush, nature: GOD here pours -down his blessings on - - Your sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D. R._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 4, 1740._ - _My reverend and dear Brother_, - -I Received your kind letter just on my arrival at this place.――My -journal, which I suppose you will have read ere this reaches _Wales_, -can best inform you what GOD hath done for my own and other people’s -souls.――Even here, he is pleased to be with and assist us. The Orphan- -house goes on bravely. I believe I shall take in near fifty children -before I return to _England_. He that feedeth the young ravens which -call upon him, will not suffer them to want.――I rejoice to hear that -the LORD JESUS is so publicly confessed among your countrymen.――If -the LORD is pleased to send me, I shall gladly take a tour into -_Wales_.――In this time of retirement, I expect many inward conflicts. -How otherwise shall I be prepared for future mercies? Experience of -GOD’s work upon our own souls, is the best qualification to preach it -effectually to others. In about two months I take another tour round -_America_. The gospel, I believe, will come with power in these parts. -I expect to suffer in the flesh for what hath been done already: But -what have we to do with the consequences of performing our duty? Leave -them to GOD. Oh, my dear brother, pray for me that my faith fail not, -and then I care not what persecution befals - - Your weak unworthy brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXII. - - _To Mr. H. H._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 4, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -WILL this find you in prison or not? Your last letter (which I -received upon my arrival here) gave me some expectations that ere -long you would be both in prison and bonds. By and by, I shall follow -perhaps.――The LORD sanctify all his dispensations to us, and make us -not only willing to be bound, but even to die for the sake of our -dear Master. When I read how my letters, &c. are blessed to your -comfort, it quite confounds me. Oh the free-grace of CHRIST JESUS -our LORD! My dear Brother, let us continue instant in season and out -of season.――Let us continually preach up free-grace, though we die -for it; we cannot lose our lives in a better cause. As I am enabled, -I remember you at the throne of grace; in general I sigh out my -prayers.――But the spirit, I trust, makes intercession for me with -groanings that cannot be uttered. - -I have not had much enlargement in preaching, since I have been here; -but my heart is often weighed down, and torn to pieces with a sense -of my desperately wicked and deceitful heart. I can subscribe to what -you say, “Was GOD to leave me to myself, I should be eminent for, -and a ring-leader in sin.” I sometimes think my heart is more vicious -and perverse than any one’s; and yet JESUS CHRIST will come and dwell -in me.――Methinks I hear you say, “Glory be to free grace: All praise -be given to electing love.”――Let all that love the LORD JESUS say, -_Amen_! Pray write to me as often as possible.――GOD, I believe, is -laying a foundation for great things in _Georgia_. I am building a -large house, and taking in many children. Wrestle with GOD in behalf -of, Brother, - - Your’s eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXIII. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 4, 1740._ - -HOW is it with your heart? I hope the LORD JESUS leads you on from -conquering to conquer, and gets himself the victory every day. I -cannot but think that hereafter great things will be done in _America_. -GOD seems to have given some earnests of it already. My next journal -will acquaint you what they are. It often pleases me, to reflect how -CHRIST’s kingdom is securely carried on in spite of men and devils, -and that too by the weakest instruments in different parts of the -world. Surely we shall unite at last, and that glorious time will come, -when, with one heart and with one voice, we shall sing praises to him -who sitteth upon the throne for ever. A glorious epiphany, I trust, -will shortly be made in the hearts of many souls. My dearest Brother, -let us do or suffer any thing, so we may be made instruments of -beginning and carrying on so divine a work. As for my own part, I -often stand astonished at the riches of free distinguishing grace, -and I often feel myself so great a sinner, that I am tempted to think, -nothing can be blessed which comes from such unhallowed hands and lips; -but yet the LORD is with me, and attended his word with mighty power -on _Christmas_ day. Pray remember me to all friends. I expect you will -receive the letters I sent from _Philadelphia_, ere this comes to hand. -I depend on seeing your journal, and hope you will accept of my most -cordial love from, dearest Brother, - - Your’s eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXIV. - - _To Mr. H. G._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 4, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -WHAT shall I say to your kind letter? I bless the LORD for awakening -you to see the necessity of trusting in a better righteousness than -your own, and I adore him for making use of so mean an instrument as I -am. It is a plain proof that the power is not of man, but of GOD alone. -Labour, dear Sir, to keep up these convictions in your heart. Now GOD -has called you, take care of lying down again.――Be always trimming -your lamp, as though you were in expectation every moment to meet the -heavenly Bridegroom.――Search more and more into the corruption of your -heart, and never rest till GOD’s spirit witnesseth with your spirit, -that you are a child of GOD. Let the deadness of those around you, -excite your zeal. See that you are a burning and a shining light -in the midst of such a crooked and perverse generation.――And let a -sense of GOD’s distinguishing love to you above others, excite you -to distinguish yourself by your obedience; still remembering that the -LORD JESUS is our whole and everlasting righteousness. That we both -may be found in him, is the hearty prayer of - - Your sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J――――._ - - _Savannah, Feb. 29, 1740._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -WITH great pleasure I answer your kind letter, and earnestly pray that -GOD would be pleased to sanctify our correspondence. It rejoices my -soul, when I find a clergyman that loves our LORD JESUS in sincerity. -It is with regret that I speak against any of the sacred function; but -when their preaching and walk are directly contrary to the gospel of -our LORD JESUS, I cannot but speak to them, as well as to the laity. -To the best of my knowledge, I preach the truth as it is in JESUS, and -simply aim at bringing souls to him. Blessed be his free grace for the -success he hath been pleased to give me. Not unto me, not unto me, but -unto his holy name be all the glory! Daily I am convinced, that GOD’s -hand is not shortened――He blesses me here as well as elsewhere. The -Orphan-house is in great forwardness. I feed near an hundred mouths -daily, and am assured I serve a GOD who will supply all our wants. -It would rejoice me to see you at _Savannah_, if your business will -permit.――I can now provide things convenient for your reception.――In -about six weeks I propose, GOD willing, to go northward.――If you -can, pray favour me with your company before that time.――My friends -will rejoice to hear and see you.――They join with me in affectionate -respects to yourself and Mrs. _J――――_. I have sent you a few little -tracts, and long for opportunities to convince you, reverend and dear -Sir, how sincerely I subscribe myself - - Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer - in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXVI. - - _To Captain H. M._ - - _Savannah, March 2, 1740._ - _Dear Sir_, - -WITH pleasure I received your kind letter last night, and immediately -prayed, that GOD would never leave you before he had finished the good -work begun in your heart. He has given you a rational, I hope ere long, -he will give you a _spiritual conviction_ of sin and of CHRIST. When -that comes, all opposition will fall before it. The world will be as -nothing in your eyes, and you will act like a soldier of JESUS CHRIST. -Indeed, dear Sir, I travail as it were in birth, till JESUS CHRIST be -thoroughly formed within you. If I do not forget my promise, I do not -forget your favours.――I make mention of you in my prayers. Linger not, -dear Sir, but haste out of your spiritual Sodom. Flee, flee to JESUS -CHRIST, whose sacred blood has made an atonement for sinners. Lay -hold on his everlasting righteousness, and chuse rather to suffer -affliction with the people of GOD, than to enjoy any thing which this -world may afford, for a season. Accept the sermons I have herewith -sent, and believe me to be, _dear Sir_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXVII. - - _To Mr. James S――――._ - - _March 2, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. S._, - -BLESSED be GOD, that you are yet alive as to your body; blessed be -GOD, that some sparks of divine light are yet discernible in your -soul. Indeed, I have been frequently distressed for you and your -companions, lest satan, through the corruption of your hearts, and the -deceitfulness of worldly business, should get an advantage over you. -Oh watch, my dear friend, watch unto prayer; keep close to GOD through -a living faith in his dear Son; forget not your first love; forget not -a bleeding GOD; forget not _that time_, when your soul was about to -take its last flight. O that I may meet you in triumph at the last -day! Providence thwarts my seeing you. Adieu; write as often as you -can. You have my prayers, and as a token of my love, be pleased to -accept this letter and the books sent with it, from - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXVIII. - - _To the Hon. J. W._ - - _Savannah, March 10, 1740._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -YESTERDAY, after public worship, I received with pleasure your kind -letter, and was immediately ready to cry out, Why do so many of -my LORD’s servants take notice of such a dead dog as I am. Surely -sovereign, rich, and free grace was never exalted more than in the -mercy shewn to me, who am in truth the unworthiest of the sons of -men.――_Honoured Sir_, it rejoices me to hear that there are so many at -_New England_, who love the LORD JESUS in sincerity, and dare to shine -as lights in the world amongst a crooked and perverse generation.――I -wish they may be all _Aquila_’s and _Priscilla_’s to me, and teach me -the way of GOD more perfectly; for I long to grow in grace, and in the -knowledge of my LORD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST. Oh he is a sweet master; -even here do I feel his blessed influences, and rejoice with joy -unspeakable and full of glory.――He is often with us in the midst of -his sanctuary, and much succeeds the Orphan-house.――I have digged low, -and intend to build it high, because I have a great GOD to pay the -charges. I have about thirty-six children which I maintain and cloath, -and have upwards of forty persons more who are employed in the work. -The plantation is in great forwardness.――Many families are kept here -by my employing them, and I hope to see many a youth bred up for -GOD; for I design to breed up for the ministry, all that at any time -I shall perceive to be renewed by the Holy Ghost, and endued with -suitable natural abilities. The work, I am persuaded, is of GOD, and -I know he will raise up instruments to support it. Let him chuse whom -seemeth him good.――In about three months, GOD willing, I hope to be -near, or at _New England_. I thank you from my soul, honoured Sir, -for your kind invitation; but, I believe, am pre-engaged to one Mr. -_S――――d_. The LORD reward both him, and all others who receive me in -his name! I have not yet received the books, which you was pleased -to send me, because they are sent to the southward, but I expect them -daily, and doubt not of their being profitable. I know not how to -express my gratitude for your great condescension in writing to me, -but that I may always behave so as not to be ashamed of subscribing -myself - - Your obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J. W._ - - _Savannah, March 26, 1740._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -SINCE I returned here, I received your letter and journal.――I -thank you for both, and shall wait almost with impatience to see a -continuance of your account of what GOD is doing or has done amongst -you――He knows my heart, I rejoice in whatever GOD has done by your -hands. I, præ, sequar, etsi non passibus equis. - -I could now send a particular answer to your last; but, my honoured -friend and brother, for once hearken to a child, who is willing to -wash your feet. I beseech you by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS -our LORD, if you would have my love confirmed towards you; write no -more to me about misrepresentations wherein we differ. To the best of -my knowledge at present, no sin has _dominion_ over me, yet I feel the -strugglings of indwelling sin day by day; I can therefore by no means -come into your interpretation of the passage mentioned in the letter, -and as explained in your preface to Mr. _Halyburton_――The doctrine of -_election_, and the _final perseverance_ of those that are truly in -CHRIST, I am ten thousand times more convinced of, if possible, than -when I saw you last――You think otherwise: why then should we dispute, -when there is no probability of convincing? Will it not in the end -destroy brotherly love, and insensibly take from us that cordial union -and sweetness of soul, which I pray GOD may always subsist between us? -How glad would the enemies of the LORD be to see us divided? How many -would rejoice, should I join and make a party against you? And in one -word, how would the cause of our common master every way suffer by -our raising disputes about particular points of doctrines? _Honoured -Sir_, let us offer salvation freely to all by the blood of JESUS; and -whatever light GOD has communicated to us, let us freely communicate -to others. I have lately read the life of _Luther_, and think it in no -wise to his honour, that the last part of his life was so much taken -up in disputing with _Zuinglius_ and others; who in all probability -equally loved the LORD JESUS, notwithstanding they might differ from -him in other points. Let this, dear Sir, be a caution to us, I hope it -will to me; for by the blessing of GOD, provoke me to it as much as -you please, I do not think ever to enter the lists of controversy with -you on the points wherein we differ. Only I pray to GOD, that the more -you _judge me_, the more I may _love you_, and learn to desire no ones -approbation, but that of my LORD and master JESUS CHRIST.――Ere this -reaches you, I suppose you will hear of my late excursion to _Charles -Town_. A great work I believe is begun there. Enclosed I have sent -you Mr. _Garden’s letters_――They will serve to convince you, more and -more, of the necessity you lie under to be instant in season and out -of season. Oh, dear honoured Sir, I wish you as much success as your -own heart can wish. Was you here, I would weep over you with tears -of love, and tell you what great things GOD hath done for my soul, -since we parted last. Indeed and indeed, I often and heartily pray -for your success in the gospel: May your inward strength and outward -sphere increase day by day! May GOD use you as a choice and singular -instrument of promoting his glory on earth, and may I see you crowned -with an eternal and exceeding weight of glory in the world to come! -This is the hearty desire of, honoured Sir, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXX. - - _To Mr. W._ - - _Savannah, March 26, 1740._ - -AND how does dear Mr. _Wal――_? His letter lies by me, and I now am -inclined to answer it. My dear brother, how do you feel your heart? Is -it grown sick of original and actual sin? Is it grown sick of unbelief -and self-righteousness? Is it closely united to the holy JESUS? Do you -feed on him in your heart by faith? And do you receive of his fulness -day by day? I ask these questions, because I want to see you write -of the inward life, and to hear you talk of your having a feeling -possession of your GOD. For he that believeth aright, hath the witness -within himself. How do the brethren? I hope there is no more saying “I -am of _Paul_,” or “I am of _Apollos_,” but that you are only desirous -of being one in CHRIST. I pray for, though distant from you. I believe -I am preparing a place for many. Our work goes on bravely. I have -near forty little ones now in my house. Some of them I trust will -be effectually wrought upon, and made christians indeed. We all live -in love and unity, and most I hope are seeking after JESUS CHRIST. -He is pleased from time to time to manifest himself to my soul, and -to shew me how unworthy I am of the least mercy. Shortly I shall go -northward, to preach the gospel and collect fresh contributions for my -orphans. GOD has given me an earnest of what he will do in _America_, -by the large collection that was made at _Charles Town_――I live every -day in expectation of hearing from my _London_ friends. My brother, -the captain, refreshed my soul with glad tidings and letters from -_Bristol_. GOD gave me great comfort and satisfaction in conversing -with him, and I hope he will be a christian indeed. Adieu. All salute -you and the brethren. - - I am yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. B. I._ - - _Savannah, March, 28, 1740._ - -HOW glad should I be of a letter from dear brother _I――――_? When shall -my soul be refreshed, with hearing that the work of the LORD prospers -in his hand? I suppose before now you have received my letters, and -seen my journal, and I believe GOD is yet preparing great things -for us. Many at _Charles-town_, lately were brought to see their -want of JESUS CHRIST――Next week, GOD willing, I purpose going to -_Philadelphia_, and then perhaps may see _England_ the latter end of -this year, or beginning of the next. The orphan-house goes on bravely. -I have forty children to maintain, besides workmen and assistants――The -great housholder of the world does, and will I am persuaded richly -provide for us all. The colony itself is in a very declining way. But -our extremity is GOD’s opportunity――Our brethren I trust go forwards -in the spiritual life. I have often great inward trials――Pray that -I may be kept in all changes, and seeming chances of this mortal -life. I believe it to be GOD’s will that I should marry. One, who -may be looked upon as a superior, is absolutely necessary for the due -management of affairs. However, I pray GOD, that I may not have a wife, -till I can live as though I had none――You may communicate this to some -of our intimates; for I would call CHRIST and his disciples to the -marriage. If I am deluded, pray that GOD would reveal it to - - Your most affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXII. - - _To Mr. and Mrs. D._ - - _On board the Savannah, bound to Philadelphia from Georgia, - April 4, 1740._ - _My dear friends_, - -SINCE I wrote last, we have buried our Sister _L――――_. _Rachel_ I -left at _Philadelphia_, and sister _T――――_ seems to be in a declining -state; so that sister _A――――_ alone is like to be left of all the -women which came over with me from _England_. I find by experience, -that a mistress is absolutely necessary for the due management of my -increasing family, and to take off some of that care, which at present -lies upon me. Besides, I shall in all probability, at my next return -from _England_, bring more women with me: and I find, unless they are -all truly gracious (or indeed if they are) without a superior, matters -cannot be carried on as becometh the gospel of JESUS CHRIST. It hath -been therefore much impressed upon my heart, that I should marry, -in order to have a help meet for me in the work whereunto our dear -LORD JESUS hath called me. This comes (like _Abraham_’s servant to -_Rebekah_’s relations) to know whether you think your daughter, _Miss -E――――_, is a proper person to engage in such an undertaking? If so; -whether you will be pleased to give me leave to propose marriage unto -her? You need not be afraid of sending me a refusal. For, I bless -GOD, if I know any thing of my own heart, I am free from that foolish -passion, which the world calls LOVE. I write, only because I believe -it is the will of GOD, that I should alter my state; but your denial -will fully convince me, that your daughter is not the person appointed -by GOD for me. He knows my heart; I would not marry but for him, and -in him, for ten thousand worlds.――But I have sometimes thought _Miss -E――――_ would be my help-mate; for she has often been impressed upon my -heart. I should think myself safer in your family, because so many of -you love the LORD JESUS, and consequently would be more watchful over -my precious and immortal soul. After strong crying and tears at the -throne of grace for direction, and after unspeakable troubles with my -own heart, I write this. Be pleased to spread the letter before the -LORD; and if you think this motion to be of him, be pleased to deliver -the inclosed to your daughter――If not, say nothing, only let me know -you disapprove of it, and that shall satisfy, dear Sir and Madam, - - Your obliged friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXIII. - - _To Miss E――――._ - - _On board the Savannah, April 4th, 1740._ - -BE not surprised at the contents of this:――The letter sent to your -honoured father and mother will acquaint you with the reasons. Do you -think, you could undergo the fatigues, that must necessarily attend -being joined to one, who is every day liable to be called out to -suffer for the sake of JESUS CHRIST? Can you bear to leave your -father and kindred’s house, and to trust on him, (who feedeth the -young ravens that call upon him) for your own and childrens support, -supposing it should please him to bless you with any? Can you -undertake to help a husband in the charge of a family, consisting -perhaps of a hundred persons? Can you bear the inclemencies of the air -both as to cold and heat in a foreign climate? Can you, when you have -an husband, be as though you had none, and willingly part with him, -even for a long season, when his LORD and master shall call him forth -to preach the gospel, and command him to leave you behind? If after -seeking to GOD for direction, and searching your heart, you can say, -“I can do all those things through CHRIST strengthening me,” what if -you and I were joined together in the LORD, and you came with me at my -return from _England_, to be a help meet for me in the management of -the orphan-house? I have great reason to believe it is the divine will -that I should alter my condition, and have often thought you was the -person appointed for me. I shall still wait on GOD for direction, and -heartily intreat him, that if this motion be not of him, it may come -to nought.――I write thus plainly, because, I trust, I write not from -any other principles but the love of GOD.――I shall make it my business -to call on the LORD JESUS, and would advise you to consult both him -and your friends――For in order to attain a blessing, we should call -both the LORD JESUS and his disciples to the marriage――I much like -the manner of _Isaac_’s marrying with _Rebekah_, and think no marriage -can succeed well, unless both parties concerned are like-minded -with _Tobias_ and his wife――I think I can call the GOD of _Abraham_, -_Isaac_ and _Jacob_, to witness that I desire “to take you my sister -to wife, not for lust, but uprightly;” and therefore I hope he will -mercifully ordain, if it be his blessed will we should be joined -together, that we may walk as _Zachary_ and _Elizabeth_ did, in all -the ordinances of the LORD blameless. I make no great profession -to you, because I believe you think me sincere. The passionate -expressions which carnal courtiers use, I think, ought to be avoided -by those that would marry in the LORD. I can only promise, by the -help of GOD, “to keep my matrimonial vow, and to do what I can towards -helping you forward in the great work of your salvation.” If you -think marriage will be any way prejudicial to your better part, be -so kind as to send me a denial. I would not be a snare to you for the -world. You need not be afraid of speaking your mind. I trust, I love -you only for GOD, and desire to be joined to you only by his command, -and for his sake. With fear and much trembling I write, and shall -patiently tarry the LORD’s leisure, till he is pleased to incline you, -dear Miss _E――――_, to send an answer to - - Your affectionate brother, friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXIV. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _On board the Savannah, April 10, 1740._ - -IT is now full time to answer your letter. You acknowledge me the -first instrument, under GOD (for ever adored be the riches of his free -grace) of awakening you to the divine life: and shall not I endeavour -to quicken and inflame the heavenly spark infused into your soul? -GOD forbid! Oh that my power was equal to my will! How should my dear -brother _H――――_ glow with divine love, and lean by faith on the bosom -of his dearest Redeemer! But I trust ere now you have indeed received -the Holy Ghost, and know what it is to feast on a crucified JESUS. -Does he not, my dear brother, often manifest himself sweetly to your -panting soul? Does he not often teach you the hidden things of the -kingdom of GOD? Does he not tell you that he loves you, and will -suffer nothing to pluck you out of his almighty hand? Thus often is he -pleased to manifest himself to me: and who then dares despair? No; I -can assure the worst, the chief of sinners, that JESUS CHRIST came to -save them. My dear brother, here are glad tidings of great joy! The -fire kindles whilst I am musing. Oh let us call all to come and see -Him, who has forgiven us all the sins that ever we committed. Is not -this the CHRIST? Adieu. My hearty and dearest love to all. Fail not -writing to - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXV. - - _To Mr. C――――._ - - _On board the Savannah, April 10, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -YOU, as well as your dear associates, are much upon my heart. I long -to hear that you are advanced in grace, and grown in the knowledge of -CHRIST JESUS your LORD. I say _your Lord_; for I hope, ere now, you -can appropriate CHRIST to yourself, and, without the least diffidence -or doubt, cry out assuredly, “My LORD and my GOD.” When the soul -says this, _then_, but not till then, is it truly married to the dear -LORD JESUS; then are we true children of the bridegroom, and are real -partakers of the supper of the Lamb. This, this is faith: this is -believing; not with the head; not in notion only; but with the heart, -indeed and in truth. The soul now puts its _amen_, and sets the seal -to GOD’s everlasting promises; it now soars upwards towards heavenly -things, and feels continually the invisible realities of another world. -Though sometimes overshadowed by a cloud, yet still it knows that -its Redeemer liveth, and justifieth the ungodly. It cannot doubt of -his favour, though sometimes he is pleased to withdraw his sensible -presence. The root of the matter is twisted round every faculty of the -soul, which daily is supported with this assurance, that CHRIST can -no more forsake the soul he loves, than he can forsake himself. Oh my -dear brother, I find myself much carried out to write of that divine -life, that divine mystery of godliness, the hidden kingdom of GOD in -the heart. If any thing I can say, or do, or write, may be any way -serviceable to dear Mr. _C――――_, it will much rejoice - - His most unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXVI. - - _To Mr. I―――― B――――._ - - _On board the Savannah, April 10, 1740._ - _My dear, dear Friend_, - -I Remember your words that day I took my leave of you, with Dr. _John -S――――_, at _London_. I have not forgotten you, therefore do I now -write a line to my dear Mr. _B――――_. May the Holy Ghost come upon -him, and the power of the Highest overshadow him; and may our glorious -Redeemer never cease striving with him, till he hath a witness within -himself that he is a true child of GOD. Oh, when will you answer the -character of your name-sake and forefather _Isaac_! When, like him, -will my dear friend give himself up a whole burnt-offering unto the -LORD! May I hear that you have recovered your first love, and are, as -formerly, zealous of good works! I think I never yet really doubted -of your return. If prayers to GOD, if entreaties to him, can bring my -dear friend back, he shall not be led away captive by the world; he -shall, he shall be a Christian indeed. I long to see you, and till -then shall wrestle with strong cryings and many tears with my dear -LORD JESUS, in your behalf. I feel, I feel CHRIST’s love; I can no -more doubt of my interest in him, than I can of the shining of the sun -at noon day. He fills, he sweetens and gladdens my soul; he loves me -freely: he will bring me to behold his glory. I think I could now bid -to men and devils defiance. Who is he that condemneth? It is CHRIST -that justifies, who even now sitteth in heaven to make intercession -_for me_. You see, my dear friend, I am upon the mount. I know not how -to stop. It is true, I must come down; but it is only that I may go -up again, and take a view of the heavenly _Canaan_. I am now near -the port whither we are bound: yet a little while, and I shall be in -heaven; and shall I not meet my dear _I――――_ there? GOD forbid! No, no; -I cannot bear the thought of it. Away, my dear, dear brother, to JESUS -CHRIST. Lay hold on his everlasting righteousness: look, look unto -him by faith, and be saved. Call your dear wife to look also. Help, -oh help her in the great work of her salvation; and breed up your dear -child in the nurture and admonition of the LORD. Adieu. My heart is -full. With sincerity I subscribe myself - - Your’s most affectionately in our dearest, dearest LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXVII. - - _To Mr. N――――._ - - _On board the Savannah, April 10, 1740._ - _My Dear Brother_, - -I Have been a few days returned from _Charles-Town_, where our dear -LORD JESUS, I trust, has begun a glorious work. Many came to me under -convictions, and were made to cry out, “What shall we do to be saved?” -The people were exceeding desirous of my return amongst them. If I -call there, as I come northward, it may prevent my being at _New-York_ -so soon as was proposed. The LORD direct my going in his way. A -_Fosterian Preacher_ lost ground there. I think you are not much to -be blamed for going out of church; but perhaps it might be better, -on another such occasion, to hear the whole discourse, and then go -and converse with the preacher upon it; otherwise a man may say, you -are angry, and could not judge, because you did not hear all. Praise -is more dangerous than contempt: but when our LORD’s honour can be -promoted by the display of our graces, we need not fear. His grace -will be sufficient for us. I know not what person it is that you would -not have me be so open to, unless it be Mr. ――――. I had rather be too -open than too reserved. Simplicity much becomes the _Israel_ of GOD. A -few days past, with full assurance of faith, I laid the first brick of -our great house: _Jeremiah_ bought land when the people were leading -into captivity. My family daily increase, and, blessed be GOD, as yet -I am kept from doubting. Pray that my faith may never fail. Some of -the _Germans_ in _America_ are holy souls, and deserve the character -they bear. They keep up a close walk with GOD, and are remarkable for -their sweetness and simplicity of behaviour. They talk little, and -think much. Most of them, I believe, are _Lutherans_. But where there -is the image of my dear Master, there are my affections drawn. This is -the catholic spirit you breathe after: the LORD, I am persuaded, will -give it to your soul. All that people do say of me, affects me but -little; because I know worse of myself than they can say concerning -me. My heart is desperately wicked. Was GOD to leave me, I should be a -remarkable sinner. But redeeming love, I believe, will not let us go. -Oh! dear Mr. _N._ pray, and give thanks for me. I daily taste that the -LORD is gracious. All things go on well. My dear brethren salute you, -as does - - Your affectionate, unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXVIII. - - _To Mr. S――――._ - - _Willingtown, (Pensylvania) April 14, 1740._ - -READ where I am, and judge whether or not I am a stranger and -pilgrim upon earth. Yesterday, after a short passage of ten days, -did GOD bring us from _Georgia_ to _New-Castle_: there I preached -twice. To-day I shall preach here, and in the evening hope to reach -_Philadelphia_. People are much alarmed already; and great things, -I find, GOD has been pleased to do, by what he enabled me to deliver -when last here. Two ministers have been convinced of their formal -state, notwithstanding they held and preached the doctrines of grace. -One plainly told the congregation he had been deceiving himself and -them, and could not preach any more, but desired the people to pray -with him. Another is as a flame of fire, and hath been much owned of -GOD. An opposer reading my sermon, in order to convince them I did -not preach as Mr. _T――――_, was much disappointed; for power went along -with the sermon, GOD’s spirit fell on the people, and formal opposers -went affrighted away. It is unknown what a glorious stir here is in -the province. Many, very many, I believe, of late have been brought -savingly to believe on the LORD JESUS. The work much increases, and -here is employment for many months: but I must return shortly to -_Savannah_. A primitive spirit revives; and many, I hope, will be -brought to live stedfast in the apostles doctrine, in fellowship, and -breaking of bread, and in prayer. Perhaps dear Mr. _S――――_ may be one -of them. Pray how does that young man do? Is he deeply humbled, and -closely united to the dear LORD JESUS? Does he feel himself a poor -sinner, and daily experience the outgoing and incoming of the blessed -spirit in the sanctuary of his heart? Blessed be GOD, I do: even -whilst I am writing I feel his power. I am persuaded I shall be more -than conqueror over every evil, through my Redeemer’s love. Oh! my -dear friend, keep close to the dear LORD JESUS! Do not go without his -leading, and then you are safe, though in the midst of devils. Adieu. - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXIX. - - _To Madam C――――._ - - _New Brunswick, April 27, 1740._ - _Madam_, - -ALL things go on well in _America_――nay, better than I dare ask, or -could think. Our LORD’s kingdom comes with power. It is amazing to -see how GOD is present in our assemblies: I refer you to dear brother -_S――――_ for particulars. My animal spirits are exhausted, but I am -filled within. Nature would sometimes cry out, “Spare thyself;” but -when I am offering JESUS to poor sinners, I cannot forbear exerting -all my powers. Oh that I had a thousand lives! my dear LORD JESUS -should have them all. I long to be out of the body, that I may love -and serve him as I would: but I must suffer before I can reign with -him. That you and I may never deny our LORD, is the earnest prayer of, -Madam, - - Your obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXX. - - _To Mr. M――――._ - - _New Brunswick, April 28, 1740._ - -BLESSED be GOD, I can send you glad tidings of great joy. Our LORD -JESUS is getting himself the victory in these parts. The Orphan-house -affairs go forward beyond expectation. I have upwards of _forty -children_ in my house at _Savannah_, near _seventy persons_ in family, -and upwards of an _hundred people_ to provide for every day. As yet we -want for nothing. The great housholder of mankind gives us all things -richly to enjoy, and, I am persuaded, will provide for us whilst we -trust in him. I had rather live by faith, and depend on GOD for the -support of my great, and yet increasing family, than to have the -largest visible fund in the universe. About five weeks ago the LORD -stirred up the _Charles-Town_ people to contribute upwards of seventy -pounds sterling towards the support of my little ones. A glorious work -was also begun in the hearts of the inhabitants; and many were brought -to cry out, “What shall we do to be saved?” A fortnight ago, after a -short passage of ten days, I landed in _Pensylvania_, and have had the -pleasure of seeing and hearing, that my poor endeavours for promoting -CHRIST’s kingdom, when there last, were not altogether vain in the -LORD. I cannot well tell you how many have come unto me, labouring -under the deepest convictions, and seemingly desirous of finding -rest in JESUS CHRIST. Several have, I humbly hope, actually received -him into their hearts by faith, and have not only righteousness and -peace, but also joy in the Holy Ghost. In short, the word hath run -and been much glorified; and many _Negroes_ also are in a fair way of -being brought home to GOD. I daily receive fresh and most importunate -invitations to preach in all the adjacent countries. GOD is pleased -togive a great blessing to my printed Sermons: they are now in the -hands of thousands in these parts, and are a means, under GOD, of -enlightening and building up many in their most holy faith. Since such -an effectual door is opened for preaching the everlasting gospel, you -will not be surprized if I acquaint you there are many adversaries. -The _Clergy_, I find, are greatly offended at me. The commissary of -_Philadelphia_, having got a little stronger party than when I was -there last, has thrown off the mask, denied me the pulpit, and last -_Sunday_ preached up an _historical faith_, and _justification by -works_. But people only flock the more to me. The power of GOD is -more visible than ever in our assemblies; and more than ever before -are convinced that I preach the doctrine of JESUS CHRIST. Some few -bigotted self-righteous _Quakers_ also, now begin to spit out a little -of the serpent: they cannot bear the doctrine of _original sin_, or of -_imputed righteousness_ as the cause of our acceptance with GOD. One -calls original sin “original nonsense;” and several have been to me, -under the apprehension of being thrust out, for owning and confessing -what I take to be the truth as it is in JESUS. GOD has now brought me -to _New Brunswick_, where I am blessed with the conversation of Mr. -_G―――― T――――_. Indeed he is a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST, and GOD -is pleased in a wonderful manner to own both him and his brethren. -The congregations where they have preached have been surprizingly -convicted and melted down. They are unwearied in doing good, and -go out into the highways and hedges to compel poor sinners to come -in. Yesterday also I heard of two ministers in _Long Island_, near -_New-York_, who had large communications from GOD, and have been -instrumental in bringing many souls to CHRIST. I could add more; but -I must away: the people are waiting for a spiritual meal. They fly -to the doctrine as doves to the windows, and I trust the LORD is now -reviving his work in the midst of the years. With great difficulty -I have redeemed time to send you these few lines. I hope you and the -rest of my dear friends continue to pray for me: for I believe never -was so weak a wretch sent on such an important errand. But when I am -weak, then am I strong. My bodily strength, by frequent journeying -and continued speaking, sometimes fails me; but the LORD quickens -and strengthens me by his mighty power. The more I am opposed, the -more joy I feel; and the first fruits of GOD’s spirit, which he hath -imparted to my soul, are so sweet, that I almost with impatience wait -till I reap a full harvest in the fruition of my GOD. Continue, I -beseech you, to intercede for me; and rest satisfied that both you and -my other _English_ friends are always remembered by - - Yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXI. - - _To W. S. Esq._ - - _Reedy Island, May 19, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Know very well what it is to part from a friend which is as one’s -own soul; and therefore could in some measure sympathize with you -in what you felt when parting from me. The good LORD sanctify my -friendship to you, and grant we may go hand in hand to heaven. One -of the inclosed papers will shew you the event of what you inserted -(unknown to me) in the News. However, be not disheartened; GOD -shall make even this to work together for your good. The war between -_Michael_ and the dragon has much increased. Mr. _C――――_ has preached -most of his people away from him. He lashed me most bravely the -_Sunday_ before I came away. Mr. _A――――_ also preaches against me. Mr. -_C――――_ did not come to take his leave of me; and Mr. _J――――_ is very -inveterate. Now I believe our LORD’s kingdom will come with power. -At _New-York_ the word ran. Twice or thrice our LORD appeared for -us in a most glorious manner. Mr. _T――――_ and his brethren glow with -divine warmth; and I have conversed with one of the ministers of _Long -Island_, whom GOD has lately sent forth: he is a sweet zealous soul. -Last week, at _Nottingham_ and Mr. _B――――_’s, how did GOD manifest -his glory! We had about twelve thousand hearers; and such a melting, -such a crying, (they say) was scarcely ever seen. Blessed be GOD, -the devil’s children begin to throw off the mask. I want to draw the -lingering battle on. At _Philadelphia_ affairs go on better and better; -only Satan now begins to throw many into fits. I have generally -preached twice and rode near thirty miles a-day since you left me. -The LORD hath been my support, and has often so melted me with a sense -of his free, sovereign, and everlasting love, that some thought I was -giving up the ghost. Oh never let go your sense of GOD’s sovereign, -everlasting love! It is food to my poor soul. Was it not for that, -surely I must sink under the prospect of the labours and sufferings -that are before me. My dear brother, What is the LORD doing in these -parts? I believe the work will go on better here than in _England_. -We are more united in our principles, and do not print one against -another. Pray observe the hint given to _Captain G――――_, and let the -LORD order for me as it shall seem good in his sight. We are now at -_Reedy Island_ waiting for a wind. I heard of a ship going to _Dublin_, -and could not lose the opportunity of writing to my dear brother -_S――――_. I need not remind you to hasten over as fast as possible――Our -LORD has taught you not to stay by the way――I have rebuked Mr. _C――――_ -sharply, and I trust have gotten some gracious souls on board――The -LORD is with me; I am somewhat better as to bodily health, but I live -chiefly on inward supplies from above. My master never fails me. Oh -exhort all to fall in love with JESUS, and to pray for, - - Ever yours in the best bonds, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXII. - - _To Mr. M――――, an Indian Trader._ - - _Reedy Island, May 19, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. M――――_, - -I Received your letter, and have been reading part of your journal. -I think it your bounden duty to go amongst the _Indians_ again, not -as a _minister_, but as a private christian, whose duty it is, when -converted himself, to strengthen his brethren. An effectual door, I -would hope, is opening amongst some of the heathen. I remember, when -it was first impressed upon me, that I should go to _Georgia_, this -promise came with such power as never will be forgotten, and that too, -long before I had any outward call――“I have made thee the head of the -heathen.”――I speak this for your encouragement, but desire you would -not mention it to others. Who knows but that time may be now near at -hand?――However that be, it is plain GOD calls you, and I wish you good -success in the name of the LORD. Be sure you keep a close walk with -GOD.――Be much in prayer, and prepare for the greatest hardships. Your -greatest perils will be amongst your own countrymen. The heathens will -be stirred up by them, as the Gentiles were by the Jews; but the LORD -JESUS will make you more than conqueror over all. The word of the LORD -will make its own way. Beg of GOD to give you true notions of our free -justification by faith in JESUS CHRIST. Bring your _Indian_ hearers -to believe, before you talk of baptism, or the supper of the LORD. -Otherwise they will catch at a shadow, and neglect the substance. -Improve the leisure you now enjoy, and see that you feel the truths -you speak. Feed on this promise, “It shall be given you in that hour -what you shall say.” Your circumstances call for a fulfilling of -it――Tell them what GOD has been doing here, and how happy JESUS CHRIST -will make them. Be sure tell them, tell them, that true faith is not -merely in the head, but in the heart, and that it will certainly be -productive of good works. Frequently meditate on GOD’s free love to -yourself, and that will best qualify you to speak of it affectionately -to others. I could say more, but time will not permit. Pray for me. -All with me salute you. My poor petitions you may depend on, as the -LORD shall enable me. My love to all, and believe me to be - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXIII. - - _To the Allegany Indians._ - - _Reedy Island, May 21, 1740._ - _My Dear Brethren_, - -FOR so I call you, because you, and I, and all, have one common father, -ONE GOD, in whom we live, move and have our beings. We all came at -first out of the dust of the earth. For after GOD made the sun, moon, -stars, and every thing you see, he also made a creature called _man_, -and breathed into him the breath of life; he then became a living -soul. He could not only walk and speak, but he could also think, and -reason, and was full of goodness, peace, and joy. This man, this happy -creature GOD placed in a garden, which his own right hand had planted. -He then cast him into a deep sleep, and out of one of his ribs made -what we call a woman, that she might be his wife. Their names were -_Adam_ and _Eve_. With these, GOD made an agreement that they should -eat of every tree of that garden, except one; but if they ate the -fruit of that particular tree, they should die; they should return to -the dust from whence they were taken, lose the comforts they enjoyed -in their souls, and be unhappy for ever in another world. But if they -did not eat this fruit, none of these things should come upon them. -A being, which we call the _devil_, (and who for his pride had been -cast out of heaven) envying their happiness, tempted them to eat the -forbidden fruit. They consented, they ate, they died. Their bodies -became mortal, their souls were deprived of the presence and love of -GOD; and unless a way was found out to make satisfaction for what they -had done, they must have been lost for ever. These were our parents, -and GOD made this agreement with us their children, as well as with -them. For they acted in our name, as a king acts in the name of his -people, or a father in the name of a child――What therefore befel them, -befel us. We died in them; and come into this world poor and miserable, -blind and naked, as they were, when they had eaten of the forbidden -tree. Hence it is, that we are given to lust, anger, envy, hatred, -pride, and malice, and all those troublesome passions which you all -must feel in your own hearts, and cannot but see even in the hearts -of your children. If then, you only look into yourselves, you must -confess these things are so. But GOD hath given us a _book_, wherein -he assures us of the truth of all this:――And we know that book came -from GOD, because none but GOD could tell us the things therein -contained. And I speak first of this, because ’till you feel and -believe this, you cannot come to the knowledge of JESUS CHRIST; and -without the knowledge of JESUS CHRIST you cannot be saved. For after -our first parents, _Adam_ and _Eve_, had taken the forbidden fruit, -and with all their children, thereafter to be born, became guilty -before GOD, GOD out of his own free love sent his only begotten Son -into the world, to die, and so to make an atonement for the sin of -fallen man, and also to obey the law, which man had broken; so that -though fallen man had no righteousness of his own, yet upon believing -in GOD’s Son, he should find a perfect righteousness in him. This Son -is called JESUS, “A Saviour,” because he was to save us from the guilt -and power of our sins. He was truly GOD, and therefore could satisfy; -he was truly man, and therefore could obey and suffer in our stead. -He was GOD and man in one person, that GOD and man might be happy -together again. My dear brethren, (for so I must call you, though -I never saw you) these are strange things. But if you are willing to -learn, the holy spirit shall teach you. For JESUS CHRIST by dying, -and obeying GOD’s law, hath bought for us the holy spirit, who shall -change your corrupt natures, and fit you for happiness hereafter with -the ever-blessed GOD, if you do but believe in your hearts.――Thousands -of white people only believe in their heads, and therefore are no more -christians than those who never heard of JESUS CHRIST at all. They -call CHRIST, “Lord, Lord,” but they do not live as JESUS CHRIST hath -commanded. No, they curse and swear, they break the sabbath, they -get drunk, they play, they whore, they commit adultery, and have -taught many poor _Indians_ to do these abominable things as well as -themselves. Do not you therefore learn of them. For true christians -are sober, chaste and holy. They will not get drunk, they will not -play the whore, they will not cheat, lie, curse or swear; but they -will bless and praise GOD, keep the sabbath, and do all the good they -can; for thus JESUS CHRIST, their LORD and master, lived when he was -here on earth. I say, when he was here on earth; for after he died, -he rose again, and went up into heaven from whence he came, and there -he sits praying for all that shall believe on Him to the end of the -world. For as the world had a beginning, so it also will have an end. -And JESUS CHRIST will come again in the clouds to judge all mankind; -and then he that hath believed in CHRIST, and hath shewn forth his -faith by his works, shall be saved; and he that hath not believed -in CHRIST, shall be damned for ever, and be cast into a lake of fire -and brimstone. But before he comes, he hath promised that the heathen -shall be brought to believe on him, and therefore I write this letter -to you. I would come myself, and preach the glad tidings of salvation -among you, as the bearer of this could interpret for me; but my other -business will not permit. I am a minister of the same JESUS, and once -was as ignorant of Him comparatively as you may be. I once lived like -other people; but the LORD JESUS hath brought me to believe on Him, -and I now do so no more. I once was full of envy, hatred, malice, and -such like cursed tempers; but now I have love, and peace, and joy. And -because JESUS CHRIST hath shewn such mercy to me, I desire that all -others should be made as happy, nay happier than I am myself.――Hearken -therefore now to the voice of the LORD. Pray to GOD that you may feel -yourselves poor, miserable sinners, and come by a living faith to -JESUS CHRIST. Then he will pardon you of all your sins, make you holy -by his spirit here, and take you into everlasting happiness hereafter. -Your traders, some of them at least, will tell you, that you must be -miserable, if you will be christians. But these know nothing of JESUS -CHRIST; for they are ungodly men, walking after their own wicked lusts. -Whosoever will follow JESUS CHRIST, though happy in himself, must -be looked upon as a fool by others. The spirit of the world, and the -spirit of JESUS are quite contrary one to the other; and therefore if -you will live godly in Him, you must suffer persecution; you must have -all manner of evil spoken against you falsely, and be called madmen -and fools; but let not that daunt you, or make you afraid. There is -a world to come, there is a judgment-day, and then JESUS CHRIST shall -crown all those with glory, who have suffered for his name’s sake. -Once more, therefore, hearken to the voice of the LORD. For the LORD -JESUS died for you, as well as for the white men among you, and that -you might be taught the gospel; but they have made you worse than you -were before, and therefore shall receive the greater damnation. He who -brings this, no doubt, will be despised amongst them, because he will, -I hope, neither get drunk, nor curse, nor swear.――But I trust the LORD -will strengthen him, and cause him to shew many of you the true way of -salvation――I shall not fail to pray for him, and for you; for though I -know you not, yet if I could thereby save your precious souls, I think -I could die for your sake. May the LORD JESUS bless you, and bring you -out of darkness into his marvellous light, for his infinite mercy’s -sake. This is the prayer of, dear brethren, - - Your soul’s well-wisher and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. I――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Reedy Island, May 21, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -STILL our LORD is with me both in the ship and on the shore. Adore him -for his free grace. Sailors, I believe, are coming to JESUS. One or -two of our crew are under convictions. The LORD does not keep me here -for nothing. I desire to learn of winds and storms to obey Him. I pray -daily for your success. May the LORD make you a happy instrument of -bringing many sons to glory. Your weakness need not discourage you. -The LORD is pleased to make use of me. He strengthens me mightily in -the inner man. Oh grace, grace! “Less than the least of all,” shall be -my motto still. I need not exhort you to feed the flock of GOD; he has -purchased them with his own blood. Oh admit of a _mixed communion_. I -think the glory of GOD requires this at your hands. May the LORD give -you a right understanding in all things, and enable you to remember - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer - in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXV. - - _To Mr. M――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Reedy Island, May 21, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. M._, - -AS the LORD is pleased to detain me here by contrary winds, why should -I not send you a line? You have stood up for the truths of GOD, and, -I trust, will not be ashamed of our LORD and his gospel. I expect a -great falling away amongst those that followed me: But I hope dear Mr. -_M._ will continue stedfast and unmoveable to the last. The only way, -is to keep a constant eye to CHRIST, to go forth in his strength, and -never to rest till you feel his blessed truths copied and transcribed -on your heart. You have often heard me exclaim against resting on -a _head-knowledge_. You are a man of strong passions, and sprightly -imagination, and therefore (I know you will not be affronted) you -will make either a great saint, or an accomplished ――――. I believe -the former, though, as a friend, I remind you of, and caution you -against the latter. You love to be dealt plainly with. Oh, dear Sir, -I feel that I love you, and have a real concern for you and your -houshold.――What would I give to see your daughters become wise virgins, -and fallen in love with the blessed JESUS. How amiable would they then -appear! But before this can be done, all pertness, and lightness of -spirit, must be taken away, and they must not only leave off dancing, -but be made new creatures. How is your son? Pray tell him it is time -for him to come home. The fatted calf waits for him. I could say -more; but time will not permit. Dear Sir, pray for me. Indeed I -will endeavour to return the favour; many are waiting for, and would -rejoice at my halting; but the LORD is my helper. He is with me in my -little cabin, and gives me a feeling possession of his blessed spirit. -May the LORD enrich you with a great measure of it, and fill you with -all his fulness! Methinks I see you lifting up your eyes, and saying, -_Amen_.――And so saith, dear Mr. _M._ - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXVI. - - _To Mr. R――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ - _Dear R._, - -LET nothing said to you in my absence affect you. GOD has lately -delivered you out of one snare; take heed how you fall into another. -If you watch unto prayer, who knows but GOD may bless your endeavours -amongst the poor negro women and children? I could not wish you more -happily situated.――My love to all the society.――Exhort them not to -rest in good desires. Shew them, O shew them the necessity of being -deeply wounded, before they can be capable of healing by JESUS CHRIST. -Bid them to beware of a light behaviour, and light company. Both -do grieve the blessed spirit of GOD. Take heed, take heed of those -accursed snares. I could say more, but time will not permit. My love -to the _Negro Peggy_, and all her black sisters. Bid them to pray -for me. May the blood of JESUS wash away all the pollutions of their -sin-sick souls! What if they were put into a society by themselves, -and you, or some white woman, meet with them? The good LORD direct and -bless you in all things.――This is the hearty prayer of - - Your sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXVII. - - _To Mr. E――――._ - - _Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ - -GOD only knows when the wind will favour our removal hence; I desire -patiently to tarry the LORD’s leisure, and to wait the moving of the -cloud of his providence. However, in the mean while I send you a line -amongst my other friends. GOD, I believe, hath struck you to the heart, -and shewn you the rottenness of that foundation whereon you was once -building. O keep close to our dear LORD JESUS, and never fear what -men or devils can say of, or do unto you. I am persuaded you must be -buffeted.――You must be persecuted, if you will live godly in CHRIST -JESUS. Let this be your comfort, when the world forsakes you, the -LORD whom you serve, shall take you up. I pray for you, and my other -dear _Philadelphia_ friends daily. The LORD be with you all. Adieu. -You would do well to publish, “that all who have not been baptized -already, and shall appear to be prepared for it, I will, by GOD’s -leave, baptize, at my return to _Philadelphia_.” O that all who -followed me were baptized with the Holy Ghost! But there must be a -falling away.――Dear Mr. _E――――_, I trust, will not desert his LORD. -Trust in his, and not in your own strength, and you shall be safe. -Once more farewel. All with me salute you. The people on shore wait -for me. Remember me in your prayers as - - Your affectionate servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXVIII. - - _To the Members of a Society at Philadelphia._ - - _Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ - _My dear Friends_, - -AS the LORD, for wise reasons, detains me here, I cannot but send -you a line as a token of my unfeigned concern for the welfare of your -better part. I must confess, that the account many of you gave of your -experiences, was not so satisfactory as I could wish; but I hope you -will none of you rest in good desires, or think you are christians, -because you have followed after me. I thank you, GOD knows my heart, -I thank you for all expressions of your love: But I beseech you to -remember, that the kingdom of GOD does not consist in _word_, but -in _power_. Keeping company with GOD’s people, does not give you a -title to the privileges of GOD’s children. It may increase, but not -extenuate your condemnation, if you are not sound in heart, and truly -converted to our dear LORD JESUS CHRIST. I am persuaded you will not -be offended at this plain dealing. GOD has been pleased to work upon -you by my unworthy ministry. I would therefore watch over you for good, -and warn you against those snares which await all the true followers -of the Lamb of GOD. At my next return, I hope I shall see you are -that inwardly, which you would be esteemed outwardly. The searcher of -hearts knows I long for your salvation. My dear friends, adieu. Pray -for me. Be humble, be strong in the LORD and in the power of his might. -A fiery trial awaits you. There is no being a christian without giving -up all for CHRIST. We must all have the spirit of martyrdom, though we -may not all die martyrs.――That the LORD may keep you by his power unto -salvation, and make you more than conquerors through his love, is the -hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CLXXXIX. - - _To Mr. A―――― S――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. S._, - -I Desire that you and your wife would accept of these few farewel -lines as a token of my love. My heart’s desire and prayer to GOD is, -that you both may be saved.――Your wife was mourning when I saw her -last. The LORD JESUS prepare her thereby for true, solid, and lasting -comfort! The more we are humbled, the more will the glorious Emmanuel -exalt us; but we must wait his time. JESUS is love, and never corrects -us but for our own good. I find it is always thus with me. I am a -stubborn, ungrateful, disobedient child, and often oblige him to -strike me severely; but love, I find, holds the rod, and therefore his -rod, as well as his staff comforts me. Farewel; the LORD be with you -both!――_John S――――_ and all friends salute you. We live and walk in -love. My tenderest respects await all that truly follow the Lamb. I -beseech you forget not to pray for - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXC. - - _To Mr. G―――― L――――, in London._ - - _Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ - -“ON _Thursday_ last, in the evening, the Rev. Mr. _Whitefield_ went -on board at _New-Castle_, in order to sail to _Georgia_, after having -been on shore thirty-three days, and travelled some hundreds of miles, -and preached fifty-eight times in the provinces of _New-Jersey_, -_New-York_, and _Pensylvania_.――His congregations consisted sometimes -of four, sometimes of five, sometimes of eight, twelve, fifteen, and -once at _Philadelphia_, of _twenty thousand_ people. He had gotten -near five hundred pounds sterling, in money and provisions, for the -Orphan-house at _Georgia_. Great and visible effects followed his -preaching, almost wheresoever he went, especially in _Philadelphia_. -There was never such a general awakening, and concern for the things -of GOD known in _America_ before. He intended to visit _New-England_ -soon after his arrival at _Georgia_, and to come by land as far as -_Philadelphia_, at the latter end of the year.” - -The above _Advertisement_ may suffice for the present, ’till I have -an opportunity of sending you my journal. That will shew you wonderful -things. I suppose ere this reaches you, our dear brothers, _S――――_ -and _G――――_, will be arrived: I have sent a packet of letters to them, -by the way of _Dublin_. I am now waiting for a fair wind, and can say -the LORD is with me of a truth. Several ships are lying by us, and the -captains and their companies come to our ship to prayers. Sailors weep: -It is unknown how many are under conviction. I long to hear what is -doing in _England_. The embargoes, I suppose, prevent your sending; -however my heart is with you. I do not forget you. I hope there is -a door opening among the _Allegany_ Indians. I have read _M――――_’s -journal, and have wrote both to him and them. We have been near a week -at _Reedy Island_: I have preached there five times. The captains and -their crews come constantly to public worship on shore, and to private -prayer in our sloop. We have some with us that love our dear LORD -JESUS in sincerity. My heart is exceedingly drawn towards _Savannah_; -but the LORD’s time is the best. The LORD JESUS bless you all, and -reward you for all kindnesses shewn to his unworthy servant, but - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCI. - - _To W―――― S――――, Esq., in London._ - - _Lewis-Town, (Pensylvania) May 24, 1740._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -MY will is much to go to _Georgia_, but my dear LORD JESUS is pleased -to cross me. For ever blessed be his great and glorious name. Just now -the LORD hath brought me hither. Your letter pleased me. I hope our -LORD is now beginning to answer my prayers, and that my dear Brother -_S――――_ is about to know himself. You know I have often told you, -that you ought to suspect your experiences. You have mistaken, in my -opinion, _preparation_, for conversion itself. Your nine years round -of duties, were no effects of the new-birth at all. How could they -be? when you did not know you was to be born again, before you heard -Mr. _C―――― W――――_ expound the seventh chapter of the _Romans_: Then, -but not till then did you begin to be enlightened, and illumination -and conversion are two different things. All my great trials were -consequent on this. Not that GOD’s way of dealing with me, ought -to be a rule for others: But I think your case and mine somewhat -parallel.――Those that have been most humbled, I find, always make the -most solid, useful christians. It stands with reason: The more a man -is emptied of himself, the more room is there made for the spirit of -GOD to dwell in him.――Your caution to dear Mr. _H._ was very good. -Openness is the best preservative of spiritual friendship. I would -behave so, that no one might be afraid to consult me; but if people -will not open their hearts, let them not blame me; I cannot speak, -where I perceive a shyness, and where I see persons are afraid of -me. I am sure they must harbour some ungenerous suspicions or other -against me, and how then can there be a harmony of soul. My dear -brother, my friend, now I have told you my heart: Be not angry, I am -just ready to weep.――Indeed, I am willing to wash your feet, and to -acknowledge all favours under GOD that I have received from you. Be -stable, be willing to consult others that have trod in the spiritual -road before you; do not mistake working _for_ life, for _working from -life_. Watch unto prayer, and do not be carried away by every wind of -doctrine. How could you not see through _L――――_ of _German-Town_? But -I must not chide, but love. Much I owe you; have patience with me and -I will endeavour to pay you. I shall long to see you at _Savannah_. -Once more, my dear friend and brother, adieu. My heart is much melted -down. GOD continually fills me with himself. O give thanks for, dear -Sir, - - Your brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J. W._ - - _Cape-Lopen, May 24, 1740._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -I Cannot entertain prejudices against your conduct and principles -any longer, without informing you. The more I examine the writings -of the most experienced men, and the experiences of the most -established christians, the more I differ from your notion about not -committing sin, and your denying the doctrines of election, and final -perseverance of the saints. I dread coming to _England_, unless you -are resolved to oppose these truths with less warmth, than when I -was there last. I dread your coming over to _America_; because the -work of GOD is carried on here (and that in a most glorious manner) -by doctrines quite opposite to those you hold. Here are thousands -of GOD’s children, who will not be persuaded out of the privileges -purchased for them by the blood of JESUS. Here are many worthy -experienced ministers, who would oppose your principles to the utmost. -GOD direct me what to do! Sometimes I think it best to stay here, -where we all think and speak the same thing: The work goes on without -divisions, and with more success, because all employed in it are -of one mind. I write not this, _honoured Sir_, from heat of spirit, -but out of love. At present, I think you are entirely inconsistent -with yourself, and therefore do not blame me, if I do not approve of -all that you say. GOD himself, I find, teaches my friends the doctrine -of election. Sister _H――――_ hath lately been convinced of it; and, -if I mistake not, dear and honoured Mr. _W――――_ hereafter will be -convinced also. From my soul I wish you abundant success in the name -of the LORD. I long to hear of your being made a spiritual father -to thousands. Perhaps I may never see you again, ’till we meet -in judgment; then, if not before, you will know, that sovereign, -distinguishing, irresistible grace brought you to heaven. Then will -you know, that GOD loved you with an everlasting love, and therefore -with loving-kindness did he draw you. Honoured Sir, farewel. My -prayers constantly attend both you and your labours. I neglect no -opportunity of writing. My next journal will acquaint you with new -and surprizing wonders. The LORD fills me both in body and soul. I am -supported under the prospect of present and impending trials, with an -assurance of GOD’s loving me to the end; yea, even to all eternity. -Ere this reaches you, I suppose you will hear of my intention to marry. -I am quite as free as a child: If it be GOD’s will, I beseech him to -prevent it. I would not be hindered in my dear LORD’s business for the -world. I am now waiting for a fair wind. GOD blesses the Orphan-house. -Do not be angry with, but pray for, honoured Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCIII. - - _To Mr. S――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _Savannah, June 7, 1740._ - _Dear Sir_, - -BEFORE I knew you by name, my heart was uncommonly affected towards -you. Whenever I saw you at church, I enquired concerning you, and to -my great but pleasing surprize, when I came to your house, found you -was the man I was enquiring after. Your letter gives me still hopes, -that our dear LORD JESUS is about to awaken you from a carnal security -in which you have long lain. He is now calling you, dear, dear Sir. I -beseech you, by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS our Saviour, take -heed that you do not lie down again. If you will be a follower of -the Lamb of GOD, you must prepare your soul for manifold temptations; -you must become the song of the drunkard, and have all manner of evil -spoken against you falsely for CHRIST’s sake: But let none of these -things move you, dear Sir. Dare, I beseech you, to be singularly -good.――Be not ashamed of your glory.――Learn a lesson of boldness -even from the devil’s children. How resolute, how daring are they in -their master’s cause? Why should not we be equally courageous in the -cause of JESUS CHRIST? O Sir, I feel a concern for the welfare of your -better part. GOD hath vouchsafed you some convictions; do not rest in -them. Catch not too greedily at comfort. Beg of GOD that you may be -thoroughly wounded, before you desire to be made whole; otherwise you -will go but half way, and be only an unstable, double-minded man at -last. GOD forbid that dear Mr. _S――――_ should ever settle in such a -dangerous state! Ere long I hope to see you in _Charles-Town_, and -then I shall have an opportunity of enquiring more particularly into -the state of your soul. I came home but two days ago, and therefore -could not answer your letter before. If I can be serviceable to you -in any respect, be pleased to command, dear Sir, - - Your assured friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCIV. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, in London._ - - _Savannah, June 7, 1740._ - _My dear, dear Brother_, - -WITH great comfort I received your long wished-for letter. It warmed -my heart, and knit my soul to you much more than ever. Whenever I -see the child-like simplicity and love of JESUS, it quite melts me -down. Let all former misunderstandings between me and your friends be -entirely forgotten. I always pitied your parents, and most earnestly -prayed for them and you. Blessed be GOD that you are come home. You -are now, I believe, as I always did believe, in your proper station. -May GOD give you a settled habit of devotion, and so fill you with -his spirit, that whilst you are working for GOD on earth, you may be -like those blessed angels, who, though ministring to us, yet do always -behold the face of our Father who is in heaven. My dear brother, let -the love of JESUS constrain you to love him with all your soul. A -sense of his divine love now melts down my heart, and draws tears from -my eyes. O what wonderful things is GOD doing in _America_! _Savannah_ -also, _my dear Savannah_, especially my little orphans, now begin to -feel the love of JESUS CHRIST. I arrived here but about two days ago, -in an hour quite unexpected by my friends. How did we weep over one -another for joy! Perhaps I may never feel the like again, till I meet -with the sons of GOD in glory: But oh what a scene was to be seen last -night in the congregation! How did the stately steps of our glorious -Emmanuel appear! His glory shone with exceeding brightness. The power -seemed to be coming on all the day. My soul has been much carried out -in behalf of this place, and now the LORD is about to answer my prayer. -_T―――― D――――_ was yesterday in a glorious agony. I prayed with three -of the girls before I went to church, and their hearts were ready to -break: I prayed also, with strong cryings and tears, with my other -dear friends, and GOD was much with us then; but when we came to -church, oh what was to be seen, and heard, and felt there! The power -of the LORD came as it were upon all. Most of the children, both boys -and girls, cried bitterly, and most of the congregation were drowned -in tears, and mourned as a woman mourneth for her first-born. Expence -of spirits made my body weak, but my soul still wrestled earnestly -with GOD. When I came home, I lay upon my bed; but seeing the children -and people come home crying, I went to prayer again, and a greater -power than ever still attended it. O how was my soul carried out, and -how did the Holy Ghost fill the room! At last I thought proper to -dismiss them; but it would have charmed your heart to hear the little -ones in different parts of the house praying, and begging of JESUS to -take full possession of their hearts. The same power continues to-day: -For near two hours, four or five of the girls have been before the -LORD weeping most bitterly, and under such agonies, as gives me hope -our LORD will soon send them deliverance. I have not yet talked with -the boys, who also have been under great concern, and one especially -in great agonies. I believe two or three will be truly gracious. I -have brought with me a Latin master, and on _Monday_ laid a foundation -in the name of our dear JESUS for an _university_ in _Georgia_. GOD -blesses me (O free and sovereign grace) in every thing I undertake. -Our Orphan-house comes under better regulations every day, and I am -persuaded, in the end, will produce some true followers of JESUS -CHRIST. I am now looking for fresh attacks from the enemy, after such -inroads. He has been busy since my departure, but the LORD hath -vouchsafed to rebuke and disappoint him. My dear brother, may the LORD -be with you! For CHRIST’s sake desire dear Brother _W――――_ to avoid -disputing with me. I think I had rather die, than to see a division -between us; and yet, how can we walk together, if we oppose each -other? Adieu. Dear _James_, with much tenderness I subscribe myself - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCV. - - _To T―――― T――――, Esq., in London._ - - _Savannah, June 7, 1740._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Wrote to you very lately; but your kind letter is now before me, -and I cannot forbear answering it: Blessed be GOD, that you still look -upon me as your friend. May the friend of all, unite us in the best -bonds, and bring us to himself at last! I long to see the son of man -coming in the clouds of heaven. I have now such large incomes from -above, and such precious communications from our dear LORD JESUS, -that my body sometimes can scarcely sustain them. Our dear Brother -_H――――_’s letter (which I desire you may see) will shew you what -a work is begun at _Savannah_. I am in great hopes, that six or -seven boys and girls are really coming to JESUS CHRIST. Dear Brother -_H――――n_ sojourns with us. I love him, and all the brethren, in the -bowels of JESUS CHRIST. I am now looking for some strong attacks from -satan. The LORD comforts me on every side, and lets me see my desire -in the salvation of many souls. O, dear Mr. _T――――_, forget not - - Your weak unworthy friend and brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCVI. - - _To Mr. M――――._ - - _Savannah, June 11, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. M――――_, - -I Am not uneasy, but rather joyful, to find GOD lets you see more -and more into the misery of your depraved nature. I pray GOD, these -convictions may still increase, and that you may not fall short of a -saving union with JESUS CHRIST. I am concerned to find you have lost -a sense of your first love.――Take heed, my dear friend, and wrestle -with your dear LORD, till he lets you see the root of bitterness that -must certainly be in some corner of your heart. Perhaps you have not -renounced the world and your own righteousness, and then no wonder our -LORD doth not manifest himself to your soul. Sometimes, indeed, GOD -withdraws on purpose to wean us from sensible devotion, and to take -us off from seeking any self-complacence in our duties. If this be the -case of you and your friends, you are patiently to tarry the LORD’s -leisure, and to continue striving with all your might till he is -pleased to lift up the light of his blessed countenance upon you. You -must seek JESUS though it be sorrowing, and then, after three days, -you will find him; for the LORD will not always be chiding, neither -keepeth he his anger for ever. That GOD may daily renew you in the -spirit of your mind, is the hearty prayer of, dear Sir, - - Your assured friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCVII. - - _To Mr. W―――― W――――, in London._ - - _Savannah, June 11, 1740._ - _Dear W――――_, - -I Am sorry to hear, that you and your masters cannot agree; but -this I know, supposing the case to be as you represent it, you must -notwithstanding “be obedient, not only to the good and gentle, but -also to the froward.”――Rough usage will do you good, if you are -sincere; GOD sees the pride and stubbornness of your heart, and -therefore sends you these trials to beat it down: I find the benefit -of crosses. What should I do without them? Dear brother _S――――_ would -write to you, I believe, but is much engaged.――We love one another in -the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. O, dear _W._ keep close to GOD, and see -you are that inwardly, which you would be esteemed outwardly.――Rest in -nothing short of a sound and thorough conversion. That GOD may bless -you, and all the brethren, with all spiritual blessings, is the hearty -prayer of - - Your assured friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J―――― B――――, at New-York._ - - _Savannah, June 13, 1740._ - _Reverend and dear Brother_, - -I Have just been reading the three letters you sent some time ago to -our dear brother _N――――_, and find my heart much inclined to write -you a line. Whatever others may do, yet I am far from judging you on -account of GOD’s dealings with your soul. I rather rejoice in them, -having myself been blessed with many experiences of the like nature. -But, my dear brother, if GOD works upon us in an extraordinary manner, -we must prepare for temptation, even from our christian brethren. - -Most judge of others from what has passed within themselves; and many -of the dear children of GOD are too apt to confine GOD to this or -that particular way of acting; whereas he is a sovereign agent: his -sacred spirit bloweth when, and where, and how it listeth; and when -an uncommon work is to be done, no doubt he will work upon his chosen -instruments in an uncommon manner. What the event of the present -general awakening will be, I know not. I desire to follow my dear -LORD blindfold, whithersoever he is pleased to lead me; and to do just -so much, and no more, as his providence points out to me. Wonderful -things have been done ever since my arrival at _Savannah_: Such an -awakening among little children, I never saw before. Our dear brother -_N――――_’s letter will acquaint you with particulars. O my dear brother, -how ought such manifestations of GOD’s glory, to quicken our souls, -and excite us to lay out ourselves more and more in the service of -the best of Masters, JESUS CHRIST! Every day he fills me with himself, -and sometimes brings me even upon the confines of eternity. Methinks -I often stand upon _Mount Pisgah_, and take a view of the heavenly -_Canaan_, and then long to be gathered to my people: but, my dear -brother, both you and I must suffer, and that great things, before we -enter into glory. My work is scarce begun; my trials are yet to come. -What is a little scourge of the tongue? What is a thrusting out of the -synagogues? The time of temptation will be, when we are thrust into -an inner prison, and feel the iron entering even into our souls. Then, -perhaps, even GOD’s people may be permitted to forsake us for a while, -and none but the LORD JESUS to stand by us. “But if thou, O dearest -Redeemer! wilt strengthen me in the inner man, let enemies plunge -me into a fiery furnace, or throw me into a den of lions.” My dear -brother, my heart is enlarged towards you: though I never saw, yet -I love you most tenderly. How does dear brother _D――――_? Does he yet -walk in the light of GOD’s countenance? Pray salute him lovingly in -my name. In the fall, I hope to see you in _Long Island_, and to be -somewhat filled with your company. In the mean while, let us all keep -a close walk with JESUS; and be pleased, in an especial manner, to -remember - - Your unworthy, though affectionate brother, fellow-labourer, - and servant in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CXCIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J. W._ - - _Savannah, June 25, 1740._ - _My honoured Friend and Brother_, - -I Thank you for, and heartily say _amen_ to all the petitions you have -put up in my behalf. I want to be as my Master would have me; I mean, -meek and lowly in heart. Dear Sir, bear with me a little longer; pray -for me with great earnestness; and who knows but my GOD may give me to -abhor myself in dust and ashes! He that hath given us his Son, will he -not with him freely give us all things? For CHRIST’s sake, if possible, -dear Sir, never speak against election in your sermons: no one can -say that I ever mentioned it in public discourses, whatever my private -sentiments may be. For CHRIST’s sake, let us not be divided amongst -ourselves: nothing will so much prevent a division as your being -silent on this head. I should have rejoiced at the sight of your -Journal. I long to sing a hymn of praise for what GOD has done for -your soul. I am glad to hear that you speak up for an attendance -on the means of grace, and do not encourage persons who run (I am -persuaded) before they are called. The work of GOD will suffer much -by such imprudence. I trust you will still persist in field-preaching. -Others are strangers to our call. I know infinite good hath been done -by it already, and greater good will yet be done thereby every day: -but we must be judged of our brethren. May GOD bless you more and more -every day, and cause you to triumph in every place. Next _Monday_, -GOD willing, I go to _Charles-Town_. My family is well regulated; -but I want some more gracious assistants. I have near an hundred and -thirty to maintain daily, without any fund. The LORD gives me a full -undisturbed confidence in his power and goodness. Dear Sir, adieu. I -can write no more; my heart is full. I want to be a little child. O -continue to pray for - - Your most unworthy, but affectionate brother and servant - in our dear LORD JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CC. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――._ - - _Savannah, June 25, 1740._ - _Dearest J――――_, - -EVERY letter you write, knits my heart more and more to you in the -bowels of JESUS CHRIST. Your last I received on _Saturday_. GOD had -been preparing me for it, by a week’s intimation upon my heart, and by -an inexpressible agony in my soul just before it came to hand. Blessed -be GOD that our friends preach up poverty of spirit, for that is the -only foundation whereon to build solid abiding comfort. The stony -ground received the word with joy; but how did those hearers stand -in a day of temptation? They fell away; for it is very possible that -the heart may have much joy floating on the top of it, and yet be as -hard as the nether millstone. Hence it is that so many, who boast of -rest in their flashes of joy, are self-willed, impatient of reproof, -despisers of others in a mourning state, and wise in their own -conceits: whereas the believer, that hath been with his LORD in the -wilderness, and has a truly broken and contrite heart, though his joy -may not be so extravagant, yet it is substantial. Such a soul hangs -upon GOD; thinks before he speaks; and is continually hearkening for -what the LORD will say to him, by the small still voice of his spirit. -This is the state I want all our friends to arrive at. I cannot see -how they can, with assurance, talk of their enjoying solid fellowship -with the Father, and his dear Son CHRIST JESUS. I shall not be -surprized if many, who seemingly began in the spirit, do end in -the flesh, and turn persecutors of the doctrines and disciples of -JESUS CHRIST. How can they possibly stand, who never felt themselves -condemned criminals? who were never truly burthened with a sense not -only of their actual, but original sin, especially that damning sin -of unbelief? who were never brought to see and heartily confess, that -after they had done all, GOD might, notwithstanding, deny them mercy; -and that it is owing merely to his sovereign love in CHRIST JESUS our -LORD, that they can have any hopes of being delivered from the wrath -to come? It is for preaching in this manner that I like Mess. _T――――s_. -They wound deep before they heal; they know that there is no promise -made but to him that believeth; and therefore they are careful not -to comfort over much those that are convicted. I fear I have been too -incautious in this respect, and have often given comfort too soon. The -LORD pardon me for what is past, and teach me more rightly to divide -the word of truth for the future. Dearest _J――――_, pardon this freedom; -I am constrained to write in this manner. I thank you most heartily -for your historical letter. Fail not writing to me often. Dearest -_J――――_, help me by your prayers: for CHRIST’s sake help me. Our LORD -is yet with us. I hear different accounts of things; but I pray for -all, and suspend my judgment till you see - - Your affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCI. - - _To Mrs. E―――― C――――._ - - _Savannah, June 25, 1740._ - _My dear Sister_, - -YOUR letter afforded me much inward pleasure. Surely it bespeaks the -writer not to be far from the kingdom of GOD. You was then waiting -for our LORD’s salvation: ere now, I trust, CHRIST hath manifested his -glory, filled you with his blessed spirit, and thereby sealed you to -the day of redemption. ’Tis good to be long in an humbled state: it -is the best preparation for solid, lasting comfort. Blessed are they -that mourn most, for they shall be the most comforted: not that we are -violently to keep ourselves in such a state; but when GOD’s hand lies -heavy upon us, we are patiently to tarry the LORD’s leisure, till he -reveals himself to our souls. I was a mourner a long while; but, glory -be to GOD! I have for some years been almost continually comforted; -at least kept from doubting of my interest in JESUS CHRIST. I can with -an humble boldness cry out, “My LORD and my GOD!” He daily manifests -himself to my soul, and causes me to feel my dependance on his free -grace and sovereign love. This is the kingdom of GOD within us. -O, my dear sister, what would I give, were all the world partakers -of this unspeakable gift! I long, I burn with an ardent zeal after -the salvation of my dear brethren, who are dead in trespasses and -sins. Poor souls! Why am I taken, and they left? O the sovereign, -free, unmerited, distinguishing love of my and your JESUS! My dear -sister, let us love him, let us obey him; let us suffer for him with -a chearful heart! His love will sweeten every cup, though never so -bitter. Let us pledge him willingly, and continue faithful even unto -death. A scene of sufferings lies before us. Who knows but we may wade -to our Saviour through a sea of blood? I expect (O pray that I may be -strengthened if called to it) to die for his great name’s sake. ’Twill -be sweet to wear a martyr’s crown. Dear Madam, adieu. I remember GOD’s -goodness to us at _Broad-Oaks_. I pray for you and yours. I trust your -daughters keep close to JESUS. Salute them kindly in my name. Read my -Journal, and give hearty thanks for - - Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S――――, in London._ - - _Savannah, June 26, 1740._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -AND is one of the priests also obedient to the word? Blessed be GOD, -the Father of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, who hath translated you from -darkness to light; from the power of Satan to the service of the -ever-living GOD. Now know I, that our glorious _Emmanuel_ has not -commanded us to pray in vain. Surely we shall never taste of death, -till we see our dear LORD’s kingdom coming with greater power. He -seems to be thrusting out more labourers into his harvest. Glory be -to his free grace that you are one of the happy number. O dear Sir, -rejoice and be exceeding glad; and let the love of JESUS constrain you -to go out into the highways and hedges to compel poor sinners to come -in. Some (even that are true lovers of the Lamb) may say “this is not -proceeding with a zeal according to knowledge:” but I am persuaded, -when the power of religion revives, the gospel must be propagated in -the same manner as it was first established, “_itinerant preaching_.” -Go on, dear Sir, go on, and follow your glorious Master without the -camp, bearing his sacred reproach. Never fear the scourge of the -tongue, or the threatnings that are daily breathed out against the -LORD, and against his CHRIST. Suffer we must, I believe, and that -great things. Our LORD, by his providence, begins to shew it. Ere -long, perhaps, we may sing in a prison, and have our feet set fast -in the stocks. But faith in JESUS turns a prison into a palace, and -makes a bed of flames become a bed of down. Let us be faithful to-day, -and our LORD will support us to-morrow. O dear Sir, though I know you -not, yet my heart is enlarged towards you, and I make mention of your -name in my prayers. I pray GOD to give you strength to bear the heat -and burden of every day, and to enable you to preach with such wisdom, -that all your adversaries may not be able to gainsay or resist. -Blessed be his holy name, I drink deep of his love every moment. A -greater power than ever attends my poor labours; and several of my own -houshold, both boys and girls, I really believe, are coming savingly -to JESUS CHRIST. I am now about to go to _Charles-Town_; a work of -GOD is begun there. Who knows but I may see my dear brother _S――――_ -in _America_? But future things belong to GOD; to his grace and love I -commend you. Keep close to your dear JESUS, and pray that a child-like, -humble spirit, may be given to - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCIII. - - _To Wm. S――――, Esq., in London._ - - _Savannah, June 26, 1740._ - _My dear Brother S――――_, - -I Sent you a packet of letters from _Charles-Town_, the middle of this -month. Since that time, I have received many agreeable letters from -_England_; but find from _Blendon letters_ that Miss _E―――― D――――_ -is in a seeking state only. Surely that will not do; I would have one -that is full of faith and the Holy Ghost. Just now I have been weeping, -and much carried out in prayer before the LORD. My poor family gives -me more concern than every thing else put together. I want a _gracious -woman_ that is dead to every thing but JESUS, and is qualified to -govern children, and direct persons of her own sex. Such a one would -help, and not retard me in my dear LORD’s work. I wait upon the -LORD every moment; I hang upon my JESUS: and he is so infinitely -condescending, that he daily grants me fresh tokens of his love, and -assures me that he will not permit me to fall by the hands of a woman. -I am almost tempted to wish I had never undertook the orphan-house. At -other times, I am willing to contrive matters so that I may not marry: -but I am always checked; and looking back upon the workings of my -heart in this affair, I am more and more convinced that it is of GOD; -and therefore know he will order affairs for me, as will best promote -his own glory. So that my dear LORD’s honour does not suffer, I care -not what trouble in the flesh I undergo. His glory, to the best of my -knowledge, is my only aim, in my thoughts, words, and actions. My -dearest brother, adieu. By this time, I trust, you are near _England_. -Dear brother _S――――_ goes with me to _Charles-Town_. Brother _B――――_ -keeps house in my absence. Take heed that the people you bring believe -on JESUS. Expect to hear shortly again from - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCIV. - - _To Mr. W―――― D――――._ - - _Savannah, June 28, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Thank you for your kind letters and friendly cautions; and trust -shall always reckon those my choicest friends, who, in simplicity and -meekness, tell me the corruptions of my heart. It is that faithfulness -which hath endeared _J―――― S――――_ to me. I think I never was obliged -to any one so much before: for that reason also I find my heart knit -to you. O my dear brother, still continue faithful to my soul: do not -hate me in your heart; in any wise reprove me. Exhort all my dear -brethren to forgive my past (I fear) too imperious carriage; and let -them pray that I may know myself to be what I really am, less than -the least of them all. I have abundant reason to bless GOD for sending -me abroad. I cannot say I have improved my retirement as I ought; but -I can say it hath been highly beneficial to my soul. I have a garden -near at hand, where I go particularly to meet and talk with my GOD, -at the cool of every day. I often sit in silence, offering my soul as -so much clay, to be stamped just as my heavenly potter pleases: and -whilst I am musing, I am often filled as it were with the fulness of -GOD. I am frequently at _Calvary_, and frequently on _Mount Tabor_; -but always assured of my LORD’s everlasting love. O continue to pray -for me, that I may know myself even as I am known. I want to have a -proper mixture of the lion and the lamb, of the serpent and the dove. -I do not despair of attaining it. JESUS is love; JESUS willeth my -perfection; JESUS hath died for me; JESUS can deny me nothing. He hath -given me himself; will he not then freely give me all things besides? -I wait for thy compleat salvation, O LORD! My dear brother, my heart -is now enlarged. Your prayer is answered. The whole Godhead now fills -my soul. O grace, grace! O Jesu, Jesu! was ever love like thine! LORD, -I abhor myself in dust and ashes. O that I could praise thee! that -I could love thee as I ought! My dear brother, I hear you have been -zealous for the LORD your GOD since my departure. You have done well: -you never can be zealous for a better master: but why, silent? why -withdrawn? Did you go before you was called or qualified? If so, -you have done right: but I suspend my judgment; for I find there is -no judging at a distance. I only pray GOD that you may always feel -yourself a very poor sinner, and find refuge in the wounds and blood -of the Lamb. I rejoice to hear the work of GOD goes on, and heartily -wish you may not be divided among yourselves. Our dear LORD is with us -here: I only want a few more gracious, solid assistants. The LORD will -send them in his due time to - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCV. - - _To J―――― B――――._ - - _Good Hope, (South-Carolina) July 2, 1740._ - - _My dear Brother B――――_, - -IS it true, that one night whilst you was expounding, you told your -hearers, from your own experience, that “they could not go on without -throwing aside the means of grace?” or words to that purpose? If -so, I pity you; for you are not only misled yourself, but are also -misguiding others. But this is no more than I expected. I think you -begun to teach too soon, and before you had a commission given you -from above. Brother _J――――_ was of the same opinion, before I left -_England_. For that reason, I would not take you to _Georgia_. Blessed -be GOD, I have no such over-forward spirits there. My dear _B――――_, I -write in love. For CHRIST’s sake try your spirit: I fear you was never -yet truly humbled. I know you have had joy; but I always thought it -was joy floating on the surface of an unmortified heart. From such -a joy, good LORD deliver us! O that you had been in the wilderness a -little longer! then you might have been an experienced teacher; but -I fear you are now only a novice. May the LORD keep you from falling -into the condemnation of the devil. I write not this to damp, but to -regulate your spirit; if you are humble, you will take it kind. GOD -knows, I wish all the LORD’s servants were prophets; but I would not -have my Master’s work suffer by a too heady way of proceeding. Why -should you dishonour him by acting above your sphere; whereas you -might honour him by acting in it. Every one is not fit to be a public -expounder. To build up awakened sinners in private, is what is more -wanted at present than young unexperienced preachers. But I have done; -I fear I have offended my brother: forgive me this wrong. As GOD was -pleased first to work upon you by my ministry, you must always expect -to be watched over by - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCVI. - - _Charles-Town, July 11, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. R――――_, - -YOUR letter much rejoiced me. O that you may still follow on, till -you truly know the LORD! I shall be glad to have you for a scribe, -if you are well instructed in the things which belong to the kingdom -of heaven. Keep close, my dear friend, keep close to the dear Mr. -_T――――s_: under GOD, they will build you up in your most holy faith. -It gladdens my heart to hear of their success in the LORD. The -LORD increase them more and more, and multiply the number of their -spiritual children! I suppose brother _G――――_’s letter informed you -what a speedy passage the LORD gave us, and how we were received at -_Georgia_. Surely I shall never see the like again, till I meet the -sons of GOD in glory. Praise the LORD, O my soul! my dear friend, help -me to praise the LORD. I have been here above a week. The LORD hath -been pleased to work on many hearts. On _Sunday_ the _commissary_ -denied me the sacrament; but my dear Master fed me, notwithstanding, -with the bread which cometh down from heaven. Persecution seems to -be coming on more and more. My dear friend, see that you are rooted -and grounded in love and faith; or how will you stand fast in a dying -hour? With difficulty I write this before morning service. I preach -generally, in town or country, twice a-day. The heat is great; but -the LORD enables me to bear the burden of it. Next month, GOD willing, -I go to _New-England_, and hope to see _Philadelphia_ in _November_. -On _Tuesday_ next I am cited to appear before the commissary and his -court in a judicial way: the event I leave to my dear LORD JESUS. O -dear Mr. _R――――_, let not the cross keep you from JESUS. If we suffer, -we shall reign with him. Salute your honoured mother in my name, and -all that love our dear LORD in sincerity, from, dear Mr. _R――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCVII. - - _To Mr. J―――― R――――._ - - _Charles-Town, July 15, 1740._ - _Dear J――――_, - -MAY you answer your name, be freely gracious, and filled with as much -love as he was, who leaned on the sacred bosom of our dear Redeemer. I -believe GOD has begun; if so, GOD will carry on the good work in your -heart. It is the LORD’s doing. Not unto me, not unto me; but to free, -rich, distinguishing, sovereign grace, be all the glory! The wearing -off, or forgetting your convictions formerly, ought to make you more -jealous of yourself now. The more you see the enmity of the heart, the -better: you cannot then avoid abhorring yourself in dust and ashes. -I rejoice you have been at _Neshamini_. I can say of Mr. _T――――_ and -their brethren, as _David_ did of _Goliah_’s sword, “None like them.” -I am glad you and my friend _R――――_ are acquainted. O see that you -keep one another warm, and be zealous for the LORD your GOD. I wonder -not at your master’s insinuations. Indeed, dear _J――――_, you must -be tried thoroughly, if you would approve yourself to the glorious -_Emmanuel_. Exhort all to die for him, rather than deny him in any -wise. I find my suffering time at hand: but my dear LORD comforts me -with his gracious and refreshing presence. A good work is carrying on -here: let my dear friends help it forwards by their prayers. My love -to all at the society; and accept of the same from - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCVIII. - - _To Mr. B――――, in Pensylvania._ - - _Charles-Town, July 18, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -PRAISE the LORD, O my soul! Our glorious _Emmanuel_ seems to have -girt his sword upon his thigh, and to be riding on from conquering to -conquer. He gets himself the victory in _Philadelphia_. He is getting -himself the victory in _Charles-Town_ also. Indeed a glorious work is -begun, and carrying on here. Many souls are awakened to a sense of the -divine life.――The alteration in the people since I came here at first, -is surprizing. I preach twice a day, generally, either in town or in -the villages around. The commissary shoots out his arrows, even bitter -words. He hath denied me the sacrament, and cited me to appear before -him and his court; I was obliged to appeal home. O my dear brother, -pray that I may be humble and of a child-like spirit. Every day GOD -shews me fresh instances of his love. Here are some faithful ministers -amongst the baptists. One of them, Mr. _C――――_, has wrote to you; pray -answer him. Some time next month I hope to be at _New England_, and to -return to you according to promise. Be pleased to salute the brethren -in my name. Indeed I honour and love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. -O that I was worthy of your acquaintance! But I am not. All that I can -say is, that I will endeavour to approve myself - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCIX. - - _To Mr. I. R――――._ - - _Charles-Town, July 18, 1740._ - _My Dear Friend_, - -I Thank you for going with friend _E――――_ and _B――――_ to _Nazareth_. -May GOD bless you, and cause great good to come to that place! -GOD seems to be carrying on as great a work in _Charles-Town_, -comparatively speaking, as in _Philadelphia_. Surely our LORD intends -to set the world in a flame. O that the holy fire of his divine love -was kindled in every heart! Be pleased to read what I have sent to -Mr. _N――――_. If you please you may print that extract, which I sent -from my journal: GOD willing, I hope to be at _New England_ by the -beginning of _September_, and to be refreshed with your and my dear -friend’s letters. Indeed, I love you all in the bowels of my dear LORD -JESUS. Do not let us forsake him. Let us not be ashamed of him, though -we live in a crooked and perverse generation. I thank my dear friends -for their zeal in building a house;¹ but desire it may not have any -particular name, or be put to any particular use, till my return -to _Philadelphia_. I wish them good luck in the name of the LORD. -Last night I appeared a third time in a public court; but they not -accepting my _Recusatio judicis_, I appealed home; so that now I have -free liberty to embark when providence pleaseth. O my dear friend, -think of a bleeding, dying LORD. Keep close to him, and exhort all -friends to pray and give thanks for - - Your assured friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - ¹ This is now the college at _Philadelphia_. - - - LETTER CCX. - - _To Mr. G―――― L――――._ - - _Charles-Town, July 18, 1740._ - _Dear Brother L――――_, - -GOD will work, and who shall hinder? The sacrament hath been refused -to me, and I have appeared thrice in open court, before the commissary -and some of his clergy; but our LORD rides on, from conquering -to conquer. Many, I believe, are really pricked to the heart. The -commissary’s detaining me here, has much tended to the furtherance of -the gospel. I put in my exceptions against his sitting as my judge, -and they were repelled; so that I have appealed home, and all other -proceedings here are stopped. By this means I shall have liberty -to preach the gospel without further interruption, and my call to -_England_ will be more clear. The enclosed paper will shew you what -is doing in _Philadelphia_. Private letters received from thence last -night and this morning, have much refreshed my heart. Many souls are -flocking to the LORD JESUS. I need not exhort you to praise the LORD. -You may advertise what paragraphs you think proper, only add that -_Philadelphia_ people are building a house for me to preach in, 106 -feet long and 74 feet wide. The LORD is bringing mighty things to -pass. I am surprizingly strengthened to bear the heat and burden of -every day. My dear LORD never leaves nor forsakes me, but works by -my unworthy ministry more and more. O that I was humble! O that I -was a little, little child! I know not how soon I may be called to -_England_. The inhabitants here are wondrous kind. They attend morning -and evening most chearfully on my preaching. We often see the stately -steps of our dear LORD in his sanctuary. I am more than happy. I am -amazed at the divine goodness. LORD, I abhor myself in dust and ashes! -See the wonders of the LORD; help us to praise him. Excuse me to all -my dear friends. For this fortnight past I have not wrote a word of my -journal. My sermons, &c. are bought off exceedingly, northward. O pray -that an humble child-like spirit may be given to - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. D――――._ - - _Savannah, August 15, 1740._ - _My dear Brother D――――_, - -OUR dear LORD (after being pleased to bring me low by bodily sickness) -now gives me liberty to write to you. Whilst I am writing, I find -my heart united with yours. I hope we have both drank into the same -spirit, and are both instances of the same sovereign, distinguishing, -everlasting love. O let us extol it! O let us improve daily! And -since GOD sees fit that we shall not die, but live, let us lay -ourselves out to declare the works of the LORD. I am ashamed of my -past unfruitfulness. Had others received the stock, that hath been -intrusted to me, how would they have improved it? Indeed I am an -unprofitable servant. In the righteousness of JESUS my LORD, is my -only refuge. Well may GOD afflict me; I richly deserve it; and when he -brings me low, nothing grieves me so much, as to think that I should -be so froward as to oblige the GOD of love to strike me with his rod. -But oh the goodness of the LORD! His rod, as well as staff, do comfort -and build up my soul. I would not but be tried for ten thousand -worlds. Blessed be GOD, I am enabled to clasp the cross, and desire -to glory in nothing more. Dear brother, help me with your prayers. Our -victorious JESUS makes his power to be known; many have I seen struck -quite down by the power of the word. The holy Ghost hath often come -like a mighty rushing wind. Satan has desired to sift us as wheat. But -our LORD still shews me, that the orphan-house will go on and flourish. -It is often a great weight upon my soul; but through your and my dear -friends prayers, the LORD I am persuaded will still support it. - - Yours eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXII. - - _To Mr. N――――, in New York._ - - _Savannah, Aug. 15, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -YOUR letter rejoiced my heart. May our dear lord’s kingdom be advanced -more and more every day! O that I may meet you at _New-England_! -Blessed be GOD that Mr. _M――――_ is yet alive. Salute him from me; I -hope to see him before I die, and so be taught the way of GOD more -perfectly. I thank you for your kind hints; I have always paid great -deference to dear Mr. _N――――_’s judgment: indeed I love him in the -bowels of JESUS. GOD has been pleased to bring me low, for some time, -by inward weakness, and faintness of spirits. The first strength that -is given me to write, I make use of in writing to you. The LORD is -purging me, that I may bring forth more fruit. I long to die, not that -I may be rid of crosses, but that I may be with CHRIST. He draws me -more and more to him every day. I have had many close domestic trials -of late. But these words, “David strengthened himself in the LORD -his GOD,” came with sweet power to my soul. I find, the nearer I come -to CHRIST, the closer my trials are. I have been sometimes through -weakness kept from preaching; but when I have spoken, the word has -come with power. I have reason to think, that three persons who came -to see the orphan-house, have been effectually called by our LORD -JESUS. I have now some _Carolina_ visitors in my house; two of them, -I believe, are coming truly to JESUS.――The word runs like lightning in -_Charles-Town_. A serious lively Baptist minister, named _Tilly_, is -here also; he has preached often for me, and last _Sunday_ received -the sacrament in our way.――O bigotry, thou art tumbling down a-pace! -Blessed be GOD.――Next week, GOD willing, I embark for _Charles-Town_, -shall stay there a few days, and from thence purpose going to -_New-England_. GOD wonderfully provides for my orphans.――I am kept -from every degree of doubting; nay, the LORD fills me daily with a -full assurance of faith. He chastens and corrects me, but it is all -in love. O help me to praise him, and thereby add to the obligations -already laid on, dear Mr. _N――――_, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXIII. - - _To Mrs. L――――._ - - _Charles-Town, Aug. 22, 1740._ - _Honoured Mother_, - -ALTHOUGH I had not the pleasure of receiving one line, either from -your dear self, or from any other of my beloved friends; yet my -heart was rejoiced just now by a sailor, who told me, that he saw and -conversed with you the twenty-ninth of _May_ last. I thank you for the -salutation sent to me by him. Indeed I thank you from my very heart: -for I feel myself unworthy of your notice. Every day I love and honour -you more and more; and when you come to judgment, GOD will shew you -how many tears I have shed in secret for you and my dear sister. O let -them not be in vain! _Honoured Mother_, fly to JESUS.――Behold, with -open arms, yonder he stands, ready to embrace you, if you feel your -misery, and are willing to come to him to find rest. May the great GOD, -who only can govern the wills and affections of sinful men, make you -willing in the day of his power! Yesterday GOD brought me hither again. -In a few days, I hope to embark for _New-England_; thence, GOD willing, -you may expect another letter. For near six weeks past I have been -under great weakness of body; but notwithstanding have been enabled -sometimes to preach with great power. I am now somewhat better, but, -without a miracle, cannot think of being long below. Indeed, _honoured -Mother_, I every day long to be dissolved and to be with CHRIST. Pray -tell Mr. _W――――_, that Mr. _H――――_, and _I―――― B――――_, with one or two -more of their relations, I believe, are effectually called of GOD. We -had much power at _Savannah_. GOD hath sent me some family trials; but -all things are working for good. I am, honoured Mother, - - Your ever dutiful son, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXIV. - - _To the Reverend Mr. J―――― W――――._ - - _Charles-Town, Aug. 25, 1740._ - _Dear and Honoured Sir_, - -LAST night I had the pleasure of receiving an extract of your -journal.――This morning I took a walk and read it. I pray GOD to give -it his blessing. Many things I trust will prove beneficial, especially -the account of yourself. Only, give me leave with all humility to -exhort you not to be strenuous in opposing the doctrines of _election_ -and _final perseverance_, when, by your own confession, “you have not -the witness of the spirit within yourself,” and consequently are not a -proper judge. I remember dear brother _E――――_ told me one day, that -“he was convinced of the perseverance of the saints.” I told him, you -was not. He replied, but he will be convinced when he hath got the -spirit himself. I am assured, GOD has now for some years given me this -living witness in my soul. I cannot say, I have since indulged any -doubts (at least for no considerable time) about the forgiveness of my -sins; nay, I can scarce say, that I ever doubted at all. When I have -been nearest death, my evidences have been the clearest. I can say, I -have been on the borders of _Canaan_, and do every day, nay, almost -every moment, long for the appearing of our LORD JESUS CHRIST; not to -evade sufferings, but with a single desire to see his blessed face. -I feel his blessed spirit daily filling my soul and body, as plain -as I feel the air which I breathe, or the food I eat.――Perhaps the -doctrines of election and of final perseverance hath been abused, (and -what doctrine has not,) but notwithstanding, it is children’s bread, -and ought not in my opinion to be with-held from them, supposing it -is always mentioned with proper cautions against the abuse. _Dear_ and -_Honoured Sir_, I write not this to enter into disputation. I hope, at -this time, I feel something of the meekness and gentleness of CHRIST. -I cannot bear the thoughts of opposing you: but how can I avoid it, -if you go about (as your brother _C――――_ once said) to drive _John -Calvin_ out of _Bristol_. Alas, I never read any thing that _Calvin_ -wrote; my doctrines I had from CHRIST and his apostles; I was taught -them of GOD; and as GOD was pleased to send me out first, and to -enlighten me first, so I think he still continues to do it. My -business seems to be chiefly in planting; if GOD send you to water, I -praise his name.――I wish you a thousand-fold increase. I find, by young -_W――――_’s letter, there is disputing among you about _election_, and -_perfection_.――I pray GOD to put a stop to it, for what good end will -it answer?――I wish I knew your principles fully; did you write oftner, -and more frankly, it might have a better effect than silence and -reserve. I have lately had many domestic trials, and that about points -of doctrine, not by myself, but from others in my absence. I daily -wait upon GOD, depending on his promise, that all things, even this, -shall work together for my good. Many in _Charles-Town_, I believe, -are called of GOD. You may now find a christian, without searching the -town as with a candle. Mr. _G――――_ is less furious, at least in public. -He hath expended all his strength, and finds he cannot prevail. Adieu, -_Honoured Sir_, Adieu! My health is better, since I last left _Charles -Town_, and am now freed from domestic cares. With almost tears of love -to you, and the brethren, do I subscribe myself, honoured Sir, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXV. - - _To Mrs. J―――― L――――, in Bristol._ - - _Charles-Town, Aug. 26, 1740._ - _Dear J――――_, - -I Hope you and your little society go on and prosper. I hear there are -divisions among you. Avoid them if possible. The doctrines of election, -and of final perseverance, I hold as well as you.――But then, they -are not to be contended for with heat and passion. Such a proceeding -will only prejudice the cause you would defend. Pray shew this to your -other friends.――Exhort them to avoid all clamour, and evil speaking, -and with meekness receive the ingrafted word which is able to save -your soul. GOD has begun a great work here, and in other parts -of _America_; but yet, I believe, I shall shortly have a call to -_England_. O pray it may be the divine will, that I may have a -prosperous journey; and that you may see me grown in grace, and in -the knowledge of our LORD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST.――With tenderest -love to all, I am - - Your affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXVI. - - _To the Right Reverend Father in GOD, Edmund Lord - Bishop of London_. - - _On board the Savannah, bound from Charles-Town to Boston, - September ――, 1740._ - _My Lord_, - -ALTHOUGH your Lordship has been pleased to caution the people against -running into those extremes, to which your Lordship apprehended my -doctrine would lead men; yet I am persuaded that will not any way -influence your Lordship, as to the contents of this letter. The one -single point which it contains, is this query, “Whether the commissary -of _South-Carolina_ has power given him from your Lordship, to -exercise any _judicial authority_ against me, or any other clergyman, -who doth not belong to his province?” The reason of my putting this -question, I suppose your Lordship will be apprized of, before this -reaches your Lordship’s hands. I have been lately cited to appear -in an ecclesiastical court, erected by the _Reverend_ Mr. _G――――_, -for not reading the common prayer in the meeting-house, which I was -obliged to preach in at _Charles-Town_, (unless I would be silent) -because the commissary would not let me have the use of his church. -I appeared, and have appealed, according to law, to four of his -majesty’s commissioners for reviewing appeals, to know, whether the -commissary ought not to have accepted a _Recusatio judicis_, which I -lodged in court. This, I suppose, they will determine. I only desire -your Lordship’s explicit opinion and determination, whether Mr. -_G――――_, (supposing he hath power over his own clergy,) has authority -to erect such a court to arraign me, who belong to the province of -_Georgia_. The bearer hereof will give me your Lordship’s answer. In -favouring me with which, your Lordship will oblige, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXVII. - - _To Mr. P――――._ - - _Boston, Sept. 19, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Have just now read your kind letter. Blessed be the LORD, for -imparting somewhat of his divine presence to your soul. O may he fill -you brimful, and enable you so to preach, that all your adversaries -may not be able to gainsay or resist. Never fear undertaking to preach -without notes; remember the promise, “Lo I am with you always, even to -the end of the world.” By my master’s leave, I propose to preach with -you, and dear brother _W――――_. I am a worm and no man: I deserve to -be the outcast of the people. On _Sunday_ I arrived at _Rhode-Island_. -Our LORD called some. Yesterday I came hither, to-day I preached. -May the LORD give a divine increase to the seed sown! A great work -is carrying on at _Charles-Town_. The spirit of GOD is moving in -different parts of the world. O my dear, dear brother, let us up and -be doing, and the LORD will be with us. The world is lying in the -wicked one. May GOD make you instrumental to deliver thousands from -his cursed slavery! With difficulty I redeem time to write this. -Brother _B――――_, and _B――――_, are with me. I will endeavour to give -you notice of my coming. In the mean while, cease not praying for - - Your weak and unworthy brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXVIII. - - _To Mr. N――――, at New-York._ - - _Boston, Sept. 23, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -HITHER GOD brought me on _Thursday_ evening: I preached once on -_Friday_, and twice every day since. The power of the LORD advances -sweetly. Our LORD, I believe, will revive his work in the midst of the -years; he enables me to preach plainly. Some ministers, I hope, will -be quickened, as well as people. They attend, and are exceeding civil, -as also the governor. I wrote to you from _Rhode Island_; I shall call -there, as I come to you. On _Monday_, GOD willing, I shall set out to -see Mr. _M――――_, and on _Monday_ fortnight hope to go to _Northampton_. -All the packets of letters came safe. GOD bless my dear, dear Brother -_N――――_ for his great care. Friends from _England_ write strange -things; GOD, I believe, calls me thither. Mr. _W――――_ and the _M――――s_, -I think, are sadly erroneous in some points of doctrine. When I see -you, I will communicate many particulars; now, I have scarce time -to write this. Our dear LORD sweetly fills me with his presence. -My heaven is begun indeed. I feast on the fatted calf. The LORD -strengthens me mightily in the inner man. I find a few souls left -in _Sardis_ that have not defiled their garments. Excuse me to Mr. -_P――――_; I have not time to answer his kind letter! Adieu; I hope to -be with you in about five weeks.――I pray for dear Brother _T――――_, -that he may espouse more souls to the LORD JESUS CHRIST.――My hearty -love to all. - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXIX. - - _To Mr. A――――._ - - _Boston, Sept. 23, 1740._ - _My dear Brother A――――_, - -I Thank you for your letter: May the LORD enable me to send you an -answer of peace. _Sinless perfection_, I think, is unattainable in -this life. Shew me a man that could ever justly say, “I am perfect.” -It is enough if we can say so, when we bow down our heads and give up -the ghost. _Indwelling sin_ remains till death, even in the regenerate, -as the article of the church expresses it.――There is no man that -liveth and sinneth not in thought, word, and deed: However, to affirm -such a thing as perfection, and to deny _final perseverance_, what an -absurdity is this? To be incapable of sinning, and capable of being -finally damned, is a contradiction in terms. From such doctrine may I -ever turn away! Labour, dear Mr. _A._ to be holy, even as GOD is holy; -but do not look for complete perfection here below. What is this, but -in effect to vacate the righteousness of CHRIST? I hear many amongst -you who begun in the spirit, are now ending in the flesh. CHRIST hath -freely justified them, _i. e._ entitled them to all his merits, and -yet they must do so and so to keep themselves in a justified state. -Alas, this is sorry divinity; I have not so learned CHRIST. No, his -gifts and callings are without repentance. Whom he loves, he loves to -the end. Work I will, but not to keep myself in a justified state. My -LORD hath secured that; but I will work to shew my gratitude for his -putting me into a justified state. O that all would study the covenant -of grace. Dear Mr. _A._ I feel that I love you, and I find myself -carried out to write in this manner. My LORD blesses me with all -spiritual blessings; he causes me to rejoice in his salvation. I pray -him to carry on his work in _London_, and to keep his church from -errors; but there must be a sifting as well as a gathering time. It is -meet that such offences should come. All shall work together for good -to those who are _called after GOD’s purpose_: They shall finally be -saved. This much comforts, dear Brother _A――――_, - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXX. - - _To H. H. in Wales._ - - _Boston, Sept. 24, 1740._ - -AND is dear Brother _H. H._ yet alive in body and soul? Blessed be GOD, -who causes those that wait on him to renew their strength. I rejoice -in your success: May you mount with wings like eagles, walk and not be -weary, run and not be faint! You shall not be taken or hurt, till the -appointed hour is come. I hope your conversation was blessed to dear -Mr. _W._ O that the LORD may batter down his free-will, and compel -him to own his sovereignty and everlasting love! Some of _F―――― Lane_ -society, I fear, are running into sad errors; but this happens for -our trial, especially mine. Those that before, I suppose, would have -plucked out their eyes for me, now I suspect, I shall see very shy, -and avoiding me. This is my comfort, the LORD is a never-failing -friend; his truth will make its way in spite of all carnal reasoning. -O pray for me that I may have the spirit of judgment and a sound mind. -My coming to _England_ will try my fidelity to my Master: Nothing -but his strength can enable me to hear all contradictions with -meekness, and to preach with love his everlasting truths. O that -all would study the covenant of grace! The more I look into it, the -more is my soul delighted. Dear Brother _H._ adieu. My dear friend -_J. S._ sits by and cordially salutes you. I hope you have received -my letters. I expect to hear from you by dear Brother _S._ GOD is -working powerfully in _America_. He fills me with his presence, and -causes me to go on my way rejoicing. Grace! grace! I greet all most -affectionately, and am, dear Brother _H._ - - Yours eternally, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J. W._ - - _Boston, Sept. 25, 1740._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -THIS is sent in answer to your letter dated _March 25_.――I think, -I have for some time known what it is to have righteousness, peace, -and joy in the Holy Ghost. These, I believe, are the privileges of -the sons of GOD: But I cannot say I am free from indwelling sin; no, -I find a law in my members warring against the law of my mind: This -makes me to cry out, even now, “Who shall deliver me from the body -of this death?” I thank GOD, our LORD JESUS CHRIST will. I cannot -see wherein the heterodoxy of the article of our church doth consist, -which says, “That this corruption remains even in the regenerate;” -and if that after conversion we cannot sin in thought, word or deed, -I do not know why our LORD taught us to pray to our heavenly Father, -“Forgive us our trespasses.” I am sorry, honoured Sir, to hear by -many letters, that you seem to own a _sinless perfection_ in this life -attainable. I think I cannot answer you better, than a venerable old -minister in these parts answered a Quaker. “Bring me a man that hath -really arrived to this, and I will pay his expences, let him come -from where he will.” I know not what you may think, I do not expect -to say indwelling sin is finished and destroyed in me, till I bow down -my head and give up the ghost. There must be some _Amalekites_ left -in the _Israelites_ land, to keep his soul in action, to keep him -humble, and to drive him continually to JESUS CHRIST for pardon and -forgiveness. I know many abuse this doctrine, and perhaps wilfully -indulge sin, or do not aspire after holiness, because no man is -perfect in this life. But what of that? must I therefore assert -doctrines contrary to the gospel? GOD forbid. Whether the seventh -to the _Romans_, is applicable to a converted person (as many very -eminent saints have thought) is not at all to the purpose: There -are other passages of scripture, which plainly shew that sinless -perfection is not attainable here below. Such as these, “There is no -man that liveth and sinneth not.” “In many things we offend all.” And -I know no sin except the sin against the Holy Ghost, of which a child -of GOD may not be guilty, if GOD should withdraw his grace. - -Whatever you may think of _David_, the scripture says, “He was a -man after GOD’s own heart;” yet how did he fall? And if you will not -permit _Peter_ to have been converted when he denied his Master; what -will you say to St. _Paul_? Did not he sin, do you think, (at least -were not his passions irregular, and what is that but sin) when he -spoke to the High Priest, and called him whited wall? Besides, dear -Sir, what a fond conceit is it to cry up _perfection_, and yet cry -down the doctrine of _final perseverance_? But this, and many other -absurdities you will run into, because you will not own _Election_: -And you will not own Election, because you cannot own it without -believing the doctrine of _Reprobation_. What then is there in -reprobation so horrid? I see no blasphemy in holding that doctrine, -if rightly explained. If GOD might have passed by all, he may pass by -some. Judge whether it is not a greater blasphemy to say, “CHRIST died -for souls now in hell.” Surely, dear Sir, you do not believe there -will be a general _gaol delivery_ of damned souls hereafter. O that -you would study the covenant of grace! O that you were truly convinced -of sin, and brought to the foot of sovereign grace! _Elisha Cole on -GOD’s sovereignty_, and _Veritas Redux_, written by Doctor _Edwards_, -are well worth your reading. But I have done; if you think so meanly -of _Bunyan_, and the Puritan writers, I do not wonder that you think -me wrong. I find your sermon has had its expected success; it hath -set the nation a disputing; you will have enough to do now to answer -pamphlets; two I have already seen. O that you would be more cautious -in casting lots! O that you would not be too rash and precipitant! -If you go on thus, _honoured Sir_, how can I concur with you? It is -impossible; I must speak what I know.――Thus I write out of the fulness -of my heart: I feel myself to be a vile sinner.――I look to CHRIST; I -mourn because I have pierced him. Honoured Sir, pray for me. The LORD -be with your dear soul. About Spring you may expect to see, - - Ever, ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXII. - - _To Mr. G―――― L――――._ - - _Boston, Sept. 26, 1740._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Wrote to you about a month ago from _Charles-Town_.――Since I came -here I have received two letters from you. May the great GOD of heaven -and earth bless your dear soul for thus assisting his poor unworthy -servant: A sense of my ingratitude almost melts me into a flood -of tears.――Indeed I am the very chief of sinners.――O the love, the -sovereign, distinguishing, everlasting love of GOD my Saviour! Praise -him, praise him, dear Mr. _L――――_, with all your soul.――I hope nothing -will cause a division between me and Messrs. _W――――s_: But I must -speak what I know, and confute error wheresoever I find it. About -Spring I hope to come over if the LORD will.――Be pleased to inform my -friends, that last _Sunday_ was sevennight I arrived at _Rhode-Island_, -where I preached and read prayers in the church on _Monday_ and -_Tuesday_ to very large and affected auditories.――On _Wednesday_ I -preached at _Bristol_, in my way to _Boston_.――On _Thursday_ night I -got there, and on _Friday_ preached, and have preached once or twice -every day since.――Almost all the ministers, and vast bodies of people, -have been continually pressing to hear the word of GOD, sometimes in -the fields, and sometimes in the meeting-houses. My health is much -restored by the coolness of the air.――I intend staying about a month -in these parts, then to go to _Philadelphia_ by land, from thence to -_Georgia_ by water, and I hope to embark for _England_ the beginning -of the Spring.――You see by this, dear friend, how our LORD works -by my unworthy hands. Ministers and people, I believe, will be much -quickened.――I hope your dear soul prospers. For CHRIST’s sake avoid -disputing; study your heart and the scriptures; get nearer and nearer -to CHRIST, he will lead you into all truth. My most tender love to all; -if opportunity any way offers, every letter received shall be answered -by, dear dear Mr. _L――――_, - - The meanest of all your christian friends, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXIII. - - _To Mr. I――――._ - - _Boston, Sept. 26, 1740._ - _My dear Brother, I――――_, - -I Thank you for your kind letter. It is the first I have received -from you since I left _England_.――I bless GOD the work goes on in -_Yorkshire_.――May our glorious, sin-forgiving LORD bless you and your -spiritual children more and more! I find, our friends are got into -deputing one with another.――O that the GOD of peace may put a stop to -it! I wish many may not be building on a false foundation, and rest in -a false peace. They own _free justification_, and yet seem to think, -that their continuance in a justified state depends on their doings, -and their wills.――This, I think, is establishing a righteousness -of our own. My dear brother, if we search the scriptures, we shall -find that the word _justified_ implies not only pardon of sin, but -also all its consequences.――“Thus (says Saint _Paul_) those whom -he justified, them he also glorified;” so that if a man was once -justified, he remains so to all eternity.――Here lies the anchor of -all my hopes.――Our LORD having once loved me, he will love me to -the end.――This fills me with joy unspeakable and full of glory.――I -now walk by faith.――I work not to keep myself in a justified state, -(for men or devils can never pluck me out of CHRIST’s hands,) but to -express my love and gratitude for what JESUS hath done for my soul. -This, I think, is what the apostle calls “faith working by love.” -My dear brother, my heart’s desire and prayer to GOD is, that we may -all think and speak the same things.――For, if we are divided among -ourselves, what an advantage will satan get over us? Let us love one -another, excite all to come to CHRIST without exception, and our LORD -will shew us, who are his. The work of GOD goes on exceedingly in -_America_. The LORD is pleased to manifest himself unto my soul more -and more. I am a naughty, stubborn child; but my dear LORD will have -mercy because he will have mercy. It is owing to his distinguishing -love that I am not hardened. Here is, and I believe will be a great -quickning in these parts.――The cloud seems to be moving. Perhaps in -the Spring we may meet face to face. With difficulty I get time to -write this, but I must answer dear Brother _I――――_’s letter.――May -the LORD JESUS be continually with your spirit, and make your soul -brimful of peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. I love you in the bowels -of the crucified Lamb. May he unite us more and more intimately -to his dear self, and to one another. Salute all that love him in -sincerity.――Brethren, pray for us.――That you may be kept by GOD’s -power to eternal salvation, is the prayer of - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother and - poor weak servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXIV. - - _To Mr. W―――― D――――._ - - _Boston, September 28, 1740._ - _Dear Brother W――――_, - -I Thank you for your kind letter from _Osset_; I wish it was written -with more life. I fear you are turning almost to a spirit of bondage: -but it is good for you to be sifted, to make an experienced minister -of JESUS CHRIST. I could not but smile, to find you wink at the -_decency of my dress_. Alas! my brother, I have known long since what -it is to be in that state you are (in my opinion) about to enter into. -I myself thought once that christianity required me to go nasty. I -neglected myself as much as you would have me, for above a twelvemonth: -but when GOD gave me the spirit of adoption, I then dressed _decently_, -as you call it, out of principle: and I am more and more convinced, -that the LORD would have me act, in that respect, as I do. But I am -almost ashamed to mention any such thing: rather let us talk and write -of the love of JESUS; “Let us stand fast in the liberty wherewith -JESUS CHRIST hath made us free, and not be again entangled in a yoke -of bondage.” GOD only knows whether you have done right in leaving -the university, or in declining to exhort. If you do not preach till -you are perfectly free from all sin, I believe you will never preach -again. I could never hear of such a minister or christian yet. My dear -brother, I speak freely to you, because I love you in the bowels of -JESUS CHRIST. He sent his disciples to preach before they were perfect; -nay, when they were weak in grace. Exercise the talents you have, -and that is the way to get more. Thus has GOD dealt with me for these -seven years. “To him that hath, shall be given.” Many of our friends -talk against election: a good reason may be given. I believe they have -never taken pains to search into the true state of the case. What if -some abuse that doctrine; is it therefore false? No; by no means. I am -persuaded, if any of our friends would examine their experiences, they -would find that JESUS CHRIST freely prevented them by his grace; that -he compelled them to come in; and that it is not owing to themselves, -but to the will and promise of GOD, that they are now kept in a state -of grace. But I will say no more. My dear brother, I love you. May the -LORD lead you into all truth. Our dear Master is doing wonders among -us. Praise him lustily, and with a good courage. Adieu. Dear _J―――― -S――――_ salutes you and the brethren, as does - - Yours affectionately, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. Z―――― M――――._ - - _Boston, Sept. 28, 1740._ - _Reverend and dear Brother_, - -I Received――I felt your letter. Surely there is a sympathy between -souls that have drank into the same spirit. GOD willing, I purpose to -come and see you; and will endeavour to send you timely notice: but oh -do not expect too great things from me; for if you do, who knows but -my LORD may desert me; and then what am I? Excuse the brevity of this. -So many persons come to me under convictions, and for advice, that I -have scarce time to eat bread. Wonderful things are doing here. The -word runs like lightning. _Dagon_ daily falls before the ark. I know -you will, in spirit, pray that a due sense of his own vileness may be -continually given to - - Your affectionate, though unworthy, brother and servant - in our glorious _Emmanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXVI. - - _To Mr. W――――, at Bristol._ - - _Boston, Sept. 28, 1740._ - _Dear Brother W――――_, - -WHAT mean you by disputing in all your letters? May GOD give you to -know yourself, and then you will not plead for _absolute perfection_; -or call the doctrine of election a “doctrine of devils.” My dear -brother, take heed; see you are in CHRIST a new creature. Beware of -a false peace: strive to enter in at the strait gate; and give all -diligence to make your calling and election sure. Remember you are but -a babe in CHRIST, if so much. Be humble, talk little, think and pray -much. Let GOD teach you, and he will lead you into all truth. I love -you heartily: I pray you may be kept from error, both in principle -and practice. Salute all the brethren. If you must dispute, stay till -you are master of your subject; otherwise you will hurt the cause you -would defend. Study to adorn the gospel of our LORD in all things; and -forget not to pray for - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXVII. - - _To Mr. G―――― L――――._ - - _Boston, October 9, 1740._ - _My dear Brother L――――_, - -I Write to you again by this ship, though I have scarce time to write -a line. GOD works by me, I think, more than ever. I am quite well in -bodily health. Ministers as well as people are stirred up, and the -government is exceeding civil. In short, GOD is doing greater things -than can be expressed. Oh exhort all to pray, and to give thanks for -me with their whole hearts. The bearer brings the authentic copy of my -appeal; I sent you another copy before from _Carolina_. Be pleased to -keep this I have now sent, till you hear of my coming to _England_: -if I come in the Spring, I will lodge it myself; if not, be pleased to -lodge it for me, and I will pay all expences. O dear brother _L――――_, -what a scene of labours and sufferings lies before me! My dear JESUS -will make me more than conqueror over all: he strengthens and comforts, -he converses with me by night and by day: he gives me all peace and -joy in believing. I pray GOD to keep our dear brother _S――――_ and -others from a false stillness. I am sorry to hear such errors are -risen amongst the brethren. Adieu; the LORD be with your spirit. I -have already collected upwards of four hundred pounds sterling for the -Orphan-house. GOD shews me that _America_ must be my place for action. -Once more adieu. Cease not to pray for, - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXVIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――._ - - _Newhaven, Oct. 24, 1740._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -YOUR letter, just now brought to me by dear brother _N――――_, gave -me great comfort. With fear and trembling, ever since the late -disputations, have I opened letters sent from _Savannah_, but blessed -be GOD, our dear LORD is with my dear friend _H――――_. Blessed be GOD, -my family dwell together in unity. The GOD of love fill you with all -peace and joy in believing. I hope a supply for your then present -wants, came to you soon after you sent your letters: since that, I -have sent from _Boston_ 100 _l._ sterling; next week I hope to send -again from _New-York_, and before _Christmas_ I trust I shall see you -face to face. Wonderful things GOD does for me. I am enabled to preach -and travel better than ever. There has been joy in heaven, I believe, -over many souls repenting. There are some hopes of dear, dear brother -_N――――_’s coming with me. Mr. _B――――_, one of the young ministers of -_Long Island_, with his wife, accompanies me also; and another settled -christian, who holds and experiences the truth as it is in JESUS. -O that all my family may be thus minded! I suppose by this time you -know how matters are determined for me, if Mr. _C――――_ is arrived. GOD -keeps me in suspense: suspense did I say? Blessed be his holy name, -I am quite easy: I am persuaded he will chuse for me a daughter of -_Abraham_. I know not but it may be the divine will that you should -abide in _Georgia_, whilst I go to _England_. Be resigned: see if GOD -does not bring all things about for your good: there is but little -comfort to be expected in _England_. I find I must, if I am faithful, -oppose the errors of many who, I believe, fear GOD: O that I may do it -with meekness and wisdom. Methinks I now long to be with you all at -_Savannah_. Pray for my speedy passage. I am glad GOD is scourging out -the children of _Belial_: you have often heard me say GOD would do so. -Never fear; a remnant will be left, which shall take root downwards, -and bear fruit upwards, and yet fill the land. My dear brother, adieu: -I am called away. I love you more solidly than ever. Dear _J―――― -S――――_, Mr. _F――――_, and _P――――_, love you too: we travel very -comfortably: thousands of prayers are continually put up for me and -mine. My love to all, without exception. Feed the lambs, study the -purity of their hearts, and thereby rejoice the soul of - - Yours most affectionately and eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXIX. - - _To Mr. J―――― W――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740._ - _Dear and honoured Sir_, - -I Received your’s, dated _March 11_, this afternoon. Oh that we were -of one mind: for I am yet persuaded you greatly err. You have set a -mark you will never arrive at, till you come to glory. I think few -enjoy such continued manifestations of GOD’s presence as I do, and -have done, for some years; but I dare not pretend to say I shall be -absolutely perfect. O, dear Sir, many of GOD’s children are grieved -at your principles; O that GOD may give you a sight of his free, -sovereign, and electing love! But no more of this: why will you compel -me to write thus? why will you dispute? I am willing to go with you -to prison, and to death; but I am not willing to oppose you. My heart -is now much affected: indeed I love and honour you. Dear, dear Sir, -study the covenant of grace, that you may be consistent with yourself: -hasten O LORD, the blessed time! I fancy I shall embark for _England_ -about Spring; but am not yet determined. GOD shews me his goodness -plenteously every day. I dwell in CHRIST, and CHRIST in me: glory -be to sovereign grace. I seem to have a new body, and the LORD -JESUS greatly enriches my soul. O I am a poor sinner! but our LORD -frequently manifests himself in such a manner, that it throws me into -an agony which my body is almost too weak to bear. Honoured Sir, adieu. -O build up, but do not lead into error, the souls once committed to -the charge of - - Your affectionate, unworthy brother and servant, - in the loving JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXX. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――, in Wales._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740._ - _My very dear Brother H――――_, - -I Wrote to you from _Boston_. Your letter, written near a twelvemonth -ago, came to my hand this afternoon. My soul is knit to you: we both -speak and think the same things. The LORD be with your spirit. JESUS -manifests forth his glory daily in these parts. Though I am such a -vile, worthless, ungrateful wretch, yet the LORD fills me out of his -divine fulness day by day. His word is like a fire, and a hammer: last -week I saw many quite struck down. Our LORD is working upon little -children. _America_, ere long, will be famous for christians. Surely -the candlestick will shortly be removed from _England_. Little did I -think, when Mr. _E―――― J――――_ wrote, that I should preach in all the -chief places of _America_: but that is now done; glory be to rich, -free, and sovereign grace! Perhaps about Spring I may embark for my -native country: the LORD vouchsafe us a happy meeting. O _Wales_, thou -art dear to my soul! My love to all the brethren. Dear brother _H――――_, -I pray GOD you may prosper, even as your soul prospers. Expect another -journal shortly: but wait till we come to glory, fully to see and hear -what GOD hath done for - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXI. - - _To his Excellency Jonathan Belcher, Esq., in Boston._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740._ - -THOUGH late, I now snatch a few moments to send your excellency my -acknowledgments for all honours received at _Boston_: they are much -upon my heart. I pray GOD to reward your excellency a thousand-fold. - -Great things hath the glorious _Emmanuel_ done for me and his people -on the way: the word has been attended with much power. Surely our -LORD intends to set _America_ in a flame. This week Mr. _G―――― T――――_ -purposes to set out for _Boston_, in order to blow up the divine fire -lately kindled there. I recommend him to your excellency as a solid, -judicious, and zealous minister of the LORD JESUS CHRIST: he will be -ready to preach daily: I suppose his brethren will readily open their -doors: may the LORD at the same time open the people’s hearts, that -they may diligently attend to the things that shall be spoken. Dear Mr. -_R――――_ grows in grace: I left him at _Brunswick_, full of gratitude -for his late journey. I am persuaded it was of GOD. I hope he will -be instrumental in quickening both ministers and people. He is worthy -of your excellency’s particular regard: under GOD he may need it. I -expect he will soon be reviled and persecuted for his blessed Master’s -sake: may the LORD enable him to rejoice and be exceeding glad. Dear -Sir, the welfare of dear _Boston_ people, especially the welfare of -your own soul, lies upon me night and day. I remember your tears: I -remember your excellency’s words, “Mr. _Whitefield_, pray that I may -hunger and thirst after righteousness.” O how did these words rejoice -me! for I thought your excellency wanted a more clear view of your own -vileness, and of the all-sufficiency of JESUS CHRIST; I mean a more -clear, experimental view: for what is all head-knowledge without that -of the heart? it only settles people more upon their lees. May GOD -give you to see and to follow the simplicity of the blessed JESUS. -Whilst you are in the world, may you not be of it: may you be dead to -magnificence, and alive to nothing but what leads you directly to your -GOD. - -_Honoured Sir_, I make no apology for this freedom: your excellency -bid me not spare rulers; no, not the chief of them. Indeed I long -after your salvation; O that I could do any thing to promote it! If my -prayers, or any thing within my power may be instrumental thereunto, -your excellency may command, honoured Sir, - - Your Excellency’s obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXII. - - _To Mr. M――――, at London._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1740._ - _My dear Brother_, - -STILL my LORD shews me greater things. At _New-York_ the Holy Ghost -came down like a mighty rushing wind. At _Baskenridge_ still a greater -awakening among young and old. One that received CHRIST cried out, -“He is come! He is come!” &c. The poor creature was wrapped up in the -LORD JESUS: and both there and at _New-York_ my soul was taken almost -out of the body. At _Newark_ the LORD worked wonderfully amongst some -young men; and here at _Philadelphia_ the word runs very swiftly. -This afternoon, how beautiful did the LORD appear in his sanctuary! -I would cry out, “How amiable are thy dwellings, thou LORD of hosts!” -In several places, almost as large as _Northampton_, are many faithful -labourers. We all think and speak the same things: O that it was so -at _London_! The LORD enables me to confute error wherever I see it. -Pray for me, that I may be made faithful to my LORD and Master: he is -dearer to me every day: he will have mercy, because he will have mercy. -See brother _L――――_’s letter. Another journal comes out shortly. My -hearty love to all. Stand fast in the faith: quit yourselves like men: -be strong. Above all, give thanks to GOD; and pray in behalf of, dear -Mr. _M――――_, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXIII. - - _To Mr. G―――― L――――._ - - _Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1740._ - _Dear Brother L――――_, - -I Wrote to you last week from _New-York_. You may give friends this -brief account of me: On last _Saturday_ evening I arrived at this -place, having preached at _Staten Island_, _Newark_, _Baskenridge_, -_New Brunswick_, and _Trenton_, in my way hither from _New York_. A -wonderful presence of GOD was observable at _New-York_, _Baskenridge_, -and _Newark_. I preached here twice yesterday, and also to-day, in -a large house built by the people since I was here last. It is an -hundred feet long, and seventy feet wide; and is intended for a school, -as well as a place for public worship. The walls are brick, and the -roof is now almost ready to be put up. GOD hath remarkably appeared -in the carrying on the building; and the holy spirit hath sweetly -moved on the hearers souls every time I preached in it. I intend, GOD -willing, to stay here this, and to embark for _Georgia_ the latter end -of next week; and propose, GOD willing, to return to _England_ for a -short time, in the Spring. - -The LORD highly favours me; I am more sick of myself, and more in love -with CHRIST daily: he is a dear, dear Master: Oh that all would love -him with all their hearts! Adieu: it is late. The LORD be with your -spirit. - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D――――, at New Brunswick._ - - _Salem, Nov. 20, 1740._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -EXCESS of business, not a want of love, prevented my writing to you -from _Philadelphia_. I feel that I love you in the bowels of the dear -JESUS, our ever blessed and glorious _Emmanuel_: he hath done great -things for me since you left us. Yesterday at _Cohansie_ the spirit of -the LORD moved over the whole congregation: what reason have we to be -thankful for the great things we both see and hear! My dear brother, -indeed I desire to lie in the dust. O how good is my LORD to me! -thoughts cannot conceive, or words express it! I long to be in glory, -that I may praise him as I would. I rejoice to hear that the LORD is -with you. Shortly, I believe, you will evangelize. All friends kindly -salute you. Adieu. In great haste, I am - - Your very affectionate, though unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXV. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――._ - - _Bohemia, (Maryland) Nov. 24, 1740._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -I Rejoice to hear that you are married: I salute your wife and -my sister in CHRIST: may you love one another, as CHRIST and his -church. I have lately conversed closely with _P―――― B――――_: alas! we -differ widely in many respects; therefore, to avoid disputation and -jealousies on both sides, it is best to carry on the work of GOD apart. -The divisions among the brethren sometimes grieve, but do not surprize -me. How can it be otherwise, when teachers do not think and speak -the same things? GOD grant we may keep up a cordial undissembled love -towards each other, notwithstanding our different opinions. O how do -I long for heaven! Surely, _there_ will be no divisions, no strife -there, but who shall sing with most affection to the Lamb that sitteth -upon the throne. Dear _James_, there I hope to meet thee; for the dear -JESUS, I believe, hath locked thee fast in his almighty arms. Lean -thou on his sacred bosom night and day; keep close to him, and be what -I long to be, a little child. Adieu. I am ready to weep tears of love. -My dear brother, I should be glad to wash any of the brethren’s feet: -indeed I am now willing to be the servant of all. The more the LORD -honours me, the more I feel my unworthiness. I am sometimes sick of -love, and often, often sick of self. O that GOD should have mercy on -such a sinner! Help me, dear _James_, to praise my Saviour. A glorious -church is raising in _America_. The LORD mightily reveals his arm. -It would please you to see his outgoings, his stately steps in the -great congregation. I only want fellow-labourers. I look to JESUS for -this, and for every thing. I desire you to print nothing against your -conscience: only do not immediately censure every thing that may not -seem clear to you: our LORD may guide me, even into things which as -yet you may not see into. The day of judgment will discover all. Adieu. - - Ever, ever yours in our blessed _Emmanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXVI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J. W._ - - _Bohemia (Maryland) Nov. 24, 1740._ - _Dear and Hon. Sir_, - -LAST night brother _G――――_ brought me your two kind letters. O that -there may be harmony, and very intimate union between us! Yet it -cannot be, since you hold _universal Redemption_. But no more of this. -Perhaps, in Spring, we may see each other face to face. This evening, -GOD willing, I propose to embark for _Georgia_. Wonderful things our -LORD brings to pass, in these parts, every day. Here is a close -opposition from some of the _Presbyterian Clergy_. The seed of the -serpent is the same in all, of whatever communion. I expect much more -opposition every hour. The devil rages in _London_. He begins now to -triumph indeed. The children of GOD are disunited among themselves. -The king of the church shall yet over-rule all things for good. My -dear brother, for CHRIST’s sake avoid all disputation. Do not oblige -me to preach against you; I had rather die. Be gentle towards the ――――. -They will get great advantage over you, if they discover any irregular -warmth in your temper. I cannot for my soul unite with the _Moravian -Brethren_. _Honoured Sir_, Adieu! - - Yours eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXVII. - - _Saint George’s (Pensylvania) Nov. 24, 1740._ - _Dear Brother T――――_, - -GOD has revived his own work in _Philadelphia_. His glory filled -the great house. The affairs belonging thereto, I believe, are -well settled. We have had precious times at _Cohansi_, _Salem_, -_Fogs-mannor_, _Nottingham_, _Whiteclay_, _Creek_ and _Bohemia_. -Brother _G――――_ is come from _England_ very opportunely. Brother -_S――――_ comes about _Christmas_. The brethren I think do grow, though -sadly divided. But our LORD will order all for good.――Upon several -accounts, I think it best to embark for _England_ as soon as possible -in the Spring. O pray for me, that I may not by any means grieve the -children of GOD. I hope the weather is warm enough for you. I trust -our LORD has warmed and filled your dear soul. Your brother _Charles_ -is with me. My dear fellow travellers salute you and our dear brother -_R――――_. My love to all that love the LORD JESUS. The war goes -on bravely between _Michael_ and the _Dragon_. Our dear LORD (O -condescending love!) is wonderous kind to your poor, weak, unworthy -brother and servant in -CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXVIII. - - _Reedy-Island, Nov. 26, 1740._ - _Dear Mr. F――――_, - -I Thank you for your letter.――You may print my life, as you desire. -GOD willing, I shall correct my two volumes of sermons, and send them -the very first opportunity.――Pray write to me by every ship, that goes -shortly to _Charles-Town_.―――― - -I shall embark for _England_, GOD willing, about _February_.――I desire -I may hear from you there also, as often as possible. I have prefaced -_Jenks_, and _Presumptuous sinners detected_. Mr. _Bradford_ has the -last, because he said he was to print it. You may have it of him.――The -_Ornaments of the daughter of Sion_, you may have hereafter. Dear -Sir, Adieu. I do not despair of your seeing the reasonableness of -christianity. Apply to GOD; be willing to do the divine will, and -you shall know it. I have heard from Mr. _S――――_; all is well. To-day -several friends have taken leave of me at this place, waiting for a -fair wind in order to embark for _Georgia_. I think I have been on -shore 73 days, and have been enabled to travel upwards of 800 miles, -and to preach 170 times, besides very frequent exhortations at private -houses. I have collected, in goods and money, upwards of 700 _l._ -sterling, for the Orphan-house; blessed be GOD! Great and visible are -the fruits of my late, as well as former feeble labours, and people in -general seem more eager after the word than ever. O the love of GOD to - - Your unworthy friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXXXIX. - - _To Mr. N. in New-York._ - - _Charles-Town, Dec. 10, 1740._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -IN eight days, the LORD brought us hither. We arrived last night, when -the Redeemer vouchsafed so to fill me with his divine consolations, -that I could scarce sleep. I have been preaching this morning on the -fire that happened of late from these words, Isa. i. 9. “Except the -LORD of HOSTS had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have -been as ♦_Sodom_, and we should have been like unto _Gomorrah_.” I am -now determined to see _England_ as soon as possible. I have had much -of GOD’s presence in our passage hither from _Philadelphia_, and have -many precious letters to send you. O follow me with your prayers. I -leave _Charles-Town_, GOD willing, to-night, in order to hasten to -their relief, and shall go in the same sloop which brought me here, -to my beloved _Georgia_. As soon as possible, I will send you a long -letter. In the mean while, accept of my love from, dear Mr. _N――――_, - - Your very affectionate friend and brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘Sodam’ replaced with ‘Sodom’ - - - LETTER CCXL. - - _To Mr. G―――― C――――._ - - _On board the Savannah for Georgia, Dec. 11, 1740._ - _Dear Brother C――――_, - -YOUR late letters, especially that which you sent me by way of -_Charles-Town_, made me smile.――I was glad to find that you had not so -far thrown off all outward things, as to resolve not to write to any -one; and I thought I knew the frame of your heart, as though I was -within you. My dear, dear _George C――――_, I love you tenderly in the -bowels of JESUS CHRIST, and therefore would not have you be deceived. -Alas, why do you pervert this text of scripture, “Be still, and know -that I am the LORD,” as if it was designed to keep a christian from -striving, or meant a _stillness of body_, or waiting upon GOD only in -silence? The expression is taken out of the 46th Psalm, where GOD’s -fury against the heathen is described in the most lively colours; -and then lest his people should complain of the severity of his -dispensations, GOD commands them to be _still_, “not to murmur or -repine, knowing that he was the LORD, and might do what seemed him -good.” Thus _Tate_ and _Brady_ in their translations explain it, and -this is the true and genuine meaning of that sentence. It hath no -reference to stillness in prayer, or stillness of body. Dear brother, -I speak to you plainly, because I love you. I think I know what it is -to wait upon the LORD in silence, and to feel the spirit of GOD making -intercession for me with groanings which cannot be uttered. Often have -I been at such times filled as it were with the fulness of GOD, and -I do now daily carry on a communion with the most high GOD and the -ever-blessed JESUS. But all this I fear is contrary to the _false -stillness_, you and some others seem to have fallen into. I was just -in the same case some years ago at _Oxford_, when I declined writing, -reading, and such like exercises, because I would be _still_. The LORD -convinced me; I pray he may also convince you of this delusion. Dear -_George_, consider how contrary your maxim is to our Saviour’s. You -say, “_Be still._” He says, “_Strive._” As in an agony, “Strive that -you may enter in at the strait gate.” Indeed, my dear man, I pity you, -knowing you have but a weak judgment, though a well-meaning heart. -You once thought that you was born again; then, you found it was only -an elapse of the Holy Ghost. You used to say, you wished you could -believe from experience in the doctrine of election; now, you find -as yet no evidence within yourself that you are a real christian. -You take too much refuge, I fear, in the doctrine of _universal -redemption_. It is the finest doctrine in the world to cause a soul to -be falsely still, and to say _Peace, Peace_, when there is no peace. -You seem to insist upon sinless perfection, and to think a man hath -no real salvation till he literally cannot commit sin. From whose -experience do you write this? Not from your _own_, dear _George_; -for I much question, if ever your heart was truly broken or had a -saving closure with CHRIST. You seem to mention _Peter Bochler_ as -an instance; but alas, though he has been washed in the blood of the -Lamb, so as to be justified from all his sins, yet like me his feet -want washing still, and will, till he bows down his head and gives up -the ghost. I have conversed with him intimately. Take heed, brother, -of having any thing too much in admiration, or of thinking you must -necessarily find CHRIST at such and such a place. You have been at -_M――――_. I believe you have seen many dear children of GOD; but have -you returned home with CHRIST in your heart? Your letters do not speak -much improvement in the school of CHRIST. If GOD loves you, he will -let you see the vanity of your present imaginations, and bring you to -see that salvation is not of him that willeth, or of him that runneth, -but of GOD that sheweth mercy. Dear _George_, be not given to change; -be not too fond of new things. “To the law and to the testimony,” and -see what CHRIST and his apostles have spoken. I speak this out of love, -and not in reference to myself. If GOD blesses another ministry to -your soul, I rejoice, yea and will rejoice. But if I see you fall into -errors, do not be angry if I tell you the truth. If you are, I will -notwithstanding love and pray for you. That errors are crept in among -you, I think is too plain: but I suspend my judgment till the Spring, -when, GOD willing, I hope to be in _London_. In the mean while pray -for me, that I may with joy bear to be deserted by those, who once -were blessed and awakened by my ministry, and to whom I am a spiritual -father, though they may have many instructors. Dear _George_, may the -LORD be with you. He only knows how dear you are to my heart. It is -near midnight; but it was much upon my heart to write you this letter. -That GOD may sanctify it to your edification and comfort, is the -hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――._ - - _Good-Hope (South-Carolina) Jan. 1, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I am now going to _Charles-Town_, in order to embark for _England_; -the cloud of GOD’s providence seems to be moving that way; I have -enjoyed much of the divine presence since I left _Boston_, and have -had a comfortable Christmas with my dear family at _Georgia_. At -my return, I found my Orphan-houshold removed from _Savannah_ to -_Bethesda_, and great improvements made during the time of my absence. -The great house will be finished, GOD willing, so as to be habitable, -in about two months. It would have been finished so far by this time, -if the _Spaniards_ had not taken a schooner loaded with bricks and -other provisions to a considerable value; but GOD about the same time -stirred up the heart of a planter in _South-Carolina_, lately brought -home at the orphan-house to GOD, to send my family some rice and beef. -At other times, when they have wanted food, the _Indians_ have brought -plenty of venison. GOD, every day, more and more convinces us that -this work is of him. His power has been made known, especially among -the young ones. I bless GOD, I have settled my family to my great -satisfaction, and verily believe I shall live to see great things come -from the Orphan-house. GOD works upon the hearts of the labourers. One -woman hath had a glorious discovery of CHRIST made to her heart: last -week, two or three men where brought into heart-distress, and another -young man that came to see us, was made so sick of sin, as to feel the -want of, and to enquire after the great and all-powerful physician of -souls. My family, I think, consists now of 89 persons. Next year my -expences will be contracted much; but at present, I am in debt about -500 _l._ sterling. However, I know in whom I have believed, ONE who -is able to pay it. My public accounts will be published as soon as -I arrive at _London_, with a prospect of the Orphan-house, and other -little houses and gardens annexed unto it. I am now at the house of -one _Mr. Jonathan B――――_, who, I trust, with his brother _Mr. H―――― -B――――_, and another young man, lately a player in _New-York_, are -settled by a living faith in JESUS CHRIST. The latter, I intend for -the ministry. Mr. _H―――― B――――_’s wife died not long since, rejoicing -in GOD her Saviour. Several others also in these parts are grown -in grace, and Mr. _C――――_’s ministry hath been much blessed.――Satan -hath been sowing tares in old _England_. Oh that _Boston_ ministers -and people may pray for me! Indeed, I love them in the bowels of the -blessed JESUS. _Vale! longum etsi spero non in æternum, vale._ That -CHRIST’s kingdom may flourish in your heart, and that you may greatly -promote it in the souls of others, is the hearty prayer of, Reverend -and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate unworthy fellow-servant, in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER ♦CCXLII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――._ - - _Charles-Town, Jan. 12, 1741._ - _Dear and Reverend Sir_, - -LAST _Saturday_ I was taken up for being concerned in correcting -the inclosed printed letter, written by Mr. _H―――― B――――n_, whose -conversion you have an account of in the other letter sent herewith. I -think it may be for GOD’s glory to have them all printed in _Boston_. -I am bound over to appear next sessions, as well as Mr. _B――――_. He, -I believe, for _libelling the king_, and I for _libelling the clergy_, -in saying they break the Canons daily. I think, dear Sir, these are -earnests of what I must expect to meet with in my native country. -Opposition, as yet, seems to be only like a cloud rising out of the -sea, no bigger than a man’s hand. Perhaps it will gather to a great -body, and break upon the church of GOD. Our LORD will be our refuge in -every storm. He is much with my soul, and fills me abundantly, I could -almost say superabundantly, with his presence. We have seen precious -times. One person had a glorious discovery of CHRIST about two days -ago. I expect my family will be like the burning bush. I find I am -in debt for them upwards of six hundred pounds: but the LORD will -provide.――My most tender love awaits all that love him. I am to appear -at the sessions by an attorney. Dear Sir, remember, - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘CXLII’ replaced with ‘CCXLII’ - - - LETTER CCXLIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――, at Rhode Island._ - - _Charles-Town, Jan. 16, 1741._ - _Reverend and Dear Sir_, - -I Snatch a few moments to write you a line before I embark for -_England_. Blessed be GOD, you are near your desired haven. Yet a -little while, and you shall safely arrive in _Abraham_’s bosom. _I -præ, sequar, esti non passibus equis._――Great things GOD is doing -daily. The kingdom of heaven (I hope) is at hand. I am bound over -to appear at the sessions here, by my attorney, for libelling the -clergy, because I corrected the letter inclosed. A scene of suffering -lies before me, but wherefore should I fear? Our LORD strengthens me -mightily in the inner man. We have had much of his presence in our -assemblies. But I must have done. Dear and Reverend Sir, adieu. I -scarce expect to see you again in the flesh; but this is my comfort, -I shall see and rejoice with you above. There, I will sit and tell you -what GOD hath done for - - Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――, in Boston._ - - _Charles-Town, Jan. 16, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THOUGH I have packed up two letters for you already, yet I cannot -refrain from sending you a third. Just now I was favoured with yours -dated last _December 1_. Indeed, it gave me much comfort, and endeared -the writer of it to me more and more. Sir, why am I thus highly -favoured! I now wish to sink exceeding low, and cry out, Grace, -grace! O the love of GOD! The sovereignty of CHRIST! The unchangeable -loving-kindness of our heavenly Father! Excuse me, dear Mr. _C――――_; -my heart is full. I want for all men to love the LORD JESUS. It -greatly rejoices me, to hear so many are coming to him. He is a loving -tender master. He attends to my minutest wants, and surprizingly helps -me in every emergency. I thank dear Mr. _C――――_, for the kind token of -his love. Good measure pressed down and running over, may GOD return -into your bosom! You will be pleased to correct the press. I am filled -with comfort to hear of the conduct of the dear governor, &c. I cannot -but think our LORD will let his word run, and be abundantly glorified -in _America_. _Boston_ people are much upon my heart. The memory of -their forefathers is precious to my soul. May you live to see the -spirit of scriptural _Puritanism_ universally prevail! I hope you -will write every opportunity. If I am in prison, it will make me arise -at midnight to sing praises to GOD, to hear that _Boston_ people are -alive to CHRIST. At present, my heart is full of peace and joy. We -have had solemn meetings. I am much strengthened on every side; but -I must not say more. Time is short. Dear Mr. _C――――_, adieu. May the -LORD be with you and yours. I could now drop a tear of love.――My love -to all. - - I am yours &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLV. - - _To Mr. W―――― D――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Minerva, for England, Jan. 17, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -MR. _P――――_ hath just brought me your kind letter. Blessed be GOD, -that his word runs and is glorified in _Boston_. Surely, dear Sir, I -shall never forget that people; indeed, they are very near and dear -unto my soul. May those of your own household, in particular, be not -only convicted but converted; may the dear JESUS fill you with all -peace and joy in believing, and enable you to pray for, dear Sir, - - Yours in the blessed JESUS, - - _G. W._ - -P. S. Excuse great haste; our ship is just under sail. My dear -companions kindly salute you and yours. - - - LETTER CCXLVI. - - _To Mr. Wm. G――――._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 8, 1741. in latitude 35, 24 N._ - _My dear brother_, - -SEE how soon I write to you, and from thence infer how I love you. -Whether it proceeds from the pride and naughtiness of my heart, I -cannot tell; but, I frankly confess, I love to see persons humble, -kind, and courteous to those, whom GOD hath made their spiritual -fathers. I believe it is well pleasing to GOD, and very amiable in -the sight of all good men. Your christian grateful behaviour to me in -this respect, hath much endeared you to me. GOD only knows how I love -you. I bear you upon my heart, and often secretly sigh out before the -LORD,――“O let my dear brother _G――――_ live before thee.” This is the -desire of my soul for you. I cannot wish you a better thing. Yet a -little while, and we shall be together again. But, before that time, -I expect to suffer great things. The LORD is able to deliver me out of -all. I have just now experienced his divine assistance in composing a -sermon. This is the _sixth_ which he has enabled me to finish, since -I have been on board. O my dear brother, love a precious CHRIST, and -shew it by adorning his gospel in all things. He has highly favoured -you, indeed he hath. If you and I are not eminently holy, if you and -I think any thing too much to be done for the LORD, we are of all men -the most ungrateful. O the love of CHRIST! I feel it, I feel it. GOD -now sheds it abroad in my heart. May it abundantly also be shed on -you by the Holy Ghost. Write to me if in prison, my friends will bring -it to me there. GOD will hear me for you even in a dungeon. Methinks -I see you weep; but weep not for me, unless it be before the LORD, -and then I care not how soon you retire, and pour out your prayers in -behalf of, dear Mr. _G――――_, - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLVII. - - _To Mrs. L――――, at Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 11, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. L――――_, - -YOU was upon the mount when I left _Charles-Town_; I hope you have -not thrown yourself down. Keep close to CHRIST, and cast not off your -first love. Remember what GOD has done for your soul. Forget not the -glorious discovery JESUS CHRIST has made of himself to your heart; and -though a cloud should overshadow you, let not Satan make you doubt of -your being a child of GOD. O Mrs. _L――――_, how holy ought you to be -in all manner of conversation and godliness! Why are you taken? Why -are you in the arms of everlasting love? Methinks I hear you cry out, -Grace! grace! And well you may; for indeed you are saved by grace. The -free grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST be with you now and for ever more. -Blessed be GOD, I experience much of it in the ship. I hope divine -grace moves me to send you this small letter. If GOD blesses it to -your soul, put up a short prayer for - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLVIII. - - _To Mrs. W――――, at James-Island._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 11, 1741._ - _Dear Madam_, - -MY heart’s desire and prayer to GOD is, that you may be saved. I hope -you will find, it is not impossible for you to be born again when you -are old. GOD forbid. Though at the eleventh hour, I trust our LORD -will meet you, and cause you, whenever you depart, with good old -_Simeon_, to depart in peace. I heartily thank you, madam, for all -favours conferred on me and mine. We have not forgotten you on board. -I do not forget to mention you in my secret prayers. May GOD reveal -his dear Son in your soul, and fill you with all peace and joy in -believing! O what a staff will this be to you in your old age! How -pleasantly then will you walk by your vault, and say, “There shall -I lay my weary bones ere long.” I hope you do not startle at the -thoughts of death. Believe in CHRIST. Get a saving interest in his -blood, and then you may cry out, “O death, where is thy sting! O -grave, where is thy victory?” Blessed be GOD, the prospect of death is -pleasing to my soul. I would not live here always: I want to be gone. -That you and I, whenever our appointed time is come, may live with -CHRIST, is the earnest prayer of, madam, - - Your obliged friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXLIX. - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 12, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. T._, - -MUST I pray for you in the language of _Martha_ and _Mary_, saying, -“LORD, she whom thou lovest is sick!” Or hath he who touched _Peter_’s -wife’s mother, rebuked the illness that was coming upon you, when -I saw you last, and caused it to leave you? But, however the LORD -has dealt with you, I hope he hath been glorified in and by you. I -heard he had by his word and spirit spoken to your soul, and given -you satisfaction, that he had loved you with an everlasting love. I -rejoice in it from my soul. The LORD increase your comforts daily, -and shew you all his glory. Dear Mrs. _T――――_, think often of your -departed sister. Follow her as she did CHRIST; and then shortly, where -she is you shall be also. O the happiness she now enjoys! It is too -dazzling for mortal eyes. I want to leap my seventy years, and fly -away to GOD. Well, it will not be long. Dear Mrs. _T――――_, let us -patiently tarry till our change come. Our LORD will carry us safe -through time, and waft us triumphantly into eternity. The love of -CHRIST constrained me to write these lines; accept them for his sake, -from - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCL. - - _To Mr. H――――, at Port-Royal, South-Carolina._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. H._, - -THE love of CHRIST constrains me to write you a line, though as yet no -further than the western islands. I trust the LORD hath called you by -name, and enabled you to say “Speak LORD, for thy servant heareth.” -Who knows but he may call you yet further, even to minister before -him? Whether it be so or not, make it your daily study to prepare -your heart to serve the LORD in any station. To be a doorkeeper in the -house of GOD, is a glorious post. Surely, you and I may sing of mercy -and electing love. How often have we acted a part for the devil? -The remembrance of it is grievous unto me. Let us both now labour -daily to act a part for GOD. He heaps kindnesses on me every hour. We -have hitherto had a wonderful pleasant passage. I hope it is in some -measure owing to your prayers. Let this encourage you to pray again. -Our GOD is a GOD hearing prayer. I write now, lest excess of business -should prevent my writing in _England_. The LORD is girding me for the -battle, and strengthening me mightily in the inner man. “O give thanks -unto the LORD of all Lords, because his mercy endureth for ever.” You -will not fail writing to - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. C――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -THE LORD hath been with me, and is now with me in an especial manner. -I have been enabled to prepare nine discourses for the press. My body -waxes stronger, and last night the great GOD in a glorious manner -filled and overshadowed my soul. I am panting after the compleat -holiness of JESUS my LORD. I have various scenes of action lying -before me, and am waiting upon the LORD my GOD for direction. He -assures me that he will be with me. He saith unto me, “Fear not, speak -out, no one shall set upon thee to hurt thee.” Dear Mr. _C――――_, GOD’s -goodness quite surprizes me. I cannot express myself better, than in -a stanza or two of _Erskine_ in his Paraphrase upon _Solomon_’s song. - - I. - - _What wonders LORD dost thou perform, - That stoopest thus so low, - To put thy beauty on a worm, - And then commend it so._ - - II. - - _What, dost thou praise a native black? - I blush to find it true; - O lend me words to render back - The praise to whom ’tis due._ - -I hope my love will find acceptance with all your flock who know -me, and who love the LORD JESUS in sincerity. I have often comforted -myself and companions with this saying, “Now Mr. _C――――_ and our other -friends are praying for us.” At the receipt of this, turn your prayers -into praises, and then turn your praises again into prayers, in behalf -of, dear Mr. _C――――_, - - Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER ♦CCLII. - - _To Mr. H. B._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _My dear brother in CHRIST_, - -BEFORE this is brought to your hands, I suppose you will have been -arraigned before the Chief Justice. I am persuaded our LORD will plead -on your behalf, and strengthen you with his mighty power in the inner -man. The greater progress you make in the divine life, the more you -will discover of the enmity that is in the seed of the serpent. It -bruised our master’s heel; it will also bruise ours. Here is our -comfort, GOD who cannot lie, hath told us, that “we shall bruise his -head.” In the strength of this promise, I can give men and devils -the challenge. Whole legions are ready to beset me. By the help of my -GOD, I shall triumph over all.――I hope we shall grow in grace before -we meet again. You and I have weak crazy tabernacles; I hope you -rejoice in the prospect of putting them off shortly; blessed be GOD, -I do.――Dear Sir, get acquainted more and more with electing love; -study the covenant of redemption, and see how GOD loved you with -an everlasting love. This will cause you to glory only in the LORD, -and to pass through the valley of the shadow of death, with a full -assurance of faith; knowing that CHRIST hath engaged to lodge you safe -in eternal glory. Thither your dear wife is gone before us; I often -think of, I could almost say envy her; but perhaps that is wrong. Yet -a little while, and our precious LORD shall take both you, and - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘CLII’ replaced with ‘CCLII’ - - - LETTER CCLIII. - - _To Mr. B――――, at Port-Royal._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B._, - -I Hope you will never forget that day, hour, or moment, wherein GOD -met you at _Savannah_. If you have in some measure, do so no more. -“Awake thou that sleepest, and CHRIST shall give thee light.” Love not -the world, neither the things that are in the world. No man can serve -two masters. Use the world, but let it be as though you used it not. -The fashion of this world will soon, very soon, fade away. Dear Mr. -_B――――_, I am persuaded, will not be offended at this plain dealing. -He knows I love him. GOD knows it also. With much affection, I -subscribe myself - - Your friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLIV. - - _To Mrs. B._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. B._, - -WHEN you read that JESUS loved _Lazarus_, _Mary_, and their sister -_Martha_, do you not make a particular application to your own family? -I think our LORD has been equally kind to your houshold. Walk as -becometh members of the houshold of faith. I hope you have had full -satisfaction about your state, and know assuredly that CHRIST is your -Saviour. If not, be not discouraged; go on the way of duty, is the way -of safety. By-and-by your soul shall magnify the LORD, and your spirit -rejoice in GOD your Saviour. This is the hearty desire of, dear Mrs. -_B――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLV. - - _To Mr. J―――― B――――._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -YOUR name, _Jonathan_, puts me in mind of a good old testament -worthy. Follow him in his faith, and dare to scale the wall of -the _Philistines_. Be not afraid, though already bound over as a -_libeller_; shortly you shall shine in the kingdom of your Father; I -say, your Father; for GOD is your GOD, and will be your guide and -guard unto death. Does not this astonish you? Do not you feel your -heart melt? Are you not ready to cry out, “Why me, LORD?” The oftener -you repeat such language the better. I love to see a soul lie in the -dust under a sense of electing love; you and yours have been highly -favoured. May GOD give you all grace to walk worthy of the holy -vocation wherewith you are called. I write this out of the fulness of -my heart. Though not present, yet I fain would converse with you. O -that I may see you grown in grace! Remember me to your wife. The LORD -be with you both: He hath been, he is now with me. You are often upon -my heart. GOD reward you for your kindness to the Orphans. Do not -slack your hands towards them. Our bountiful master will richly reward -you. Go on steadily in the use of, but do not trust in ordinances. -You know what I mean. Be steady and bold, yet meek and catholic in -your conversation and practice; and if GOD hath influenced you by my -ministry, give him the glory, and for CHRIST’s sake pray for - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLVI. - - _To Mr. B――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B._, - -I Think of you often, indeed I do, I long to hear that complete -salvation is come to your soul. I say complete salvation, for my -dear friend knows that reformation is not conversion. O that you may -experience a life hid with CHRIST in GOD! Some who seemingly put their -hands to the plough, have already shamefully looked back; will Mr. -_B._ also go away? Methinks I hear him say, “Whether shall I go? JESUS -CHRIST alone hath the words of eternal life.” True, JESUS alone is the -way, the truth and the life; flee, flee to him, my dear friend; with -arms he stands ready to embrace, and will save you to the uttermost. -Remember, my friend, the vows of the LORD are upon you. These hands -reached out to you the sacred symbols of his precious body and blood. -These eyes saw you eat and drink of his bread and his wine. O do not -betray, but manfully stand up for the LORD JESUS. You was once bold -for satan, be now bold for your CHRIST. His love excites me to write -to, and pray for you. Your wife also I intreat the LORD to bless, -together with your children. My friends join me in hearty wishes for -your welfare. I am, dear Mr. _B――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLVII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D――――, at Edinburgh._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -IF I mistake not, Mr. _M._ informed me, that you was entered into the -ministry; I pray GOD to enable you to make full proof of it. O dear -Sir, how holy ought we to be, who are called to stand before the LORD. -――When I consider the greatness of the office and my own unworthiness, -I am sometimes quite abashed. This promise, “Lo I am with you always,” -is my daily support. Blessed be GOD, I find it fulfilled in my soul. -A great work is begun in _America_, at _Georgia_, _South-Carolina_, -_New-York_, _Philadelphia_, and _New-England_. GOD has confirmed the -word by spiritual miracles and signs. You will see what I have wrote -to dear Mr. _T――――_. Your assistance in respect to the Orphan-house -will be very acceptable. I am several hundreds of pounds in debt on -that account. The GOD whom I serve is able to discharge it. You have -heard of the liberality of the _New-England_ people; dear Mr. _D――――_ -GOD’s goodness astonishes me. What! can I think any thing too much -to do, or to suffer for so dear a Master? I was lately bound over -at _Charles-Town_ in _South-Carolina_, for libelling the clergy. The -_libel_, falsely so called, I shall soon send you after my arrival. -Thus opposition is coming on gradually: pray that the LORD may cover -me with all his armour. I am a weak defenceless creature in myself; -JESUS alone is my strength and my Redeemer. I write this on board, -that you may know, you are not forgotten; no, tho’ I never saw you in -the flesh, you are much beloved by, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer - in our dear LORD’s vineyard, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. T――――, at Edisto._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. T._, - -PROVIDENCE prevented my coming to see you at _Edisto_,――however, I -must not omit writing to you now. How is it with your heart? I hope -you are not _nimis uxorius_; take heed, my dear _B――――_, take heed. -Time is short. It remains that those who have wives, be as tho’ they -had none. Let nothing intercept, or interrupt your communion with the -bridegroom of the church. I hope you do not feel such damps of soul, -as you used to complain of. May the LORD of glory dispel every black -cloud, and cause you continually to rejoice in his salvation. You have -strong passions. The LORD JESUS is stronger: In his strength may you -subdue them, till you are meek as a lamb, and are become a very little -child. I write thus, because I pray for you most heartily.――Deal with -me in the same manner; and now, dear brother, farewel. The LORD be -with you. He is pleased to refresh my soul, and give me the prospect -of a short passage. I commend myself and affairs to the prayers of -your flock, and I earnestly recommend you to the GOD of all grace. -That he may bless you and give you an inheritance among all them that -are sanctified, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mr. _T.――――_, - - Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in the LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLIX. - - _To Mrs. B――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. B._, - -I Am much obliged to you many ways. The LORD reward you a -thousand-fold. Your prayers are heard. GOD is carrying us upon the -wings of the wind. The angel of the covenant accompanies us in the -way. The present season is a time of refreshing to my soul. I hope it -will be a profitable voyage. I think I see more into the wickedness -of my own heart, and the unsearchable riches of the LORD JESUS, who -hath redeemed me by his precious blood. I believe you can say so: Why -do you shake your head? Woman, why doubtest thou? Has not the LORD -visited your soul? Have you not heard him say in his word, applied by -his spirit, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love?” And do you -think GOD would tell you so, if it was not so? Away therefore with -all desponding fears; come boldly, with a full assurance of faith, and -draw water plentifully out of the wells of salvation. O that all were -comforted, as I am now comforted of GOD. I would not eat my spiritual -morsels alone. I hope, a letter from you will acquaint me, how good -the LORD has been to your soul. I have no greater joy, than to hear -that my christian friends walk in the truth. The LORD be with you. -Remember me to your father and sisters. That you all may be true -members of the houshold of faith, prays - - Your affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLX. - - _To Mr. B. and his wife at Bethesda._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Dear brother B――――_, - -WHEN I left _Charles-Town_, the LORD seemed to give me a full -assurance, that we should have a speedy passage.――We have hitherto -had scarce any contrary winds, and are now very near the Western -Islands. We had one storm the first week, but almost ever since have -been favoured with weather as well as wind. O that you would call the -family together, and praise the LORD for the mercies conferred on us -the unworthiest of the sons of men! I do not know that I have failed -praying for you one day, since I have been out. I long to hear what -the LORD hath done for your souls. What say you? Do you live in love? -Do you strive together with me in your prayers? Are any of the Orphan -Lambs bleating after their great Shepherd? Is your mouth opened? Is -your heart enlarged? Is your soul swallowed up in GOD? Does _Bethesda_ -answer its name? Is it, indeed, an house of mercy? These questions, I -hope to have answer’d in the affirmative. If you ask, how it is with -my soul? Blessed be GOD, I can reply, “Very well.” The LORD gives me -a feeling possession of himself. I have been enabled to compose _nine -discourses_ for the press. GOD willing, you shall hear from me often. -I write this, that I may be ready, if I should hear of any ship coming -your way immediately upon my arrival; receive it as a token of my love, -which GOD knows is unfeigned, from - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXI. - - _To Mr. J. B――――, Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -I Think I owe you a letter; I believe you love me in the bowels of -JESUS CHRIST. I hope our love is reciprocal. How can it be otherwise -with those, who have drank of the same spirit? I long for that happy -time, when we shall be swallowed up in the vision and full fruition of -the glorious Godhead. The bunch of grapes makes me long to eat of the -full clusters in the heavenly Canaan. The first-fruits make me pant -after the full harvest. Perhaps you may go and partake of it first, -and drink new wine before me in the kingdom of our Father; I hope I -shall not stay long after you, if not called before. My soul is sick -of love. Nothing can satisfy it, but the full sight and enjoyment of -CHRIST. He now visits my soul, and causes it mightily to rejoice in -his salvation. How lovingly he hath dealt with me in other respects, -letters sent to other friends can best inform you. Haste, read, hear, -and join with them in giving thanks and praying for - - Your affectionate friend and brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXII. - - _To Mrs. S――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. S――――_, - -MY soul is now in an heavenly frame, swallowed up in GOD, and melted -down by the love of my dear LORD JESUS. It is almost too big to -speak. I will give it vent by writing to you. Our master hath been -exceeding gracious, and has shewn me several tokens for good, which -I desired of him in secret prayer. Last night, I think I received as -full satisfaction as I could desire, in respect to _my marriage_. I -believe what I have done, is of GOD; tho’ I know not when my heart -was more disengaged from earthly thoughts than now. I only desire, -that the dear JESUS may be glorified in me, whether it be by life or -by death. I depend on your sending me a particular account of affairs -at _Charles-Town_. I have wrote to many; you will hear how my letters -are received. I shall be glad to hear how it is with your own soul. -I beseech you to live near to CHRIST, and to keep up a holy walk with -GOD. Be inward with GOD in your duties. Trust and hang on GOD, even -when he hides himself from you. He will be your guide unto death. -Hunger and thirst daily after the righteousness of CHRIST. Be content -with no degree of sanctification. Be always crying out, “LORD, let me -know more of myself and of thee; O let me receive grace for grace of -thy dear Son.” This, at present, is the full desire of my soul. I am -persuaded the LORD will satisfy it. GOD is love; we cannot think too -highly of him; we cannot expect too great things to be done by him. -His right hand, I believe, will bring mighty things to pass. I am -now entering on a scene of trials. The LORD hath sent me on the seas -to prepare me for them. Not that I depend on any stock of grace -already received, I would look to CHRIST continually. But whither am -I running? I forget myself. I almost fancy, I am talking with you. I -have only room to acquaint you, that dear _J―――― S――――_ sits by me, -and cordially salutes you, with - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S――――, Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -YOU have been very kind to me in many respects; but I have been -ungrateful to you, and infinitely more so to my gracious GOD. I have -not failed frequently to bemoan my unworthiness. Since I have been on -board, the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping, and now fills my -soul with all peace and joy in believing. I have been much assisted -in composing sermons for the press. At present my soul is closely -adverting to GOD, who, I believe, will bring me safe to glory. My -bodily strength is much renewed. In short, I am comforted on every -side. Dear Sir, praise the LORD in my behalf. O let us magnify his -name together. I hope you feel what it is to have fellowship with the -Father and the Son, and experience the influences of the Holy Ghost, -in delivering your blessed master’s message. I salute Mr. _P――――_ and -your whole church. My request is, “Brethren, pray and give thanks for -us.”――When you write to _New-England_, pray remember me to all friends -in the kindest manner. That country, and the people, lie very near my -heart. I hope to be favoured with a line from you ere I return from -_England_. Great perils there await me; but JESUS CHRIST will send his -angel, and roll away every stone of difficulty. In his strength alone -is my trust, and for his sake and in his name, I subscribe myself, -reverend and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in the LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXIV. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Bethesda._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 18, 1741._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -YESTERDAY we humbled ourselves before GOD, and by prayer and fasting -sought for a blessing, and direction in all our affairs. I wish I -had kept family fasts at _Savannah_. Suppose you had one monthly at -_Bethesda_? You will see, by dear Brother _B――――_’s letter, the frame -of my mind. Since that, I have been a little in the valley, but the -LORD is my comforter. I hope I grow in grace, and in the knowledge of -myself, and the LORD JESUS CHRIST. My heart is much united to Messrs. -_W――――s_, tho’ we differ in some particulars. May GOD make us of -one mind, as well as heart. I shall make all possible haste back, -and remit money to you as often as I can. Mr. _P――――_ tells me, his -brother is to send you upwards of a hundred pounds, and I suppose -other supplies will be sent from the _Northward_. I have also wrote -to _Charles-Town_. I am persuaded GOD will not let you want. I would -not have any thing left undone, that is necessary for the family’s -comfortable subsistence. The LORD is our Shepherd, therefore we -shall not lack. I shall long to hear how the blessed JESUS deals with -you. He is wonderfully gracious unto me, and hath made this voyage -profitable to my soul. O my friend, my friend, the LORD be with you. -My love is firm to you at the bottom, tho’ sometimes it hath ebbed and -flowed; in heaven it will not be so. On earth it is needful it should; -otherwise, how should we learn to cease from man? But I am a worm -and no man, and deserve to be the outcast of all people. My eyes are -now ready to gush out with water. O the sovereign love of CHRIST in -chusing me! My dear friend, let us study to be holy even as he is holy, -and walk even as he also walked. Let these be your daily questions, -“Am I more like CHRIST? Am I more meek and patient? Does my practice -correspond with my knowledge, and am I a light to enlighten and -enflame all that are around me?” I could say more, but I think to -write again when I get on shore. GOD bless you and yours. I suppose -you have heard that Mr. _P――――_ sails with - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXV. - - _To Mr. S―――― W――――, at Bristol._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741._ - -AND does my friend _W――――_ look again towards GOD? Never did the -Father with greater joy receive the returning prodigal, than I shall -embrace you in these unworthy arms, if you are alive to GOD. I trust -your late tepidity will now make you more fervent in spirit. I pray -GOD to give you a settlement in CHRIST, that you may be rooted and -grounded in love. My brother, the captain, gave me a particular -account of your soul. I hope he will yet appear for GOD; will you also -appear with him? Why should you strive to please a pleasure-taking -world? Why should you keep in league with the apparent enemies of GOD? -But no more of this. Let old things pass away, let all things become -new. I believe GOD suffered you to fall, because you thought more -highly of yourself than you ought to think. My love to all. I feel -a great union of soul with Mr. _W――――_; we differ in principles, but -I hope the LORD will make us of one mind. You must not be surprized, -if I publish an answer to Mr. _John W――――_’s sermon, entitled, _Free -Grace_. It is wrote in much love and meekness. Adieu for the present. -Give thanks on my behalf. The LORD hath dealt wonderously kind with, -dear Mr. _W――――_, - - Yours eternally in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXVI. - - _To Mr. T―――― S――――, in London._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Have kept your letter by me till now, that I might answer it on my -voyage. It speaks the language of a perplexed heart, and plainly shews -me, that satan loves to keep us in bondage. My dear Brother, I think -you have done wrong in holding your peace. I am sure you once felt -that freedom of soul, which you are a stranger to now. The way of duty -is the way of safety. Whatever you may say to the contrary, unless you -will give the lie to your own experiences, you must confess, that you -have indeed tasted of the good word of life. You should, therefore, -have went forwards, and not have turned back again, and thereby -plunged yourself into darkness; darkness that may be felt. Alas, you -have too eagerly embraced principles (I fear) contrary to the gospel -of CHRIST. You are aiming at a false voluntary humility, and are -returning back to the flesh pots of _Egypt_. I know my words will -have but little force with some, but I must deliver my soul. GOD was -once pleased to work upon you by my ministry, and therefore I am more -solicitous for your welfare. I know the advice you would give me is, -“_be still_.” I hope I am, so far as really to know the LORD; but yet -_I will strive_, yet will I walk in all the ordinances of GOD, and go -on from strength to strength till I come to appear before him in his -heavenly Zion. I write this, out of the fulness of my heart. Indeed I -love you, and the brethren; I am willing to be the servant of you all. -I am less than the least. However, I dare not embrace tenets that are -not agreeable to the form of sound words. Let me see you as soon as -may be after my arrival, and in the mean while accept of hearty love, -from - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXVII. - - _To Mrs. A. D._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741._ - _My dear Sister_, - -MY conscience almost reproaches me, that -I have not wrote to you often, nor full enough; accept this as an -acknowledgement of my fault. I am sorry for it. We are now about a -thousand miles off _England_. I hope this will provoke you to send me -a letter immediately after my arrival. I find _Luther_’s observation -to be true: “Times of reformation are times of confusion;” as yet the -churches in _America_ are quiet, but I expect a sifting time ere long. -My family in _Georgia_ was once sadly shaken, but now, blessed be GOD, -it is settled, and, I hope, established in the doctrines of grace. -Your name is precious among them. I wish you would send them a long -letter. Your book on _walking with GOD_ has been blessed to one Mr. -_B――――_, and others in _South-Carolina_. It hath also been serviceable -to a dear friend now with me, as also to myself. I cannot well tell -you what great things are doing abroad. I have a scene of sufferings -lying before me; I expect shortly to cry out with the spouse, “Look -not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me, -my mother’s children were angry with me.” My LORD’s command, now, I -believe, is, “Take the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines; -for our vines have tender grapes.”――Help me by your prayers. It is an -ease thus to unbosom one’s self to a friend, and an instance of my -confidence in you. O, my dear Sister, I am less than the least of all -saints, I am the chief of sinners, and yet JESUS loves me, and sheds -his love abroad in my heart abundantly by the Holy Ghost. I have been -much assisted in composing some gospel sermons, which I intend for the -press. I have sought the LORD by prayer and fasting, and he assures -me, that he will be with me. Whom then should I fear? Hitherto we -have had an extraordinary passage, praise the LORD. Herewith I send -you a letter from one of the children which GOD has given me: He -will rejoice to receive a line from you. If possible, I hope, tho’ -you are in the decline of life, to see you face to face before I -leave _England_. I should be glad to hear how you are as to worldly -circumstances; if I can help you in any degree, freely command - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXVIII. - - _To T―――― K――――, at London._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741._ - _My dear Brother K――――_, - -I Received your kind letter at _Savannah_, and though I hope to see -you face to face soon after you receive this, yet love to your dear -soul constrains me to write you an answer before I come on shore. - -I find, since my departure, the brethren have fallen into errors. -Dear Brother _K――――_ will not be offended, if I say, “He, I fear, is -one of them;” for his letter bewrayeth him. My dear Brother, you say, -“You have been striving a long, long while, but to very little purpose, -&c.” By this, I suppose, you have left off the means, and fallen -into _stillness_; expecting now, that JESUS CHRIST will so work upon -your heart, that you shall not feel the least stirring of indwelling -corruption in your soul; in short, that you shall be completely -perfect: This was pretty near my case about six years ago, and now -I see why GOD suffered me thus to be tempted, “that I might be more -capable of succouring my brethren, now they are tempted.” My dear -Brother, let us reason together. “You have been striving (you say) a -long while, but to very little purpose.” And what then? must you be -therefore still, and strive no more? GOD forbid: No, you are yet to -wait at the pool. “Constantly attend on ordinances;” and who knows but -by-and-by the loving Saviour may pass by and visit your soul. Have you -not, in some degree at least, felt his divine power in the use of the -means? Why should not that encourage you to expect more in the same -way? But you say, “I find all that is of self is sin.” And do you -expect ever to do any thing, or to offer up to GOD one sacrifice, -without a mixture of sin in it? If you do, indeed you are building -a _spiritual Babel_. My dear Brother, even our most holy thoughts -are tinctured with sin, and want the atonement of the Mediator; and -therefore, if you leave off striving, because “whatever is of self -is sin,” you must never attempt to do any duty whatsoever again. Your -stillness hath as much a mixture of self in it, as your striving, and -if you proceed in this manner, you must become a professed _Quietist_. -Six weeks did satan keep me under this delusion, but the LORD helped -me in the hour of extremity: May he also help my dear Brother _K――――_! -Another error you seem to be fallen into is, “that a man cannot be a -christian, at least that he is a very weak one, so long as he finds -corruption stirring in his heart.” If I was to urge the seventh to -the _Romans_, you would say, St. _Paul_ only speaks of a man under -first-awakenings, and not of a converted man; but my dear Brother, did -you ever know a man, that was not really converted, delight in the law -of GOD after the inner man? And yet such an one the Apostle speaks of -in the latter part of that chapter. Be not deceived, we are to be holy -as CHRIST is holy; we are to receive grace for grace; every grace that -is in the blessed JESUS, is to be transplanted into our hearts; we are -to be delivered from the power, but not from the indwelling and being -of sin in this life. _Hereafter_, we are to be presented blameless, -without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing. If you labour after -any other perfection here, you will labour in vain. St. _Paul_ had -attained no other, when he wrote to the _Philippians_, and to the -other churches: But my dear Brother _K――――_ seems to think, “I did -wrong in writing to Mr. _H――――_ to know his sentiments upon several -texts of scripture, and in sending for several of _Calvin_’s books.” -And why, my dear Brother, was this wrong? Why you say, “you think -it is contrary to St. _Paul_ in his Epistles, when he says, he would -not speak other men’s words;” but St. _Paul_ says no such thing: The -place you aim at, I believe, is _2 Cor._ x. 16. “And not to boast in -another man’s line, of things made ready to our hand.” My dear Brother, -examine the context, and you will find the Apostle means no more -than that he would not enter into other men’s labours, as ver. 15. -He would not preach where churches were already settled, but go where -the gospel had not been delivered. This, and this only, is the meaning -of the passage, which dear mistaken Mr. _K――――_ has wrongly quoted. -My dear Brother, did not St. _Paul_ bid _Timothy_ to give himself to -reading? What, if the Holy Spirit is to lead us into all truth, does -not the Holy Spirit make use of, and lead us by the means? Has he not -indited the scriptures? Has he not helped holy men to explain those -scriptures? And why may I not, in a due subordination to the Holy -Spirit, make use of those men’s writings? Has not my dear Brother -_K――――_ bought sermons? And why then does “He make use of other men’s -words?” O, my dear brother, you are in the wilderness; GOD bring you -safe out of it. - -I suppose, because the Dissenters oppose some of your new principles, -you term them enemies; but, my dear Brother, though there are many -Christless talkers, and hypocritical formalists among the Dissenters, -as no doubt there are some such in the purest church under heaven; yet -many of them hold and practice the truth as it is in JESUS. But I have -done. Count me not your enemy, because I tell you the truth. I expect -that great numbers will look shy on me, for thus opposing what I think -to be error. Thus the _Galatians_ treated St. _Paul_; but I must be -tried every way. I could add a thousand kind things, but I hope you -shortly will have a personal interview with - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXIX. - - _To Mrs. J―――― F――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend_, - -I Know you will rejoice at the receipt of this: You have abundant -reason; the LORD hath been wonderous kind. We are now flying on the -wings of the wind, and if it continues, we hope to be at _Cowes_ the -beginning of next week. Your kind presents were of great service to -my crazy body. The woman passenger has been serviceable in making -us bread; and in short, GOD has wonderfully ordered all things -for our great conveniency and comfort. O that my dear friends at -_Charles-Town_, may hereby be excited to thankfulness on our behalf. -I have frequently prayed for you both with my friends, and when in -secret before the LORD. Indeed you are seldom out of mind. Dear Mrs. -_F――――_, I believe GOD sent you to invite me to your house, and I -believe the LORD will plentifully reward both of you, for all your -works of faith and labours of love. I think henceforward I must call -you _Mary_, and your husband, I hope, will be truly stiled _James_ the -servant of the LORD. I trust you will both serve the LORD CHRIST, and -give yourselves up to the guidance of his blessed word and providences -day by day. It is a glorious privilege to be led by the spirit of GOD. -I think I have felt, and do feel, at this time, his sacred influences -upon my soul. My body is but weak, though better by much than when -I left _Charles-Town_; however, my soul hath confidence in GOD. The -archers will shoot sorely at me that I may fall; but GOD will cause -my bow to abide in strength, and my arms shall be strengthened by the -hands of the mighty GOD of _Jacob_. I need not ask for a continuance -of your prayers, nor you for mine. I hope we shall be always present -with each other in spirit, at the throne of grace. My dear friend, -adieu: All with me salute you. Write often to - - Your unworthy guest, but truly affectionate servant, - friend, and brother in the LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXX. - - _To Mrs. F――――, in Charles-Town._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741._ - -I Hope dear Mrs. _F――――_ will not be offended with these few lines; -they are written with a sincere desire to promote your welfare. I want -to see you entirely _dead to the world_, and alive to GOD. You have -been often convinced under the word; may it sink deep into your heart. -GOD, by the late fire, hath shewn you the vanity of all things here -below; henceforward set your affections on things above. You are old, -and at the head of a great family; you have sealed your promise to -lead a holy life, more than once, by receiving the symbols of the -blessed body and blood of CHRIST. - - _Henceforth let no profane delight - Divide your consecrated soul; - But give it CHRIST, who has the right, - As Lord and Master of the whole._ - -Be not ashamed to own you have vowed never to dance again: Dear Mrs. -_F――――_, fear not contempt. What is it? only a little breath. Rest -not in duties; rest not in outward partial reformation.――He that is -in CHRIST, is a new creature. That old things may pass away, and all -things become new in your heart, is the hearty prayer of, Madam, - - Your sincere friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――, in Boston._ - - _On board the Minerva, Feb. 26, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -ACCEPT a few lines from one, who desires feelingly to stile himself, -less than the least of all. I hope you received my packet from -_Charles-Town_: What happened to me there, was only an earnest of -future trials. GOD hath blessed the reading of the prophecy of the -prophet _Jeremiah_ to my soul; as also the history of _Joseph_, and -hath let me see more into the covenant of redemption between the -Father and the Son: I am more and more in love with the _good old -Puritans_; I am pleased at the thoughts of sitting down hereafter with -the venerable _Cotton_, _Norton_, _Elliot_, and that great cloud of -witnesses, which first crossed the Western ocean for the sake of the -gospel, and faith once delivered to the saints. At present, my soul -is so filled, that I can scarce proceed. Dear Sir, GOD is with me of -a truth; he now gives me a feeling possession of himself: I bless his -holy name for sending me to sea; it is profitable both for soul and -body. I find the Psalmist’s words to be true, “The secret of the LORD -is with them that fear him.” O that I may walk humbly with my GOD! The -language of my soul is this: - - _Correct me when I go astray, - And lead me in thy perfect way._ - -And now, dear Mr. _C――――_, I have in some measure unbosomed my heart. -What shall I say more? Pray for me both in public and private; give -thanks, as well as pray, especially for the mercies of this voyage. -Dear Sir, adieu till I come on shore, which I hope will be very -speedily, being now in soundings; then you shall hear again, GOD -willing, from - - Your truly affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXII. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――._ - - _London, March 25, 1741._ - _My dear Sir_, - -I Wrote to you immediately on my coming on shore. We arrived at -_Falmouth_ last _Wednesday_ was sevennight, and got here the _Sunday_ -following.――Blessed be GOD, we had a summer’s passage. Many of our -friends, I find, are sadly divided, and, as far as I am able to judge, -have been sadly misled. Congregations at _Moorfields_, and _Kennington -Common_, on _Sunday_, were as large as usual.――On the following week -days, quite contrary: Twenty thousand dwindled down to two or three -hundred. It has been a trying time with me. A large orphan family, -consisting of near a hundred, to be maintained, about four thousand -miles off, without the least fund, and in the dearest part of his -Majesty’s dominions; also, above a thousand pounds in debt for them, -and not worth twenty pounds in the world of my own, and threatened to -be arrested for three hundred and fifty pounds, drawn for in favour of -the Orphan house, by my late dear deceased friend and fellow-traveller -Mr. _S――――_. My Bookseller, who, I believe, has got some _hundreds_ -by me, being drawn away by the _M――――ns_, refuses to print for me; and -many, very many of my spiritual children, who, at my last departure -from _England_, would have plucked out their own eyes to have given -to me, are so prejudiced by the dear Messrs. _W._’s dressing up the -doctrine of Election in such horrible colours, that they will neither -hear, see, nor give me the least assistance: Yea, some of them send -threatening letters, that GOD will speedily destroy me. As for the -people of the world, they are so imbittered by my _injudicious_, -and _too severe expressions_ against Archbishop _Tillotson_, and the -Author of the old _Duty of Man_, that they fly from me as from a viper; -and what is most cutting of all, I am now constrained, on account of -our differing in principles, publicly to separate from my dear, dear -old friends Messrs. _J――――_ and _C―――― W――――y_, whom I still love as -my own soul: But, through infinite mercy, I am enabled to strengthen -myself in the LORD my GOD. I am cast down but not destroyed, perplexed -but not in despair. A few days ago, in reading _Beza’s Life of Calvin_, -these words were much pressed upon me, “_Calvin_ is turned out of -_Geneva_, but, behold a new church arises!”――JESUS, the ever loving, -altogether lovely JESUS, pities and comforts me. My friends are -erecting a place, which I have called a _Tabernacle_, for morning’s -exposition. I have not, nor can I as yet, make any collections; but -let us not fear.――Our heavenly Father, with whom the fatherless find -mercy, will yet provide; let us only seek first the kingdom of GOD, -and his righteousness, and all other necessary things shall be added -unto us. In about a fortnight, though I scarce know an oak from a -hickery, or one kind of land from another, I am subpœna’d to appear -before parliament, to give an account of the condition of the province -of _Georgia_, when I left it. This, I suppose, is occasioned by -the party, which hath been so inveterate against the honourable the -trustees, whom they accuse of misemploying the public monies. The -event, which undoubtedly will be in favour of the trust, you may know -hereafter. In the mean while, believe me to be - - Yours most affectionately, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――._ - - _London, March 25, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -HASTEN hither with all speed, and then we shall see what GOD intends -to do for and by us. It is a trying time now in the church.――The LORD -give us a due mixture of the lamb and lion. Some that have been led -astray, begin to recover. The LORD make way for his own truths. My -love to the _Colliers_, and all friends. Many, I suppose, will be shy. -I am become a monster even to several who were wrought upon by my -ministry; but it must needs be that offences should come: otherwise, -how should I learn to cease from man? Adieu; excuse brevity――Hasten, -and speak face to face with - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXIV. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _London, April 10, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend_, - -I Ordered Mr. _H――――_ to send you some sermons and accounts, some time -ago: I suppose he has done it. I have been at the Parliament-house; -the _Georgia_ affair was adjourned. The gentlemen seemed apprehensive -that my account of the colony, would have too much weight. It was -somewhat of a trial to be in the House. I then remembered what the -Apostle said, “We are become a spectacle to men and to angels.” My -appeal will come to nothing, I believe. I have waited upon the Speaker; -he received me kindly. I cannot yet determine when I shall see you. If -you fear, I hope you will pray for me. The LORD blesses my ministry. -Salute dear Mrs. _H――――_: I will write to her next; but you two are -one. The LORD be with you both. At present I am weak in body, and -therefore must beg leave to subscribe myself - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXV. - - _To Mr. S―――― M――――, at London._ - - _Bristol, April 27, 1741._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -ON _Tuesday, April 22d_, I left _London_, and preached on _Wednesday_ -and _Thursday_ morning at _Newbury_, to large congregations. On -_Friday_ evening I preached at _Bristol_, and have continued to -do so twice every day to great and affected auditories. I received -your kind letter, and thank you for it. I rejoice in the good news -from _New-England_. Last night, I rejoiced much in seeing a soul -wonderfully exult in GOD, just at the borders of death. Great -manifestations of the divine presence have attended my sermons. Praise -the LORD O my soul! I am glad to find Mr. _S――――_ goes on well. Pray -give my love to brother _G――――_. My body is sometimes weak, but my -soul rejoices in GOD my Saviour. I know not, whether I shall come -so soon as proposed to _London_. I find it necessary, through the -increase of awakened souls, to get a society-room built adjoining -to our new tabernacle. I pray GOD to fill it with his glory, and beg -leave to subscribe myself, dear Mr. _M――――_, Your affectionate friend, -brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXVI. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――._ - - _Bristol, April 28, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -BLESSED be GOD for knitting us together in love. May it continue, and -increase till consummated in eternity! The LORD JESUS direct you. It -is now a trying time with the church. Our LORD is now chiefly wounded -in the house of his friends. The LORD keep us both from a party -spirit on one hand, and from too much rashness and positiveness on the -other. I speak thus, because you seem offended that some affirm, “That -there is no such thing as dominion over indwelling sin, nor rest from -working for life wholly.” Now this is certainly true in one sense. We -shall never have such a dominion over indwelling sin, as entirely to -be delivered from the stirring of it; and the greatest saint cannot be -assured, but some time or other for his humiliation, or punishment for -unfaithfulness, GOD may permit it to break out into some actual breach -of his law, and in a gross way too. Let us not be high-minded, but -fear. It is equally true, that we shall not rest wholly from working -for life. For whilst there is any part of us unregenerate, that -part will be always leading us to the old covenant. _Luther_ often -complained of the propensity of his heart this way. If we know -ourselves, we shall find it to be so with us; but I suppose you have -been tinctured with the doctrine of _sinless perfection_. No wonder -therefore you write thus. May GOD give you a right judgment in all -things, and enable you rightly to divide the word of truth! As for -_assurance_, I cannot but think, all who are truly converted must -know that there was a time in which they closed with CHRIST: But then, -as so many have died only with an humble hope, and have been even -under doubts and fears, though they could not but be looked upon -as christians; I am less positive than once I was, lest haply I -should condemn some of GOD’s dear children. The farther we go in the -spiritual life, the more cool and rational shall we be, and yet more -truly zealous. I speak this by experience. Dear brother _H――――_ will -not be angry with me. I hope, and believe, you pray for me. The LORD -JESUS carries me on. Many have been convinced at _London_. I preach -here twice daily, to large congregations, with great power. The LORD, -I believe, will yet bring mighty things to pass. I am, dear _H――――_, - - Your most affectionate brother in our dear LORD JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXVII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S――――._ - - _Bristol, May 1, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Am glad to hear by brother _M――――_, that the LORD is with you. May -you increase with all the increase of GOD. The more we do, the more -we may do for the dear LORD JESUS. He strengthens me here mightily.――I -am enabled to speak here with great power, rather greater than when -at _London_. My congregations are as large as usual, and they go -refreshed away. This is the LORD’s doings; may all that is within us -praise his holy name! Exhort the dear _London_ people to pray for us. -The LORD be with you all. Dear Sir, pray for - - Your affectionate brother and unworthy fellow-labourer - in our LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXVIII. - - _To Mr. S――――, at Worcester._ - - _Gloucester, May 5, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -WITH this, I send you my answer to brother _Wesley_’s sermon, and my -account of the Orphan-house. I have seen your letter to Mr. _N――――_, -and thank you for espousing the cause of a poor despised minister of -JESUS CHRIST. I hope as I make advances in the spiritual life, I shall -show my zeal more and more tempered with true christian knowledge and -prudence. I would willingly have none of my wild fire mingled with -the sacred fire that comes down from GOD’s altar. I desire not only -to do things for GOD, but to do them in the best manner. I am a poor -unworthy sinner, and yet, (O sovereign grace!) the LORD works by me -day by day. At _Bristol_, error is in a great measure put a stop to. -The LORD manifested himself in the great congregation there, and doth -likewise here. Last night, we saw and felt his power. I have had the -pleasure of seeing dear Mr. _P――――_, and I long for that time when I -shall see you, Reverend Sir, and all the chosen of GOD in the kingdom -of heaven. But I desire to wait till my change shall come. Dear Sir, -be pleased to pray for me. I have prayed for you often. I am a weak -sinful worm. As such pray remember, Reverend Sir, - - Your affectionate though unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXIX. - - _To Mr. Wm. W――――, at Edinburgh._ - - _Bristol, May 16, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Received both your kind letters, and with this send you my hearty -thanks for them. I also thank you for your kind invitation of me to -_Scotland_. GOD only knows when I can come.――All I can say at present -is, I will come when the LORD permits. Sad tares have been sown here. -It will require some time to pluck them up. The doctrines of the -gospel are sadly run down, and most monstrous errors propagated. They -assert, “That the very in-being of sin must be taken out of us, or -otherwise we are not new creatures.” O dear Sir, exhort all to pray -for me, that I may be faithful to my LORD, and yet kept gentle in my -temper. At present, our dear LORD causes me to triumph in every place. -His gospel gets ground, and his power is manifested among us day by -day. The fields are white, every where ready unto harvest. Our LORD -I trust will gather his wheat into his heavenly garners. My kind -respects attend Mr. _M――――_ and Mr. _D――――_. Had I time I would write -a long letter to each. But I am interrupted. However, I am glad to -snatch a few moments to beg a continuance of your prayers for a poor -unworthy worm, and to assure you that I am, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXX. - - _To Mr. E―――― E――――, at Sterling._ - - _Bristol, May 16, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Owe you much love. Only want of time, prevents my writing to you -oftner. This morning I received a kind ♦letter from your brother -_Ralph_, who thinks it best for me wholly to join the associate -presbytery, if it should please GOD to send me into _Scotland_. This -I cannot altogether come into. I come only as an occasional preacher, -to preach the simple gospel to all that are willing to hear me, of -whatever denomination. It will be wrong in me to join in a reformation -as to church government, any further than I have light given me from -above. If I am quite neuter as to that in my preaching, I cannot -see how it can hinder or retard any design you may have on foot. My -business seems to be, to evangelize, to be a Presbyter at large. When -I shall be sent into your parts I know not. I write this, that there -may not be the least misunderstanding between us. I love and honour -the associate Presbytery in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. With this -I send them my due respects, and most humbly beg their prayers. But -let them not be offended, if in all things I cannot immediately fall -in with them. Let them leave me to GOD. Whatever light he is pleased -to give me, I hope I shall be faithful to it. Our dear and precious -master still carries me on. GOD enables me to fight my way through. -The gospel doctrines, I believe, will yet prevail. I feel a divine -power attending my ministrations. I preach twice daily, and am invited -to many places. I believe the LORD intends to keep me on this side the -water for some time. Blessed be GOD, all places are alike to me. O -dear Sir, pray for me.――I am a poor unworthy worm. I love you tenderly, -but am almost ashamed to subscribe myself - - Your brother in the best of bonds, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘lettter’ replaced with ‘letter’ - - - LETTER CCLXXXI. - - _To D―――― A――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, May 16, 1741._ - -I Am glad to receive a line once again from dear brother _A――――_. I -rejoice that GOD lets you see more and more into the corruptions of -your heart. The more perfect you are, the more will you see and bewail -your imperfections in thought, word, and deed; the more will you be -made to sing, “In the LORD alone, and not in myself, have I compleat -righteousness and strength.” The doctrine of electing love, is -precious to my soul. I am enabled to speak of it feelingly to others. -My soul is kept in peace and sweetness. Our LORD’s cause needs not -noise and rashness. I desire that none of my wild-fire may be mixed -with the pure fire of holy zeal coming from GOD’s altar. I think it my -duty to wait, to go on simply in preaching the everlasting gospel, and -I believe we shall yet see the salvation of GOD. Methinks, the cloud -begins to break off your mind; I pray GOD to keep you from extremes. -Brother _H――――_ is more and more enlightned; but withal, more and more -quickened every day. He finds there is no such thing as _sinless_ -perfection, and yet is pressing after holiness of heart and life -rather more than ever. May GOD make my dear brother _A――――_ thus -minded! For indeed I love him in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. We have -had frequently sweet communion with GOD, and one another. I should -have rejoiced to have conversed with you at _Bristol_. This is my -comfort, yet a little while and we shall converse in the kingdom of -heaven, for ever and ever. My soul is waiting for this salvation. I -know not when I shall go to _Axminster_. When I do, you shall have -timely notice. GOD blesses my ministry, wherever he sends me. I am -invited to fresh places daily. Dear Mr. _A――――_, I, even worthless I, -subscribe myself, - - Yours most affectionately in the loving JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXII. - - _To Mr. I―――― C――――._ - - _Bristol, May 18, 1741._ - _Dear Brother C――――_, - -I Received your letter this morning, and am just setting out for -_Wiltshire_. The LORD hath been much with us. Yesterday I preached -three times. At every sermon, a sweet melting was observed in the -congregation. Last night I gave your sister the sacrament; she is -recovering. I afterwards, administered the sacrament at Mr. _T――――_’s, -and had a love feast. JESUS was in the midst of us. I know not -but I may come towards _London_ next week. I wonder not at your -heaviness.――Before every increase of your work, you must expect some -trials. Humblings are necessary for your spirit, and mine. I return -my love to all. I must away. Brother _H――――_ rejoices in spirit, and -joins with me, who am, - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J._ - - _Bristol, May 23, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Bless GOD for making any thing of mine useful to your soul. May -the blessed JESUS breathe upon you day by day, and make you eminently -useful to the church of GOD. I think you write with a kind of -prophetic spirit. The LORD only knows how he will be pleased to -dispose of me. Great afflictions I am sure of having, and a sudden -death, blessed be GOD, will not be terrible. I know that my redeemer -liveth. I every day long to see him, that I may be free from the -remainder of sin, and enjoy him without interruption for evermore. I -desire patiently to wait, till my blessed change shall come. The LORD -hath been with me here. There is a great awakening in _Wiltshire_, -and the work is most wonderfully carried on in _New-England_. I hope -to send you a letter, shortly, that will rejoice your heart. I leave -_Bristol_, and go through _Wiltshire_ to _London_ next _Monday_.――I -then purpose going to _Staffordshire_, and then through _Wales_ -to _Scotland_. A wider door than ever is opened for preaching the -everlasting gospel. I have now only time to beg your prayers, and to -assure you that I am - - Your most affectionate though weak and unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXIV. - - _To Mr. I―――― R――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Bristol, May 23, 1741._ - _Dear I――――_, - -I Rejoice to find, that you see, feel, and bewail, the plague of your -heart. May the LORD shew it you more and more! It will excite your -love to the dear LORD JESUS more fervently.――I return my love to your -sister. I thought ere now she had been with JESUS. I believe, she -has the grace of GOD in truth, and therefore our LORD will make her -conqueror over all. I am glad to hear of the success of the gospel in -_Boston_. It is a gathering time there, but a winnowing time with us -here. All is ordered for the good of the church, by CHRIST JESUS: Let -us, my dear brother, keep close to him in this and every trying time. -We shall find but few, very few, true followers of the Lamb of GOD. -May you and I be in the happy number! GOD is pleased to give success -to the word preached. Though I am opposed much, JESUS is my strength. -The LORD will enable me to fight his battles. My love to _Peggy_, and -all that love JESUS. Forget not to pray for - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXV. - - _To Mr. T――――._ - - _Bristol, May 23, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Am glad to receive a letter from you. I was fearful, lest I had -done something to offend you. I thank you and the other gentlemen for -their kind invitation of me to _Scotland_. I believe it will be near -three months before I can see _Edinburgh_. On _Monday_ I set out for -_London_: then I purpose, GOD willing, to go into _Essex_, and then -to return through _Bristol_ and _Wales_ in my way to you. I intreat -all the brethren to pray for me, that I may come in the fulness of the -blessing of the gospel of CHRIST. I am a poor, weak, unworthy worm. -GOD hath been with me here, and in _Gloucestershire_. In _Wiltshire_ -there is a great awakening. Abroad in _New-England_ the work goes on -wonderfully. O dear Sir, never was such a weak wretch sent on such an -important errand. I have many trials of various kinds. JESUS supports -me; JESUS makes me more than conqueror. He is a dear and a tender -master. Dear Sir, help me to praise him. I will write to all the -gentlemen that wrote to me, if I can any way redeem time. In the mean -while, be pleased to remember me to them in the kindest manner, and -believe me to be - - Your affectionate though unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXVI. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Savannah._ - - _London, June 1, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Received a short letter from you, but it was dated in _January_ -last.――I have sent several to _Georgia_, and lately also a parcel of -things for the children. GOD appears much in our congregations. We -seldom or never have a dry meeting. As to outward things, I never was -more embarrassed; but my consolations are equivalent. Praise the LORD, -O my soul! I am apprehensive of no opposition from the government. I -have waited on the Speaker. He treated me kindly, and assured me that -there would be no persecution in this king’s reign: they know I am -loyal from principle, but I believe I shall yet be greatly humbled. -The story of _Joseph_ in the prison, and _David_ in his troubles -before he came to the throne, has been much and comfortably pressed -upon my soul. I hope you enjoy peace! May the LORD bless you and the -whole household. I am sometimes enabled to pray with great faith for -you all. The LORD will yet provide. I am to preach thrice to day. It -is now past five in the morning. I am going to the tabernacle lately -erected for a morning lecture. We have sweet meetings, blessed be GOD! -In the bowels of our common JESUS, I subscribe myself - - Yours eternally, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXVII. - - _To Mr. I. C――――, at Bristol._ - - _London, June 3, 1741._ - -I Have enjoyed the especial presence of GOD ever since I came to -_London_. I preach three times daily. The LORD is remarkably with me. -Congregations increase. I am going to have a society-room joined to -the tabernacle. The LORD is really on our side.――O let us be meek and -quiet! O let us wait, and we shall see the salvation of GOD. I preach -daily at _Deptford_. Our dear master helps me to preach and pray with -great power. Your ministry hath been blessed. Let us both give all the -glory to everlasting Love. Salute the dear brethren. Remember me most -kindly to all in _Wine-street_. - - Ever yours in the blessed JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCLXXXVIII. - - _To Mr. R―――― E――――._ - - _London, June 4, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Have now a little time to myself. I must improve it and answer your -kind letter. Blessed be GOD, for enabling me to write any thing, that -may be of service to his church, and of comfort to your soul. Glory -be to our dear and common LORD, his cause here succeeds. Truth gets -ground. The LORD strengthens me mightily. His power is manifested in -our congregations. Conversion work is going on apace among us. I am -not yet determined, about the exact time of coming to _Scotland_: -but I believe, I shall be with you in about three months. I can’t but -think the associate presbytery, are a little too hard upon me. If I -am neuter as to the ♦particular reformation of church government till -I have further light, it will be enough. I come simply to preach the -gospel, and to be received only as an occasional itinerant preacher -by all, and not to enter into any particular connection whatever. -The LORD, I hope, will order my goings in his ways. I desire to hear -frequently from you. I have need of your prayers. My trials are great, -my comforts far greater. I am a poor worm, and yet JESUS delights to -honour me. We are likely to have settled societies in several places. -JESUS rides on from conquering to conquer. I am, Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your unworthy fellow-labourer and affectionate brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘parcular’ replaced with ‘particular’ - - - LETTER CCLXXXIX. - - _London, June 6, 1741._ - _My Brother H―――― H――――_, - -I Do assure you, that my heart is as your heart. I am quite sick of -_Christless consenters_. They talk, and that is all. I (like you) am -heartily despised by most of them. I am resolved to open against their -luke-warmness, and worldly-mindedness. May GOD open my mouth wide when -I come to _Wales_. Outward enemies are now more quiet. Enemies within -the church, carnal professors, and self-righteous Pharisees, most try -us. Let us not fear, JESUS CHRIST will give us the victory over all. -GOD mightily strengthens me. Our congregations are very large and -solemn. I never had greater freedom in preaching. GOD enables me to -cast all my care upon him, with a full assurance that he careth for -me. You need not fear my believing any reports to your disadvantage. -I love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. I was not in the least -offended, when _B―――― H――――_ wrote me word that “you thought in some -things I did not act as a _little child_.” The more open you are with -me the better. If nature and pride rise in my heart, I will go to -JESUS, abhor myself, and pray for my dear reprovers. All that I can -say is, that I desire to be _a very little child_. All things are -possible with JESUS CHRIST. He is wonderfully kind to me. Truth, I -believe, will prevail. I want to see you face to face. Satan does not -love that CHRIST’s ministers should come together. I wish you could -come up immediately, and stay at _London_ whilst I am in the country: -or rather go and preach at _B――――l_, _Gloucester_, and _Wiltshire_, -for about a fortnight, and then come up to _London_. This, I believe, -will be best. About that time, GOD willing, I shall return from -_Essex_, and then we can consult what is best to be done for the -cause of our dear master. O JESUS is love! I am glad to hear brother -_Rowl――d_ is with you. Go on in the strength of our dear LORD, and -you shall see satan like lightning fall from heaven. Times are not yet -dark enough for the dawning of a thorough reformation. At even-tide -GOD speaks. My love to all that follow JESUS CHRIST with an unfeigned -simplicity. May the LORD hide your precious soul under the shadow of -his almighty wings! Cease not to pray for - - Yours eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXC. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D――――, at Dedham in Essex._ - - _London, June 6, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -MULTIPLICITY of business has prevented my answering your kind letter. -However, I have often borne you upon my heart before the LORD. Your -case, methinks, is somewhat like that man of GOD, _J. Bunyan_’s. He -was often so depressed with a sense of sin in the pulpit, that he has -been tempted to hold his peace. This has been my case also both in -public and in private. I find the best way is to press forward, and to -look up to JESUS CHRIST. He is faithful to his promises. I write but -short, having but little time, and because I hope soon to see you in -_Essex_. I pray GOD to clear up your evidences, and give you no rest -till he fills you with a full assurance of faith. Our LORD rides on -triumphantly here. He enables me to go on from conquering to conquer. -I am a poor weak unworthy worm. As such, be pleased to remember, -Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer in the gospel, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCI. - - _To Mrs. R――――._ - - _London, June 6, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. R._, - -I Have been much hindred in answering your letter. Perhaps you have -expected too much comfort from man. That comfort is alone lasting, -which comes from GOD. I know not your experiences, and therefore -cannot so well judge of your case: however, I would have you press -forward, and labour after a full assurance of faith. Judge not -yourself by others joys and comforts. Look not too much upon the -happiness you think others may enjoy. This may lead you to repine -and murmur against GOD. Look to yourself, and to CHRIST. Remember, -you deserve nothing, and therefore he does you no wrong. Remember -also, that he is full of love, and therefore in his own due time will -manifest himself to your soul. That you may patiently tarry the LORD’s -leisure, and be blessed with abundance of peace, is the hearty prayer -of, dear Mrs. _R――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCII. - - _To Mr. K――――._ - - _London, June 8, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Like your last letter best. There is one thing you still lack, “to -be convinced of unbelief.” By faith, and not by works, are you to be -justified in the sight of GOD. Make use of the means. You must take -care that you do not rest in them. You must not think any thing you -can do, will in the least recommend you to the favour of GOD; and yet -you must strive, as if you were to be saved by your striving. The only -cause of our acceptance with GOD lies at the feet of sovereign mercy, -through CHRIST. Entreat the LORD to give you faith, and who knows -but he may have mercy upon you. Remember you are a poor sinner, and -deserve nothing. That GOD may reveal his dear Son in you, is the -hearty prayer of - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, at Kingswood._ - - _London, June 8, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -HOW sweetly does providence order all -things for us! Just before yours came, I was resolved to send you -20 _l._ to begin the society-room at -_Kingswood_. Mrs. _C――――_ gives it, and I -believe will make it up fifty. This gentlewoman hath been made happily -instrumental in relieving me out of my late distress. You know how I -was threatened to be arrested, soon after my arrival, for above three -hundred pounds, due on account of the Orphan-house in _Georgia_, and I -do not know but a writ was actually taken out. This drove me to my -knees. GOD gave me to wrestle, with strong -cryings and many tears, both before and after I went to rest――I could -plead with him that it was not for myself but his poor. The example of -_Professor Frank_ encouraged me to pray, tho’ I found he ventured only -week by week; but my situation in such a foreign climate constrained -me to run upon larger arrears.――GOD was pleased to give me an answer -of peace. Having as I thought a full assurance of immediate help -from some quarter or another, I went to sleep most comfortably. Early -the next morning a friend came to me to enquire, if I knew where a -gentlewoman of his acquaintance might put out three or four hundred -pounds. I replied, let her lend it to me, and in a few months, GOD -willing, she shall have it again.――Upon being acquainted with my -circumstances, she most chearfully sent me the sum I wanted, and thus -my enemies were disappointed of their hope. Praise the LORD, O my -soul!――But to return. I would have you lay the foundation immediately, -but take care of building too large or too handsome. Notwithstanding -my present embarrassments, who knows, but it may be in my power -to discharge my Orphan-house debt, and make collections here for -_Kingswood-school_ too? When I could get no assistance at all from my -old friends and spiritual (prejudiced) children, and was almost quite -pennyless, and left to sit alone like a sparrow upon the house-top, a -serious person, whom I never saw or ♦heard of, came the other day and -put a guinea into my hand. At receiving it, something as it were said -to me, “Cannot that GOD who sent this person to give thee this guinea, -make it up fifteen hundred?” As I told a friend immediately, to whom I -ran down, so I shall tell you; I doubt not but this will be the case. -My debt is all for GOD, and contracted in providing for the fatherless -and widow. As to the work here, though perhaps I may be blamed by some -for venturing so far, blessed be GOD, it goes on sweetly. All things -happen for the furtherance of the gospel. I have wrote brother _S――――_ -to let you have twenty pounds. - - Yours eternally in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘heared’ replaced with ‘heard’ - - - LETTER CCXCIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S――――, at Charles-Town._ - - _London, June 9, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Wrote you a few lines lately from _Bristol_. Since that, I have -had the pleasure of receiving a letter from you; for which I thank -you heartily. What Mr. _P――――_ brings with him, will inform you how -affairs stand here. Blessed be GOD, the word runs and is glorified. -The heat of the battle is now, I hope, pretty well over. GOD is -pleased to give me great power, and to strengthen me both in body -and soul. Our congregations are large and awful. We generally see and -feel much of the divine presence in the sanctuary. Many are pricked -to the heart. I have three truly experienced young men that joined -me. Affairs being somewhat settled here, I am going a long journey -of several months, thro’ several counties in _England_, _Wales_, -and _Scotland_. The door was never opened wider for my preaching the -everlasting gospel. I am glad to hear by Mrs. _S――――_, &c. of your -faithfulness to our common LORD.――O, dear Sir, what are we that we -are called out to speak in his great name! Let us never fear suffering -for owning his eternal truths.――The witnesses cannot be slain ’till -they have finished their testimony. At present here is no great fear -of opposition from the men in power; tho’ I hear the House of Lords -intend to give a hearing to my appeal. However it be, I am easy. -The LORD JESUS over-rules every thing for the good of his church. I -suppose I cannot come over to you ’till about next Spring. In the mean -while, tho’ absent in body, I am present with you in spirit, and am, -reverend and dear Sir, - - Your very affectionate, but unknown brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCV. - - _To Mr. J―――― P――――, in Georgia._ - - _London, June 9, 1741._ - _Dear brother P――――_, - -I Am sorry to hear you are still in darkness. Let the little light -you have, make you hold up your head, and think not of changing your -station without a proper call. We are apt to place our happiness -in places, and often think we do not please GOD, because we do not -please ourselves. But I find the fault is in the heart, not the place. -Wait, therefore, my dear brother, still patiently upon the LORD. Who -knows, but by and by JESUS CHRIST may lift up the light of his blessed -countenance upon your soul? Why should you doubt it? My dear brother, -CHRIST is love. He tries, but yet supports me; nay, makes me more than -conqueror thro’ his love. You will hear by other letters, how it goes -with the church in _England_. She is shaken, but it is only that she -may be the more settled. My love to your wife. I hope you find her -an help-meet for you. May the GOD of _Abraham_, _Isaac_ and _Jacob_, -bless, preserve, and keep you. May you both walk in the comforts of -the Holy Ghost, and be edified; and may GOD give you hearts to remember - - Your affectionate friend, and brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCVI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. F――――, at Southampton._ - - _London, June 13, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -JUST now I received your kind letter, and the generous benefaction of -you and your friends for the Orphan-house. It came very opportunely, -and strengthens my faith in the blessed JESUS. I find he will help -me by ways I know not. O, dear Sir, the love of GOD to such an -unworthy worm quite amazes me. Surely, if I did not stand up for -free distinguishing grace, the very stones would cry out against me. -Blessed be our glorious _Emmanuel_, the gospel runs and is glorified. -A wonderful power attends the word preached. Every day, I believe, -some or other are pricked to the heart. I have also glad tidings from -abroad. In _New-England_ there is an extraordinary work of GOD. I hope -the dear JESUS will set the whole world in a flame. Dear Sir, help me -with your prayers. The archers shoot sore at me that I may fall, but -the LORD is my helper. I hope my thanks will find acceptance with your -other friends, who joined in helping my poor Orphans. Good measure -pressed down and running over, may the LORD return into your bosoms. -Dear Sir, I pray GOD to make you a flaming fire, and fill you with a -holy burning zeal for promoting our dear Redeemer’s kingdom. I find -but few truly zealous. The love of too, too many is waxed cold. I -thank you, dear Sir, for encouraging me, and beg leave to subscribe -myself, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCVII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. H――――._ - - _London, June 13, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Received your kind letter. You do not know, and therefore think too -highly of me. “Less than the least of all,” shall be my motto still. -Providence is pleased to prevent my leaving _London_ on _Monday_ next. -I must necessarily defer my journey to _Hertfordshire_ and _Essex_, -till the _Monday_ following.――I approve of the circuit you have -fixed, but I chuse to preach at each place twice. Dear Sir, I most -heartily thank you for promising me your assistance in respect to the -orphans. I am persuaded our LORD will be well pleased. He gives me -great encouragement. We daily feel and see his presence in the great -congregation. I hear glorious news from abroad: _New-England_ is in a -holy flame. O that we at home, may be stirred up to spend ourselves, -and be spent, for the good of souls! Dear Sir, pray that such a mind -may be given to - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. S――――, at Worcester._ - - _London, June 13, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Thank you heartily for your last kind letter: As you are so aged and -infirm, I take it as an especial favour, that you are pleased to write -to me. You need make no apology, reverend Sir, for your plain dealing: -I love those best, who deal most sincerely with me. Whatever errors I -have been, or shall be guilty of in my ministry, I hope the LORD will -shew me, and give me grace to amend. This is the language of my heart; - - _Correct me when I go astray, - And lead me in the perfect way._ - -I also thank you, dear Sir, for your kind benefaction. My arrears -upon the Orphan-house are yet large; but I hope ere long the LORD -will enable me to pay them all. At present, I am kept from doubting. -Unworthy as I am, JESUS CHRIST is yet with me, and is pleased daily to -strengthen me both in soul and body. My ministry (for ever adored be -sovereign grace) is attended with a continual power. I am shortly -going a large circuit, perhaps as far as _Scotland_. Dear Sir, let -your prayers follow after me.――I am a poor, weak, unworthy worm; as -such be pleased to remember, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your obedient, though unworthy brother and servant - in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCXCIX. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, at Bristol._ - - _Hertford, July 1, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -THE LORD has been with me greatly, ever since I left _London_.――I have -been enabled to preach twice every day, and to ride several miles. -The congregations have been every where very large. GOD’s presence has -accompanied the word. People’s hearts have been enlarged. Within these -few days, we have collected near a hundred pounds for the poor orphans. -Numbers of souls, I believe, are under convictions. In some places we -have had near ten thousand hearers. Invitations are so pressing, that -I purpose going another circuit to _Bedford_, and to preach in the -counties round about for near a fortnight, and then return to _London_. -I hope the LORD is with you; I am somewhat weak in body, but sweet and -comfortable in my soul. Dear _J――――_ joins with me in love to you and -all. Pray for, - - Yours in the best bonds, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCC. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Savannah._ - - _Colchester, July 12, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Have not heard from you since you wrote last _January_. I have -been a circuit into _Hertfordshire_, _Essex_, _Bedfordshire_, -_Cambridgeshire_, and _Suffolk_. I have been enabled to preach twice -daily, and to ride several miles. Congregations have been surprisingly -large; the word is attended with power, and the alarm in the country -rather greater than ever. Contributions arise and increase. You are -all much upon my heart. GOD will yet provide for you. I write this -in great haste. GOD gives me much of his presence. I am more and more -convinced, that evangelizing is my proper business at present. GOD -gives me great access every where. The LORD be with you all, Amen and -Amen! To the best of my knowledge, I have neglected no opportunity of -writing. I am - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER [CCC.] - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at London._ - - _Coggeshall, July 13, 1741._ - -I Received your letter at _Bury_; but cannot think matters are quite -ripe, or you duly qualified for settling a church. GOD lets me see -more and more, that I must evangelize. I find you are for settling: -do as GOD shall direct, I am easy. I only wish you may find settled -persons to be your assistants. Without this, a church cannot be -rightly ordered. I have no freedom, but in going about to all -denominations. I cannot join with any one, so as to be fixed in any -particular place. Every one hath his proper gift. _Field-preaching_ is -my plan: In this I am carried as on eagles wings. GOD makes way for me -every where. The work of the LORD increases. I am comforted night and -day. O free grace to such an hell-deserving sinner! I pray GOD to give -you a right judgment in all things. I am, dear brother _H――――_, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCI. - - _To Mrs. D――――, at Gransden._ - - _London, July 17, 1741._ - _My dear Sister_, - -I Bless GOD that I saw you at _Gransden_. The LORD was with us, and -has been with me the remaining part of my journey. We shall yet see -greater things than these. Wonderful things from abroad. The inclosed -will shew you, how desirous my family is of corresponding with you. -Pray write to my dear little orphans, boys and girls. GOD, I hear, -hath been working powerfully upon their hearts. I would have you also -write to Mr. _J―――― B――――_, a converted planter; to Mrs. _B――――_, -his kinswoman, who has lately received the assurance of faith; to -Mr. _C――――_, a dear baptist minister; to Mrs. _S――――_, who is carried -on the wings of faith and love; and to my dear Mr. _H――――_, who is -Superintendant of the Orphan-house affairs. You will excuse this -freedom. I am willing your usefulness should be as extensive as may -be. May the LORD bless you ever, more and more. I expect to go to -_Scotland_ shortly. A ship will soon sail towards _Georgia_. Write -soon, dear Mrs. _D――――_, to - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCII. - - _To Mr. G―――― H――――, in Gloucester._ - - _London, July 18, 1741._ - _My dear Friend_, - -GOD has mightily blessed my journey in the country. Thousands, and -ten thousands, have flocked to hear the word. It was attended with -power, and near a hundred and eighty pounds were collected for the -Orphan-house. I know you will give thanks on my behalf. On _Thursday_ -morning, GOD willing, I hope to embark for _Scotland_: I am persuaded -the LORD calls me thither. Invitations, both from the _Seceders_, and -others that do not secede from the _Kirk_, are very strong. I should -be glad of a line next post. It is now near eleven at night. I hope my -friends will accept my thanks for their kind benefactions to the dear -orphans, and with their prayers follow, dear Mr. _H――――_, - - Ever yours in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCIII. - - _To Mr. B―――― S――――._ - - _Lewisham, July 23, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -THOUGH I have but little time, yet I must redeem a little to answer -your kind letter. GOD is doing great things, both at home and abroad. -The inclosed will in some measure inform you. Every day our LORD -appears for us in the great congregations. Weak as I am in myself, the -LORD is my strength. O, dear Sir, I am a worm and no man; I deserve -to be the outcast of the people, and yet the LORD delights to honour -me. Free, free grace! I long to be above, that I may praise GOD as -I desire. In about two days I hope to embark for _Scotland_. I will -come and visit you when providence permits. In the mean while, I beg -that you will pray that the glorious JESUS would bless all my poor -endeavours to promote his glory! My love to all that love the dear -Emmanuel. In his great name, I subscribe myself - - Your affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCIV. - - _To Mr. G―――― H――――, at Gloucester._ - - _Lewisham, July 23, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend_, - -I Thought to have embarked this morning for _Scotland_, but am -likely to be detained a day or two. I must therefore send you a line. -Wonderful things is the LORD doing for me. In the country I meet with -surprising success. In _London_ I see such things that I never saw -in _England_ before. A mighty power almost continually accompanies -the word. The LORD JESUS is pleased to strengthen me very much in the -inner man. O, my dear friend, give thanks for, and pray that I may -walk humbly with my GOD. The LORD be with you and yours. I hope both -you and dear Mrs. _H――――_ do keep close to GOD. My love to all that -love the dear LORD JESUS. GOD willing, you shall have a line from -_Scotland_. Wonderful news is come from abroad, which will ere long -rejoice your heart, and cause you to give thanks in behalf of, my dear -Mr. _H――――_, - - Ever yours in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCV. - - _To Mr. T――――, at Colchester._ - - _Lewisham, July 23, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -PROVIDENCE detaining me one day more, I snatch a few moments to -answer your kind letter, and to return Mr. _A――――_ thanks for his kind -present. How good is the blessed JESUS to me the chief of sinners! -He takes care both of my body and soul. His power has attended me -lately, more than ever it did before in _England_. GOD’s right hand is -bringing mighty things to pass. I earnestly intreat our LORD, that you -may live above the world, and be dead to all things here below. Dear -Sir, there is nothing like a life of faith. It is a glorious thing to -be able to say, “Not I live, but CHRIST liveth in me.” Then, are we -christians indeed, when we come to live on the invisible realities of -another world. This, and this only, is true and undefiled religion. -May GOD make you a lively partaker thereof. I hope my kind respects -will find acceptance with Messrs. _V――――_, _D――――_, _J――――_, and all -friends. Fail not to pray for - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCVI. - - _To Mr. B――――._ - - _Greenwich, July 24, 1741._ - _My very dear B――――_, - -TO-MORROW, GOD willing, I embark for _Scotland_, and hope to redeem -time abroad to answer my dear lambs letters: They rejoiced me -exceedingly. What I have done with yours, the inclosed will shew. Pray -be particular in your accounts. Much good has been done by those sent -already. You cannot tell how many hearty prayers are put up for you -all, daily. May they enter into the ears of the LORD of _Sabaoth_! -The work is beginning afresh in _England_. The Holy Ghost descends in -a glorious manner, amidst the congregation. Weak, unworthy as I am, -JESUS CHRIST works in and by me. O sovereign free grace! I have sent -the letter to Mrs. _D――――_. I have lately seen her. Her conversation -is as weighty as her letters. You will receive more from her, I hope, -before it be long. I believe you are where GOD would have you to be. -I despair not of seeing your mouth opened remarkably for GOD. O that -the dear JESUS may bless you, and the whole houshold! I should rejoice -to see you, but GOD, I believe, will detain me here the Winter. -Mr. _P――――_’s brother is to pay for the use of the Orphan-house -seventy-five pounds. Shortly I hope to send you fresh supplies. In the -mean while I assure you all, that you are constantly upon my heart. -My head pains me; good night. The LORD be with you all. Expect to hear -again very speedily from, dear Brother _B――――_, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCVII. - - _To Mr. I―――― B――――, at South-Carolina._ - - _Greenwich, July 24, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -WITH much pleasure I received your kind letter. Blessed be GOD, even -the Father of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, who I trust hath begotten you, -and called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. What an -honour is it, that we should be counted worthy to suffer the least -degree of reproach for his great name sake? I am ashamed to think how -little I do, or suffer for him. O free grace! sovereign and electing -love! how sweet to the soul, who really feels the power of it! May we -walk worthy of that holy vocation wherewith we are called! I hear your -brother is dead; happy soul! you and I shall go and see him by and by. -I thank you heartily for your kindness to the dear orphans. I am sure -GOD will amply repay you. The LORD be with you and yours. I must away -to the ship bound for _Scotland_. I will answer dear Mrs. _B――――_’s -letter, when I get on board. Adieu. O pray for - - Ever yours in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCVIII. - - _To Mr. I―――― F――――, at Charles-Town._ - - _Greenwich, July 24, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. F――――_, - -I Rejoice to hear the LORD is carrying on a good work in your soul. -I hope you will not think all is done, because you have been baptized -and received into full communion. I know too too many that “make -a CHRIST of their adult baptism,” and rest in that, instead of the -righteousness of the blessed JESUS. GOD forbid that you should so -learn CHRIST. O my dear friend, seek after a settlement in our dear -LORD, so that you may experience that life which is hid with CHRIST in -GOD. _Dear Mrs. F――――_, I thank you heartily for your kind letter. It -rejoices my soul to hear, that you and Mr. _F――――_ are going on hand -in hand to heaven. This is the sacred end of marriage; to be helpers -of each other in the great things of GOD. I am not yet entered into -that state. I am looking up to CHRIST, and shall wait his direction. -The gospel runs, and is glorified. The work is beginning a fresh in -_England_. Never was my preaching attended with so great power on this -side the water. Our LORD pours his comforts into my soul, and rejoices -me with the glad news I hear from your parts. May you all increase and -multiply in every good word and work. My most tender love to all. As -fast as possibly I can, each shall hear from, my dear friends, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCIX. - - _To Mr. H――――, at Georgia._ - - _Greenwich, July 24, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -BEFORE the boat comes to take me down to the ship, I would write you -a line or two. I greatly rejoice to hear that you live in love. But I -shall not be surprised, if, after this remarkable work of the spirit, -you meet with some trials. But fear not: we are all in the Mediator’s -hands. I find all things work together for my good, and so I am sure -you will. My dear friends, I know you sympathize with me.――Indeed, I -also do with you. My dear, dear family, you are continually upon my -heart. I redeem a moment or two as often as I can to write to you. -GOD only knows how I love and long after you in the bowels of the -ever-blessed JESUS. O may you lean on his bosom, and may his banner -over you be love. Adieu! for the present. I must soon away to the ship. -I have ordered hats and shoes for the children, and intend sending -brother _H――――_’s order and other things, with some cash, very shortly. -But the arrears hang on me yet. My LORD bears my burden; may he bear -all yours for you! I am persuaded he will. With great tenderness I -subscribe myself, dear Mr. _H――――_, - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCX. - - _To Mrs. S――――, at Charles-Town._ - - _In a boat going to Gravesend, July 24, 1741._ - _Dear Mrs. S――――_, - -I Am now in a boat, in order to embark for _Scotland_. I have -the conveniency of writing upon a trunk, and therefore cannot be -easy without sending you a line. I rejoice to hear that you are -carried upon the wings of love. Methinks I see you sitting under the -Redeemer’s shadow with great delight, and exalting his free grace in -plucking you as a brand out of the fire. O when shall we go to heaven, -that we may praise GOD for what he hath done for our poor souls! The -LORD is better to me than ever. Conviction, and conversion, both in -town and country, are beginning again. The divine presence is much -manifested in our assemblies. Blessed be the LORD, who is also working -with you. The spiritual prosperity of the orphan family, rejoices my -heart. GOD will ere long, I believe, make a separation between the -precious and the vile. Poor Mr. _G――――_, Commissary _G――――d_, and -Chief Justice _W――――_, bitter, bitter, though unsuccessful persecutors, -what will become of you? O that GOD may grant them repentance unto -life! What reason have you and I, dear Mrs. _S――――_, to exalt rich -distinguishing grace! ’Tis that alone hath made the difference. I -believe I need not remind you to pray, dear Mrs. _S――――_, for - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXI. - - _To Serjeant B――――, at Gibraltar._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, bound from London to Leith, - July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -I Am glad to hear that you are yet alive, and what is more, I trust -you are alive to GOD. Perhaps I may never see you again on this side -eternity. O that we may approve ourselves good soldiers of JESUS -CHRIST! How bright will our crown be then, at that last great day! I -find there is nothing like being valiant for the truth. JESUS CHRIST -is a glorious captain. He makes me more than conqueror through his -love. I have seen great things, within these few months. I should -have answered you sooner, but could not get time till now: I am -embarked for _Scotland_. I hope you take particular care to beat down -self-righteousness, and exalt the LORD JESUS alone in your hearts. I -find, the only happiness is to lie down as a poor sinner at the feet -of the once crucified, but now exalted Lamb of GOD, who died for our -sins and rose again for our justification. I rejoice to hear, that -some even at _Gibraltar_ still dare to own a too too much neglected -Saviour. Blessed be GOD, the governor is so favourable to you. This -is a great motive to love and thankfulness. The work of GOD still goes -on in _England_, and other parts. O for that glorious period, when -the whole earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the LORD as the -waters cover the seas! That our dear LORD may every day reign as king -in all your souls, is the prayer of, dear Serjeant, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXII. - - _To Miss R――――._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Miss_, - -A Few hours ago I came on board. To shew that you are in my mind, I -employ some of my first leisure time in answering your letter. The -condition you are in now, ought not to make you think that JESUS -CHRIST has cast you off, and that it will be presumption in you to -believe on him. The LORD is now shewing you, that you are poor, and -miserable, and blind, and naked, and such only are the persons that -think they want his almighty aid. I fear you look too much into -yourself, and from thence are discouraged. Whereas you should look -directly to CHRIST, and come to him in all your blood. You will always -fly from him, as long as you count him your enemy. But do not think -so hardly of him; JESUS is the sinner’s friend. O how doth his bowels -yearn towards you! Are you made willing to be made whole? CHRIST -invites and commands you to come to him; venture then upon him. If you -never have believed yet, it is time for you to believe _now_. “LORD, -give me faith!” for faith is the free gift of GOD . What if your heart -be hard, JESUS can soften it. What if you have yet no marks of your -election? surely you dare not say, “You are not elected,” or that -CHRIST hath not died for you, even for you. It is, indeed, a bad -thing to have only notions in the head, and no solid experience in -the heart. But it is a good thing to be convinced of this. Blessed be -GOD, who hath given you to bewail it. Look upon this as a token for -good.――Trust not to means; when they are taken from you, CHRIST can and -will work without them. The LORD may bring you help in a way, and at a -time you know not of. Your extremity shall be GOD’s opportunity. If -the LORD vouchsafes to bless this letter in the least degree to your -comfort, it will much rejoice the heart of, dear Miss, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Georgia._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -WITH much pleasure I have again read over your kind letter. GOD is a -GOD hearing prayer. My dear brother _H――――_ is awakened out of sleep. -Help me men, help me angels, to praise GOD in his behalf! My dear -brother, I pray GOD you may never lie down again. CHRIST is now giving -you light; walk and rejoice in that light. Keep close, keep close, my -dear man, and let nothing steal away your poor heart from the blessed -JESUS. Give it all to him, give it to him, hard, earthly, sensual, -devilish, as it is. He will wash it in his precious blood. Do not tie -him down to any degree of conviction. So that he brings you home, let -him do it in that way he shall think best. What a loving Saviour have -you to deal with! You cannot conceive how kind he is, even _to me_ -every day. I feel and see his power more and more. He seems to be -beginning his work afresh in _England_, and it gladdens my heart to -hear he is among you at _Bethesda_. O do nothing to grieve the blessed -spirit! Let your conversation be such in all things, as becomes the -gospel of the blessed JESUS. Have the greatest regard for the little -lambs. Do nothing that may prove a stumbling block to their precious -souls. Warm yourself by talking to them. Be not one moment idle. -Redeem your precious time; for you know not when your LORD may come. -My brother, my heart is full of love to thee.――May you be a beloved -physician! Beloved of the LORD, beloved of the LORD’s people, and a -continual comfort to - - Your most unworthy, though truly affectionate brother, - and servant in the dear JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXIV. - - _To Mr. Wm. G――――._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _My dear Brother G――――_, - -YOUR kind letter I have just been reading over a second time. It gave -me comfort; but the high stile extorted a smile or two from me. I -believe you have been reading over Mrs. _D――――_’s letters. You wanted -to imitate her way of writing, but fail for want of her experience. -It is a good thing not to go out of our depth. Methinks I see you -look down and blush; but look up again immediately to JESUS CHRIST: -He knows whereof we are made, and remembers we are but dust. Indeed -I write to my dear man out of much love. Blessed be GOD, that all -things are carried on with such decency and order. I pray GOD that you -may so live, that all who come to see you may say, “Surely GOD is in -this place.” Your prayers in my behalf are heard. I am quickened, and -strengthened mightily both in soul and body: controversial points are -ended, and the LORD JESUS CHRIST triumphs gloriously. I find my heart -often drawn towards _Bethesda_. I hope I shall yet meet you again in -the flesh, and embrace you one by one in my unworthy arms. In the mean -time, I commit you to the bosom of JESUS. May you lean upon his breast, -and sit under his shadow with great delight! May you be truly simple, -truly childlike, and every way conformable to our great exemplar the -spotless Lamb. I long for that time, when we shall sit down at his -marriage supper: though I have the lowest place, it will suffice, dear -brother _G――――_, - - Your affectionate brother, friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXV. - - _To Mr. J―――― S――――, at Georgia._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear John_, - -YOUR case puts me in mind of that passage, where we are told that our -LORD looked upon _Peter_. Surely, he has looked upon and prayed for -you, otherwise how would Satan have sifted you? But see what comfort -another passage may afford you, “Go tell my brethren and _Peter_.” -Poor, weeping, penitent _Peter_ must in no wise be forgotten. “Go -tell them that I am risen.” Here are glad tidings of great joy -to a disconsolate soul. May GOD apply it to your’s in particular. -Dear _John_, may you learn from hence to stab your dear Saviour no -more. I wonder not that you are in darkness. GOD will surely visit -your offences with a rod, and your backslidings with some spiritual -scourge. That is enough to keep us from sinning, though we know that -his loving-kindness he will not utterly take from us, nor suffer his -truth to fail. How dearly did _David_ pay for his stolen sweets? What -anguish has your poor soul felt, since I left you. Blessed be GOD, -that he has awakened you out of sleep. O free grace! I rejoice, yea -and I will rejoice. That you may never provoke GOD to leave you to -yourself, is the earnest prayer of, dear _John_, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXVI. - - _To Rebekah B――――, an Orphan at the Orphan-house._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Bekky_, - -AND is the LORD still striving with you? O then admire his patience, -and give him your whole heart. I had no other end in bringing you to -_Bethesda_, but that you might be brought to JESUS. I hope you will -yet find it a house of mercy to your soul. Take heed of resting in -conviction. You know by experience how sadly it wears off. You may -well wonder, that GOD has not sent you to hell long ago. I pray GOD, -that his goodness may lead you to repentance, and that you may walk -before the LORD in all well-pleasing, so long as you live. What sweet -opportunities do you enjoy! How freely may you go into the woods, -and pour out your heart before the dear JESUS. How early was _Samuel_ -acquainted with the LORD, and why should not you be acquainted with -him? Unless you are, you can never be at peace. Come then, my dear -lamb, and wander no longer; return to the shepherd and bishop of your -soul. Behold, he shed his blood for you, and will carry you to heaven, -rejoicing over you to all eternity. Away to him then in all your blood, -just as you are; and when you are near to GOD, forget not - - Your affectionate friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXVII. - - _To Elizabeth G――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Betty_, - -I Am glad you begin to feel the hardness of your heart, and your -utter inability to pray. I pray GOD you may in all things see your -helplessness, that you may come as a poor helpless nothing to JESUS -CHRIST, and take him for your all in all. I wonder not that satan -endeavours to terrify your soul. You know how he tore the young child -in the Gospel, whilst he was coming to JESUS CHRIST. Your convictions -at present seem to arise from a fear of hell; but before you receive -this, I hope the LORD JESUS will have sealed your pardon, and have -said, “Be of good cheer, thy sins are forgiven thee.” O _Betty_, why -has GOD singled you out? Why was you brought to _Bethesda_? Away when -you read this, and bless GOD for it, and devote yourself again and -again to that LORD, who has bought you with his precious blood. Having -much forgiven you, love much. Lie down in the dust, and be continually -looking to the rock from whence you are hewn. To hear that you, and my -dear family, love the LORD JESUS in sincerity, will much rejoice the -heart of - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXVIII. - - _To Mary A――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Molly_, - -UPON reading your letter, I put up this prayer, “LORD lift thou up -the light of thy countenance upon her soul.” You once had joy. I found -it puffed you up. I pray GOD to humble you by your present darkness. -You may now see what a poor wretch you are, how proud, how earthly, -how sensual, how devilish; and yet, stupendous love! JESUS CHRIST will -still receive you. Your loving Saviour opens his arms, and invites -you to throw the whole of your load upon him. I am persuaded he will -receive you: go to him then, and confess that you have sinned. He will -receive you; for what says the scripture? “Look unto me, all ye ends -of the earth, and be ye saved.” Surely _Molly A――――_ is included here. -The dear JESUS is all love. He has brought you to a house of mercy. -Out of love, keep his commandments, and love all that are around you. -Be willing to be the servant of all, and from gratitude to GOD study -to be a comfort to - - Your sincere friend in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXIX. - - _To the Honourable J―――― B――――, Esq._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _Hon. Sir_, - -WITH much pleasure I received yours by the hands of your son, who -offered to do me any service that lay in his power. This, as well -as your other past favours, quite surprize, and ought to humble me; -for who am I, that I should be thus highly honoured? O sovereign -grace! O distinguishing love! If I did not stand up in defence of -that, the very stones would cry out against me. Indeed, honoured Sir, -your kindness makes me almost to blush, and the love of JESUS quite -confounds me. I am lost, I want to sink into nothing whenever I think -of CHRIST’s dying for me. I really think, I am the most ungrateful -sinner that ever was, and yet the Redeemer follows me with his mercies -every day. Unspeakable are the trials wherewith I have been visited -since my arrival. But out of all the LORD delivers me. I experience -daily much of his divine presence; a wider door than ever is opened -for preaching the everlasting gospel, and GOD seems to be beginning -his work again in _Old-England_: it adds to my joy, to hear what -the LORD is doing amongst you. Blessed, for ever blessed be GOD, for -causing such a stirring among the dry bones. I pray the glorious -Redeemer, to carry on the good work begun, and to make _New-England_ -the joy of the whole earth. I suppose you have heard, honoured Sir, -of the remarkable effusion of the spirit among the children of the -orphan-house. Surely, JESUS CHRIST is about to bring mighty things -to pass. Whilst the kings of the earth are enlarging their dominions, -I trust our LORD will usher in his.――I shall not be surprized, if -after this great commotion in _New-England_, I hear that some outward -troubles befal them. The removal of you, honoured Sir, from being -governor, I take to be no good sign. I hope this has no other effect -upon your own heart, than to make you more and more hunger and thirst -after that righteousness, which neither men nor devils shall ever be -able to take from you. GOD only knows, how often I have prayed, that -this affliction may be sanctified unto you. I think, honoured Sir, I -cannot forget you and your people. Both are dear, very dear to my soul. -I sometimes long to see _Boston_ again, that I may rejoice in what -great things the LORD has done; but various circumstances concur to -detain me on this side the ocean, all the next Winter. I am now in -my passage to _Scotland_. What the LORD is pleased to do there, your -honour may hear in my next. I rejoice, that I am a little retired -from the world, and have the opportunity, honoured Sir, of writing -to you. How sweet is retirement when CHRIST is present in the heart? -Having him, I find I possess all things. Happy they that can wrap -themselves in GOD. May you and yours be thus happy! This will enable -you, honoured Sir, to rejoice in tribulation, and give thanks for -every thing that does befal you. Tho’ the ship is moving, and I am -somewhat sick, I know not how to leave off. Indeed, I love and honour -you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. That you and yours may be rooted and -grounded in his love, and filled with all the fulness of GOD, is the -hearty prayer of, honoured Sir, - - Your most affectionate, obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXX. - - _To the Reverend Dr. C――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Had the pleasure of yours, and have taken the freedom to publish -part of it, because I thought our LORD’s cause might be promoted -thereby. Glory be to the ever blessed JESUS, for the great work -begun in your province. Glory be to his great name, for raising up -instruments to carry it on; especially for working so powerfully -among the sons of the prophets. A most promising omen this for dear -_New-England_. Reverend Sir, the searcher of hearts only knows, -how deeply the welfare of your people is impressed upon my soul. -I continually make mention of them in my poor prayers, both public -and private, and have not failed to give thanks in their behalf. You -seem a little offended, that I did not mention old Mr. _W――――s_. It -was, because by his conversation I could not find he came up to that -character which you gave him. Mr. _S――――_ I truly value, and lately -have had reason to think much better of him than formerly, when his -experiences to me seemed too superficial; but I am a poor, weak, -fallible worm, and therefore my judgment is of little worth. I rejoice -to hear that the ministers with you help forward the work of GOD. I -find no such enemies to the cross of CHRIST, as those who keep up the -form of religion, and are orthodox in their notions, but are ignorant -of an experimental acquaintance with JESUS. However, the work of GOD -is beginning afresh. I have free access every where, and have been -upon the full stretch preaching to large auditories twice a day, for -some time past. The LORD is pleased to strengthen me both in body and -soul. His presence fills the assemblies, and, I verily believe, we -shall yet see glorious days. I have sweet accounts from the Orphans. -I thank you, dear Sir, for your care concerning them. I have been in -great straits; but the dear JESUS helps me through them all. Help me, -dear Sir, help me to praise him. My tender love awaits both you and -your people. I am glad to hear, that my kind hostess is recovered. -May the LORD strengthen her mightily, and cause her to go down to -the grave in peace! I earnestly desire a continuance of your own and -people’s prayers in behalf of, reverend Sir, - - Your affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXI. - - _To John D――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _My dear child_, - -I Thank you for your letter: I neither forgot you nor my promise. O -that GOD may effectually work upon your heart betimes, for you cannot -be good too soon, or too good. The little orphans at _Georgia_ are -crying out, “What shall we do to be saved?” And I am glad to hear, -that this is the language of some little ones in _New-England_. If -you know any of them, pray give my love to them, and tell them, I pray -that JESUS CHRIST may be revealed in their dear hearts. How early was -JESUS CHRIST in the Temple, first hearing, and then asking questions? -How did he love the little children, how did he take them up in his -sacred arms and bless them; and when he was just ascending to the -highest heaven, how tenderly did he speak to _Peter_, and bid him -“feed his lambs.” Let all this encourage you to come unto him. He -will certainly receive you, tho’ you have been wicked; nay, he will -abundantly pardon you. And what comfort will you enjoy, when you know -your sins are forgiven you? You will then have a heaven upon earth. -In expectation of seeing you a christian indeed, and grown in grace, -I subscribe myself - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXII. - - _To the Honourable J―――― W――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -PRESUMING it would not be disagreeable to you, I have taken the -liberty to print part of the letter you was so kind as to send me. -Surely it will rejoice the hearts of thousands, to hear what good -things the LORD is doing in these parts. It has put much gladness -into my heart, and caused me to give many thanks in behalf of the -people of _New-England_. How good is our GOD! When things are a little -troublesome without, he sends his gospel to comfort his children -within. Surely JESUS CHRIST is about to set the world in a flame. -He is working powerfully at home; he is working powerfully abroad. -I trust he will continue working, ’till the earth be filled with -the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea. I hope you -will yet feel more of this light and life in your own heart, before -you go hence, and be comforted with the comforts wherewith I am daily -comforted of GOD. Dear Sir, JESUS is a precious Master. He, as it were, -dandles me upon his knees. He carries me in his arms, he fights all -my battles, and makes me more than conqueror thro’ his love. My work -is great, but my supports are greater. He assures me from day to day, -that he will never leave me nor forsake me. My infirmities often make -me blush, and yet JESUS passes them all by. Dear Sir, think often -on the love of CHRIST: think of his dying love; that must give you -comfort. I rejoice at this opportunity of writing to you. I thank you -for your kind caution. I pray GOD to teach me how to improve it. Help -me, dear Sir, with your prayers; and accept of these few lines from, -honoured Sir, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXIII. - - _To Mr. E―――― D――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. D――――_, - -I Am to be blamed for not sending you a line. I am an ungrateful -creature; ungrateful to my earthly friends, unspeakably more so to -the friend of all. Pardon me this once. GOD willing, you shall have no -reason to complain of me any more. If you remember, once in my sermon -I said, “O that _New-England_ was full of new creatures!” I hope the -LORD in some measure is going to answer that prayer.――It rejoices my -heart, to hear that the gospel runs so swiftly, and is so remarkably -glorified amongst you. This is the LORD’s doings, and it ought to be -marvellous in our eyes. Blessed are the eyes that see the things which -we see; blessed are the ears that hear the things which we hear, for -many righteous men have desired to see and hear them, and have not. I -rejoice also to hear, that there is like to be a church in your house. -O, dear Sir, take care that none of you rest, till you have got fast -hold of the blessed JESUS. My kind love to dear Mrs. _D――――_. May -CHRIST’s justifying blood be upon you and your children. I return -my love to all that are so kind as to remember me. I believe I shall -not see you this Winter. The work is very great, and goes on very -prosperous in _England_. However, you are all upon my heart, and the -more heartily you pray for me, the sooner shall I be restored unto -you. I hope I feel the benefit of your dear people’s prayers; for GOD -comforts and strengthens me daily, and carries me on from conquering -to conquer. On shore, I have scarce time to write a line; being now on -board, I take this opportunity of returning you my hearty thanks for -your kind letter, and of assuring you that I am, dear Mr. _D――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. R――――, at Boston_. - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741._ - _My dear Brother R――――_, - -HOW glad was I to receive a letter from your hands, having heard -nothing of, or from you particularly, since we parted. What great -things has the LORD shewn us since that time. Methinks I hear you -say, “and yet I can tell of greater things.” I believe we shall see -far greater yet before we die. The work is beginning afresh here. I -sometimes think _B―――― G――――_ must take a voyage over to _Old-England_. -Most of our _London_ ministers too much shun the cross, and do not -appear boldly for GOD.――Now the LORD hath worked so powerfully in your -college, I have less to say against your joining with Mr. _W――――_. I -am glad to hear you speak plainly and closely. What comfort will this -afford you in a dying hour? Go on, my dear brother, go on; venture -daily upon CHRIST, go out in his strength, and he will enable you to -do wonders. He is with me more and more. I have been sweetly carried -thro’ the heat and burden of every day’s labour. JESUS bears all my -burdens. JESUS enables me to cast all my cares upon him. O then let us -magnify his name together! I am now going to _Scotland_, knowing not -what will befal me. What GOD does, you may expect to hear shortly. -In the mean while, let us pray for and write to each other. As iron -sharpeneth iron, so doth the letters of a man his friend. Your last -I have printed: GOD’s glory called me to it. My dear brother, adieu! -Dear Brother _S――――_ sits by and salutes you. My kind love awaits -Mr. _W――――_, and all that love the LORD JESUS in sincerity. In hopes -of receiving another letter from you shortly, I subscribe myself, dear -Mr. _R._ - - Your very affectionate, tho’ very unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXV. - - _To the Students, &c. under convictions at the colleges - of Cambridge and New-haven,――in New-England and Connecticut._ - - _Dear Gentlemen_, - -WITH unspeakable pleasure have I heard, that there seems to be a -general concern among you about the things of GOD. It was no small -grief to me, that I was obliged to say of your college, that “your -light was become darkness;” yet are ye now become light in the LORD. -I heartily thank GOD, even the Father of our glorious Redeemer, for -sending dear Mr. _T――――_ among you. What great things may we not -now expect to see in _New-England_, since it has pleased GOD to work -so remarkably among the sons of the prophets? Now we may expect a -reformation indeed, since it is beginning at the house of GOD. A -dead ministry will always make a dead people. Whereas, if ministers -are warmed with the love of GOD themselves, they cannot but be -instruments of diffusing that love among others. This, this is the -best preparation for the work whereunto you are to be called. Learning -without piety, will only make you more capable of promoting the -kingdom of satan. Henceforward, therefore, I hope you will enter into -your studies not to get a parish, nor to be polite preachers, but to -be great saints. This, indeed, is the most compendious way to true -learning: for an understanding enlightened by the spirit of GOD, is -more susceptible of divine truths, and I am certain will prove most -useful to mankind. The more holy you are, the more will GOD delight -to honour you. He loves to make use of instruments, which are like -himself. I hope the _good old divinity_ will now be precious to your -souls, and you will think it an honour to tread in the steps of your -pious forefathers. They were acquainted with their own hearts.――They -knew what it was to be tempted themselves, and therefore from their -own experience knew how to succour others. O may you follow them, -as they followed CHRIST. Then great, very great will be your reward -in heaven. I am sure you can never serve a better Master than JESUS -CHRIST, or be engaged in a higher employ than in calling home souls -to him. I trust, dear gentlemen, you will not be offended at me for -sending you these few lines. I write out of the fulness of my heart. -I make mention of you always in my prayers. Forget me not in yours. I -am a poor weak worm. I am the chief of sinners, and yet, O stupendous -love! the LORD’s work still prospers in my unworthy hands.――Fail not -to give thanks, as well as to pray for - - Your affectionate brother and servant, in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXVI. - - _To Mr. D――――, at Boston._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -YOUR’s as well as other letters, which I received from _Boston_, -gave me no small satisfaction. Now, now I live, if poor sinners -are flocking for life to the dear LORD JESUS. How may we suppose -the angels to be rejoicing over _Boston_, and other places in -_New-England_! How glad are they to see the lectures frequented as in -times of old, and the spirit of your good forefathers reviving among -you! Sure it must be delightful to see black and white, young men and -maidens, old men and children, praising the name of the LORD. Blessed -be GOD, who in this great awakening hath not passed by your house. -Fear not, dear Sir: Who knows but the blessed JESUS may yet visit you -with the light of his blessed countenance? I rejoice to hear he has -been gracious to your wife and daughter. I pray GOD, you may be all -built up in our most holy faith, and go on from strength to strength, -till you come to appear before the LORD CHRIST in glory. I thank -GOD, who hath heard prayer on my behalf. I am strengthened daily both -in body and soul, and have reason to think my ministry is blessed -more and more. Let GOD’s goodness to me, encourage you to expect -great things from our LORD. He is able and willing to do for us more -abundantly than we can ask or think. That you and your dear family may -daily drink of his divine pleasures, as out of a river, is the earnest -prayer of, dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXVII. - - _To John R――――, an Orphan, at the Orphan-house._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear John_, - -I Remember you once wanted to go away from _Bethesda_. Adore the free -grace and mercy of that GOD, who has kept you there. I trust, it will -prove the saving of your precious and immortal soul. To see oneself -lost and condemned by nature, is the first step to conversion. I hope -before this time you have found yourself saved by grace: for “by grace -alone you are to be saved, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift -of GOD.” The LORD JESUS hath indeed been knocking at the door of your -heart. I trust, now he will break the door open, and give himself -admission. Dear _John_, you may well wonder, that the LORD hath not -sent you to hell. I trust, that you feel you deserve it. O that GOD -may pluck you as a brand out of the burning. This was my only view -in bringing you to _Bethesda_. This is the only desire of the dear -friends who have the rule over you; they watch for your soul, &c. The -devil (as you observe) watches to destroy it: and, therefore, my dear -boy, away to JESUS CHRIST. He can take away the heart of stone: he can -give you an heart of flesh. All things are possible with Him. That GOD -may give you grace to take the kingdom of heaven with a holy violence, -is the hearty prayer of, dear _John_, - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXVIII. - - _To James M――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear James_, - -I Am glad to hear by dear brother _B――――_’s letters, that your soul -has received comfort. I am comforted at the news. May GOD increase it -daily, ’till your joy be full. I must think GOD loves you, and that he -has begun a good work in your soul. I hope to find at my return that -it is carried on, and that you have been pressing forward towards the -mark for the prize of your high calling in CHRIST JESUS your saviour. -Dear _James_, I do not forget you. I hope you never will forget the -love of CHRIST, who died and hath given himself for you. Does not -the very thought of this make you even to weep? Do you not want some -private place where to vent your heart? Away then, I will detain -you no longer. Retire into the woods. Go look to him whom you have -pierced, and with a godly sorrow mourn for your sins, as a woman for -her first-born. At the same time, forget not to sigh out a prayer in -behalf of, dear _James_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXIX. - - _To Thomas Webb, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear Thomas_, - -HOW inconsistent is the devil! How artfully does he strive to keep -poor souls from CHRIST! Sometimes he labours to drive poor souls -into despair; sometimes to presumption. These are the two rocks, -against which he would fain have poor souls to make shipwreck of faith -and a good conscience. I pray GOD to enable you to steer a middle -course.――May you see your misery, and at the same time see your remedy -in the cross and wounds of JESUS CHRIST. He calls to all weary heavy -laden souls; consequently he calls you. Your coming to him, will be -a proof of your election. The devils know nothing of GOD’s decrees. -If ever he should tempt you so again, say, “If I do perish, I will -perish at the feet of CHRIST.” He is willing to save, to save to -the uttermost. He sees, he feels your anguish. He longs to rejoice -over you. Venture therefore upon him. _Thomas_, be not faithless, but -believing. CHRIST shall yet shew you his hands and his feet. He is -the same now, as he was yesterday, full of love and condescension to -self-condemned sinners. That you may experience the full power and -efficacy of the Redeemer’s blood, is the ardent prayer of, dear -_Thomas_, - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXX. - - _To William B――――._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - -I Thought your father had sent for you from _Bethesda_; but I hope -your heavenly Father has kept you there to bring you home to himself. -Your deadness has often grieved me. O that I may have reason to sing, -at my return, “_Billy B――――_ was dead, but is alive again; he was lost, -but is found.” You do well to pray to GOD, to search your heart, and -to try your reins; for otherwise your treacherous heart will deceive -you. I would not have you forget what the LORD is doing for you, for -ten thousand worlds. O defer not repentance to a death-bed. It will -be hard to strive with principalities and powers, when you can scarce -turn in your bed. A man, at that time, can hardly bear up under -his bodily infirmities; but a wounded spirit who can bear? Reject, -therefore, such a horrid temptation, with the utmost abhorrence. Be a -worker together with GOD; and now GOD is working in you to will and to -do, see that you work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. -Do not stab your Saviour any more. Dear _Billy_, think on his bitter -agony and bloody sweat, and fly to him, as a Redeemer ready and -willing to receive you. That you may be happy in him here, and with -him hereafter, is the hearty prayer of - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXI. - - _To R―――― W――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear Richard_, - -THE contents of your letter pleased me. I have sometimes thought, -if GOD did not convert _Richard W――――_, he would be one of the most -unhappy boys in the world. You have _head-knowledge_; and unless you -are made to see the sinfulness of your heart, it will much increase -your condemnation. Blessed be GOD, who yet hath patience with you, and -seems to be striving with your soul. I do not wonder that the devil -tells you, “it is time to repent when you are a man.” You may well say, -it is the devil that tells you so: Such a suggestion cannot come from -GOD. Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation! -JESUS will even now accept you, vile as you are, and ungrateful as -you have been: if you feel your misery, and fly to him for succour, he -will accept you. Every conviction cries, “Come, _Richard_, come to me, -that thou mayest have rest.” Let me advise you, as old _Eli_ advised -young _Samuel_: say, “Speak, LORD, for thy servant heareth.” - - I am your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXII. - - _To John F――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear John_, - -I Willingly fulfil your request, and sit down to write you a line or -two. I am glad you begin to see the wickedness of your own heart. You -cannot conceive what a mystery of iniquity is hid therein. The more -you see it, the more you will find the want of a saviour, and adore -GOD for giving his dear Son to die for sinners. There was once a young -man, named _John_, who leaned on the Saviour’s bosom, and was his -particular favourite. What if you should be thus highly honoured. -Would it not be an amazing instance of love and condescension? And -what doth the Saviour do less, for all that feel themselves poor, lost, -undone sinners? Nay, does he not do for them infinitely more? Yes, he -does. Come to him, therefore, by faith, and he shall embrace you in -the arms of his mercy, clothe you with his righteousness, sanctify -you by his spirit, guide you by his counsel, and after death receive -you up into glory. Look up, then, and never rest till you have it. -Conviction is not conversion. But you know who has promised not to -quench the smoaking flax, or break the bruised reed. That this promise -may be fulfilled in your soul, is the hearty prayer of - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXIII. - - _To L―――― M――――, an Orphan._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741._ - _Dear L―――― M――――_, - -AND are little boys and girls, at this and that corner of the wood, -crying unto the LORD? I hope you, dear _L――――_, are always among them; -and may the LORD hear your prayers, when you cry unto him! Surely -he will, if you feel yourselves poor sinners. Never did JESUS reject -an humble suppliant. “Suffer (says he) little children to come unto -me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Dear -_L――――_, take all possible care to cherish your convictions. GOD has -spoken once, yea twice to you, in an extraordinary manner. You are -one of the oldest; you ought to go before the rest, and to encourage -them to follow the ever-blessed JESUS. Satan will, no doubt, be very -busy; and therefore you ought to be busy also. You fight under a good -captain, even JESUS CHRIST, who will tread all enemies under your -feet. My dear child, redeem your precious time. Fight the good fight -of faith; and when you are wrestling with GOD, fail not to pray for - - Your sincere friend, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXIV. - - _To Mr. Thomas J――――, at Savannah._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 29, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Thank you for your continued kindness to my dear family. The GOD -whom I serve, will richly reward you. I am more and more convinced, -that the Orphan-house is of GOD. He will uphold it with his mighty -arm. Dear Sir, there is nothing like a life of faith. It is more and -more pleasant to me every day. I pray GOD, you may experience it every -moment, and be enabled entirely to overcome the world. My letters, -to my dear family, will inform you, how the LORD hath been pleased to -deal with me. Blessed be his name, he hath delivered, he does, he will -yet deliver. My soul has been among lions. JESUS hath been my helper. -I am very comfortable within, and experience more of the divine -presence in preaching, I think, than ever I did before in _England_. -I suppose I shall not embark for _America_ till Spring. Whatever good -offices you are pleased to do for my family, shall be then fully -acknowledged by, dear Sir, - - Your obliged friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXV. - - _To Mr. L――――, at Bristol._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 29, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. L――――_, - -WE are now within thirty miles of our desired haven. We have had -a pleasant passage. Before I go ashore, I would fain answer your -kind letter. Fear not for _Bristol_. No weapon formed against _Zion_ -shall prosper. Let us wait patiently, and we shall certainly see the -salvation of GOD. The LORD is beginning his work afresh. I suppose -brother _C――――_ has told you something of it. I never felt greater -power in _England_. I have had GOD’s continued presence during the -passage. GOD has given me sweet sleep at night, and a good appetite -to my food by day. Faithful is he who hath promised, that those who -wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength. I speak thus freely -to you, because I know you will be thankful on my behalf. I hope both -you and your dear wife, are making daily advances in the divine life. -Whilst others are disputing, let us be growing. This will be the best -way to convince those, who you find will not be convinced any other -way. Adieu! The LORD be with you. May your soul breathe nothing but -gentleness and love! - - I am, dear Sir, Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXVI. - - _To Mr. H――――, at the Orphan-house._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, July 30, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Have been five days on board, and am now just at our desired haven. -GOD’s presence has sweetened the passage, and I have had freedom to -write many letters besides those sent to _Bethesda_. If you, and dear -brother _B――――_, think proper, the little ones may be called, and the -letters read before you. A word of exhortation, and a short prayer, -may not be unseasonable. I thank you all for the tender care you take -of the dear lambs. You serve a master, who will richly reward all -your pains. I hope there will come a time, when I shall embrace and -weep over you all with tears of love! At present, I feel myself a -poor sinner, and stand amazed at GOD’s goodness and patience extended -towards me. I am less than the least of his mercies. You may expect -to hear from me again shortly. O do not forget to pray for me. My dear -friends, for the present, adieu! The LORD be with your spirit. - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXVII. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 1, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -THE LORD was very gracious to me on board. He gave us a pleasant -passage. As you know that the Messrs. _Erskines_ gave me the first -invitation to _Scotland_, and hath been praying for me in the most -public, explicit, I could almost say extravagant manner, for near two -years last past, I was determined to give them the first offer of my -poor ministrations. Accordingly, I went yesterday to _Dumfermling_, -where dear Mr. _R―――― E――――_ hath got a large and separate, or, as -it is commonly termed, seceding meeting-house. He received me very -lovingly. I preached to his and the town’s people.――A very thronged -assembly――After I had done prayer, and named my text, the rustling -made by opening the bibles all at once, quite surprized me: a scene, -I never was witness to before. Our conversation after sermon, in the -house, was such as became the gospel of CHRIST. They entertained me -with various accounts of the success of the _Seceders_ labours; and, -as a proof of GOD’s being with them, Mr. _R――――_’s son-in-law told -me, that, at one of their late occasions, a woman was so deeply -affected, that she was obliged to stop her mouth with an handkerchief -to keep herself from crying out. They urged a longer stay, in order -to converse more closely, and to set me right about church government, -and the solemn league and covenant. I informed them, that I had given -notice of preaching at _Edinburgh_ this evening; but, as they desired -it, I would in a few days return, and meet the associate presbytery in -Mr. _R――――_’s house. This was agreed on. Dear Mr. _E――――_ accompanied -me, and this evening I preached to many thousands, in a place called -_The Orphan-house Park_. The LORD was there. Immediately after sermon, -a large company, among whom were some of the nobility, came to salute -me. Amidst our conversation, came in a portly, well-looking Quaker, -nephew to Messrs. _E――――_, formerly a Baptist minister in the north -of _England_, who, taking me by the hand, said, “Friend _George_, I -am as thou art; I am for bringing all to the life and power of the -everliving GOD: and, therefore, if thou wilt not quarrel with me about -my hat, I will not quarrel with thee about thy gown.” In this respect, -I wish all, of every denomination, were thus minded. I find GOD has -blessed my works in these parts. I am most cordially received by many -that love the LORD JESUS. I have just been in company with a nobleman, -who, I believe, truly fears GOD; and also with a lady of fashion, that -discovers a christian spirit indeed. I already hear of great divisions. -But JESUS knows how to bring order out of confusion. I hope the LORD -is much with you, my dear brother. O may you be anointed more and more, -till you are filled with all the fulness of GOD. Be pleased to read -this to all in _Wine-street_; and remember me kindly to all that love -the glorious Redeemer. He is a dear, dear JESUS. Tho’ we die for, yet -let us not deny him in any wise. Pray that such a mind may be always -given to - - Your weak and unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. G. W――――, at Maxton._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 1, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -YOUR kind letter, like all other tokens of my precious Master’s love, -quite amazes me. I hear you are a good old soldier of JESUS CHRIST. O -that you had wrote to me sooner! I want the advice and exhortation of -those who have been in CHRIST before me. The LORD is pleased greatly -to bless me. His work seems to be beginning afresh in _England_. How -it goes on abroad, the papers sent with this will inform you. Help me, -dear Sir, help me with your prayers, that the LORD may bless my coming -here. I hope some have felt the divine presence in this evening’s -exercise. Thro’ grace I can say, I did, and do now. O that I could -be humble and thankful! O that my heart glowed with the love of GOD -and men! I would breathe nothing but love. I would love all that love -the LORD JESUS, of whatsoever denomination. May the LORD heal our -divisions, and grant that we may not thereby provoke him to send us -a common persecution to drive us together! O that we may stand in -a trying hour. Dear Sir, I shall be glad to see you at _Edinburgh_ -any day after _Wednesday_ next, and then we can settle when to come -into your parts. I am willing to preach the gospel to all. It is now -late, but I was willing to write, lest something should hinder me on -_Monday_. Dear Sir, good night. I commend you to GOD, thank you for -your prayers, and desire a continuance of them in behalf of - - Your affectionate younger brother, and fellow-labourer - in the Redeemer’s vineyard, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXXXIX. - - _To Mr. Thomas N――――, at New-York._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 8, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Have written you several letters; and I rejoice to hear that the -work of the LORD prospers in the hands of Messrs. _T――――s_, &c. am -glad they intend to meet in a synod by themselves. Their catholic -spirit will do good. The _associate presbytery_ here, are so confined, -that they will not so much as hear me preach, unless I only will join -with them. Mr. _Ralph E――――_, indeed, did hear me, and went up with -me into the pulpit of the _Cannon-gate_ church.――The people were ready -to shout for joy; but, I believe, it gave offence to his associates. -I met most of them, according to appointment, on _Wednesday_ last.――A -set of grave venerable men! They soon proposed to form themselves into -a presbytery, and were proceeding to chuse a moderator――I asked them -for what purpose? They answered, to discourse, and set me right, about -the matter of church-government, and the solemn league and covenant. -I replied, they might save themselves that trouble, for I had no -scruples about it; and that settling church-government, and preaching -about the solemn league and covenant, was not my plan; I then told -them something of my experience, and how I was led out into my present -way of acting. One in particular said, he was deeply affected; and the -dear Mr. _E――――_ desired they would have patience with me, for that -having been born and bred in _England_, and never studied the point, I -could not be supposed to be so perfectly acquainted with the nature of -their covenants. One, much warmer than the rest, immediately replied, -“that no indulgence was to be shown me; that _England_ had revolted -most with respect to church government; and that I, born and educated -there, could not but be acquainted with the matter now in debate.” -I told him, I had never yet made the solemn league and covenant the -object of my study, being too busy about matters, as I judged, of -greater importance. Several replied, that every pin of the tabernacle -was precious.――I said, that in every building there were outside and -inside workmen; that the latter, at present, was my province; that -if they thought themselves called to the former, they might proceed -in their own way, and I should proceed in mine. I then asked them -seriously, what they would have me to do; the answer was that I was -not desired to subscribe immediately to the solemn league and covenant; -but to preach only for them till I had further light. I asked, why -only for them? Mr. _Ralph E――――_ said, “they were the LORD’s people.” -I then asked, whether there were no other LORD’s people but themselves; -and supposing all others were the devil’s people, they certainly -had more need to be preached to, and therefore I was more and more -determined to go out into the highways and hedges; and that if the -Pope himself would lend me his pulpit, I would gladly proclaim the -righteousness of JESUS CHRIST therein. Soon after this, the company -broke up; and one of these, otherwise venerable men, immediately went -into the meeting-house, and preached upon these words, “Watchman, -what of the night? Watchman, what of the night? The watchman said, -The morning cometh, and also the night, if ye will enquire, enquire -ye; return, come.” I attended; but the good man so spent himself -in the former part of his sermon, in talking against prelacy, the -common-prayer book, the surplice, the rose in the hat, and such like -externals, that when he came to the latter part of his text, to invite -poor sinners to JESUS CHRIST, his breath was so gone, that he could -scarce be heard. What a pity that the last was not first, and the -first last! The consequence of all this was, an open breach. I retired, -I wept, I prayed, and after preaching in the fields, sat down and -dined with them, and then took a final leave. At table a gentlewoman -said, she had heard that I had told some people, that the associate -presbytery were building a _Babel_. I said, “Madam, it is quite true; -and I believe the _Babel_ will soon fall down about their ears:” -but enough of this. LORD, what is man, what the best of men? but men -at the best! I think I have now seen an end of all perfection. Our -brethren in _America_, blessed be GOD, have not so learned CHRIST. Be -pleased to inform them of this letter. I have not time to write now. -The LORD blesses my preaching here, and the work, I think, is begun -afresh in _London_. I preach to many thousands daily, and several have -applied to me already under convictions. I have been here about eight -days. You may expect to hear from me shortly again. The LORD be with -you. I love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST: He will bless you for -what you have done for the poor orphans. He comforts me on every side. -O free grace! Dear brother _S――――_ salutes you all. - - Ever yours in our common LORD, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXL. - - _To Mr. T―――― G――――, at London._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 8, 1741._ - -YOU will see, my dear brother, by the following, what GOD is still -doing for me. On _Sunday_ evening, I preached in a field near the -Orphan-house, to upwards of fifteen thousand people; and on _Monday_, -_Friday_, and _Saturday_ evening, to near as many. On _Tuesday_ I -preached in the _Cannongate_ church; on _Wednesday_ and _Thursday_ at -_Dumfermling_; and at my return on _Friday_ morning, at about eight -o’clock, I preached at a town called _Queens-Ferry_, seven miles -from _Edinburgh_. Every where the auditories were large, and very -attentive. Great power accompanied the word. Many have been brought -under convictions; and I have already received several invitations -to different places, which, GOD willing, I intend to comply with. At -present I can say no more, but desire you to pray for, and expect soon -to hear further from, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. W――――, at Dundee._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 10, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Just now had the pleasure of your letter; for which be pleased -to accept my hearty thanks. I trust your prayers will be heard -in my behalf. Glory be to free grace! many are here brought under -convictions. Unworthy as I am, the glorious _Emmanuel_ is pleased to -clothe his word with power. I am amazed at his loving-kindness, and -want heaven and earth to join with me in praising his holy Name. By -your son I have sent some papers, and shall gladly receive any from -you. I wish you would not trouble yourself or me in writing about the -corruptions of the Church of _England_. I believe there is no church -perfect under heaven; but, as GOD, by his providence, is pleased to -send me forth simply to preach the gospel to all, I think there is no -need of casting myself out. The divisions in _Scotland_ are affecting, -and undoubtedly they will occasion great searchings of heart. I pray -GOD to support us in a trying hour. I am not yet determined, when -I shall come your way. I can only promise, it shall be the first -opportunity, and that you shall be apprized of it some time before. -In the mean time, be pleased to bear me upon your heart. I am a weak -helpless worm. Your correspondence will always be agreeable to me. -That you may daily receive fresh anointings from above, is the hearty -prayer of, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate, tho’ younger brother - and servant in the Gospel, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. O――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 10, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Thank you for your kind and obliging letter.――I had not time to -answer it before. GOD willing, I hope to come into the northern parts. -The precise time I cannot yet tell. For ever adored be the LORD for -his free grace! the word is accompanied with great power. Several -apply to me daily under convictions. I find it best simply to preach -the pure gospel, and not to meddle at all with controversy. The -present divisions are a sore judgment to _Scotland_. This is my -comfort, JESUS is king. He will either heal, or bring good out of -them. I have been with several of the associate presbytery; but I see -no hopes of accommodation. O that the power of religion may revive! -Nothing but that can break down the partition wall of bigotry. Dear -Sir, forget not to pray for me. I see more and more that I am nothing, -and that JESUS is all in all. Did I know how, I would send you some -papers; but I hope ere long to have a personal interview; and in the -mean while, I beg leave to subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLIII. - - _To the Right Honourable the Lord R――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 11, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -THOUGH I am just going out, yet I cannot satisfy myself without -snatching a few moments to write to you. I hope this will find your -Lordship safe at your journey’s end, rejoicing in GOD for giving his -angels charge concerning you in the way. It will please your Lordship, -to inform you that the LORD of all Lords hath dealt most lovingly with -me, since your departure hence. His power hath been frequently made -known in the great congregation, and many come to me daily, crying -out, “What shall I do to be saved?” The work of the LORD also goes -on in _America_, and in _England_, so that I hope we shall see the -kingdom of GOD come with power. This is the full desire of my soul. -I am determined to seek after and know nothing else. For besides this, -all other things are but dung and dross. O my Lord, why should we that -are pilgrims, mind earthly things? Why should we that are soldiers, -entangle ourselves with the things of this life? Heavenly-mindedness -is the very life of a christian. It is all in all.――I pray the LORD -that your heart may be drawn more and more towards him, and be fill’d -with all his fulness. I could say more, but Mr. _G―――― W――――_ waits for -me. I am, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLIV. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――, in London._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 11, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother H――――_, - -THOUGH my eyes are dim, and my body calls for rest, yet I would fain -send you a line before I go. The LORD JESUS is getting himself into -many hearts. I scarce feel any restraint in preaching. Both in public -and private, the LORD clothes his word with power. Poor souls come to -me under deep convictions. Sweet letters are sent to me of the success -of my writings and sermons; and several pressing invitations to many -places. I hope GOD is beginning such a work here, as he begun, and is -now carrying on in _New-England_. Night and day JESUS fills me with -his love. My bodily strength is daily renewed. The LORD is pleased -to open my mouth wide; praise him for it. I have preached twice, and -talked, and walked much to day. My dear man, good-night. The LORD be -with you! - - Ever, ever yours, in the most adorable JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLV. - - _To the Most Honourable the M――――ss of L――――n._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 12, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -I Am surprized to find your Lordship so condescending as to write to -me. How bright does humility shine in great personages? It is this -renders GOD so amiable to his creatures. He is infinitely good, and -withal infinitely condescending. What an unparalleled instance was -that of his loving kindness, his giving his only begotten Son to die -for sinful man. How low did JESUS stoop when he lay in a manger, much -more when he hung upon the accursed tree. When I think of this mystery -of godliness, I am lost in thought. This makes me to despise all human -happiness, and sets my soul a longing for a full fruition of my JESUS. -I pray GOD to give your Lordship grace to determine to know nothing -but JESUS CHRIST, and him crucified. He is the only center of true -happiness. In him alone, solid, lasting joys are to be found. Having -JESUS, I find in him I possess all things. But whither am I going? -Your Lordship will excuse me. My heart at present is enlarged. I pray -GOD to visit your Lordship with his great salvation. I thank your -Lordship for your intended benefaction to the poor _Georgia_ orphans. -I hope the glorious Emmanuel will accept it at your hands. I have -sent your Lordship another parcel, seeing the first hath miscarried. -I shall follow it with my poor prayers, being, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLVI. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 13, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -I Longed to receive a letter from you. Blessed be GOD, my longing was -satisfied this day. My heart is much united to you, and carried out -for you. I utterly disapprove of some persons separating principles. -I find, Satan now turns himself into an angel of light, and stirs up -GOD’s children to tempt me to come over to some particular party. The -associate Presbytery have been hard upon me; but I find no freedom, -any longer than I continue just as I am, and evangelize to all. I know -not that I differ from you in one thing. Glory be to GOD for what he -has done at _London_! He is doing great things here. I walk in the -continual sunshine of his countenance. Every day, fresh seals are -given of my ministry. This morning GOD opened my voice to speak to -preachers of the gospel. Be pleased to accept of this summary account -of my proceedings. On _Sunday_ morning, I visited and preached to the -orphans here, and in the evening to as many people as the _Sunday_ -before. Every day since, excepting _Monday_, I have preached either in -the churches or field twice a day, and yesterday I collected upwards -of ninety-three pounds for the _Georgia_ orphans. People are daily -coming under deep convictions, and fresh invitations are sent me to -preach at divers places round about. On _Sunday_, I purpose to preach -in the country, and also the greatest part of the following week, and -shall return again, GOD willing, about _Friday_ to this city. O my -brother, exhort all to praise the LORD. I have most sweet letters from -many awakened ones. GOD, I believe, will work in the ministers and -young students hearts. Even so LORD JESUS. Amen. Pray fail not writing -to - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLVII. - - _To Mr. D―――― E――――, at Sterling._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 13, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Received your kind letter, and heartily bless GOD, if any thing -dropping from my unworthy lips was made of service to your soul. I -believe, GOD inclined me to speak to you. The sons of the prophets are -much upon my heart. I pray GOD that you may be polished shafts, and -noble instruments in his hands, of building up living temples for the -Holy Ghost. The treatment I met with from the associate presbytery, -was not altogether such as I expected. It grieved me, as much as it -did you. I could scarce refrain from bursting into a flood of tears. I -wish all were like-minded with your honoured father and uncle: matters -then would not be carried on with so high an hand. I fear they are led -too much. Such violent methods, such a narrow way of acting, can never -be the way to promote and enlarge the kingdom of the blessed JESUS. -It surely must be wrong to fix such bounds to ourselves, as forbid -even our hearing those who love the LORD JESUS in sincerity, and have -also been owned of him. CHRIST would not have done so.――Supposing the -scheme of government which the associate presbytery contend for to -be scriptural, yet forbearance and long-suffering is to be exercised -towards such as may differ from them; and I am verily persuaded, -there is no such form of government prescribed in the book of GOD, -as excludes a toleration of all other forms whatsoever. Was the New -Testament outward tabernacle to be built as punctual as the old, -as punctual directions would have been given about the building it; -whereas, it is only deduced by inference, and thus we see Independents, -Presbyterians, and Episcopalians bring the same text to support their -particular scheme, and I believe JESUS CHRIST thereby would teach -us to exercise forbearance and long-suffering to each other. Was -the associate presbytery scheme to take effect, out of conscience, -if they acted consistently, they must restrain, and grieve, if not -persecute many of GOD’s children who could not possibly come into -their measures; and I doubt not but their present violent methods, -together with the corruptions of that assembly, will cause many to -turn Independents, and set up particular churches of their own. This -was the effect of archbishop _Laud_’s acting with so high an hand; and -whether it be presbytery or episcopacy, if managed in the same manner, -it will be productive of the same effects. Blessed be GOD, I have -not so learned CHRIST. I preach the simple gospel, and our glorious -JESUS is pleased to attend it with his power. Every day I feel more -and more of the divine presence, and people are coming to me crying, -“What shall we do to be saved.” The love of JESUS fills my soul, and -constrains me to write thus freely to you. O dear Sir, I love and -honour your pious father. Remember me in the kindest manner to the -good old man. I pray GOD, his last days may not be employed too much -in the non-essentials of religion. My heart is knit to the family. -GOD forbid, that any thing should hinder us from taking sweet counsel -together. GOD willing, I am to preach at _Falkirk_ on _Tuesday_ -evening, and purpose to be at _Sterling_ that night, and to preach -twice there the next day. If it was thought advisable, I would collect -for the Orphan-house at _Georgia_ in the afternoon. The LORD be with -you, and all the family. Forget me not in your prayers.――I am a poor -unworthy wretch. As such, pray for - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLVIII. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 15, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -IT would make your heart leap for joy, to be now in _Edinburgh_. I -question if there be not upwards of 300 in this city seeking after -JESUS. Every morning, I have a constant levee of wounded souls, many -of whom are quite slain by the law. GOD’s power attends the word -continually, just as when I left _London_. At seven in the morning, we -have a lecture in the fields, attended not only by the common people, -but persons of great rank. I have reason to think several of the -latter sort are coming to JESUS. Little children also are much wrought -upon. GOD much blesses my letters from the little orphans. He loves -to work by the most contemptible means. O my dear brother, I am -quite amazed, when I think what GOD hath done here in a fortnight. My -printed journals and sermons have been blessed in an uncommon manner. -I am only afraid lest people should idolize the instrument, and not -look enough to the glorious JESUS, in whom alone I desire to glory. -Congregations consist of many thousands. Never did I see so many -bibles, nor people look into them, when I am expounding, with such -attention. Plenty of tears flow from the hearers eyes. Their concern -appears various ways. I preach twice daily, and expound at private -houses at night, and am employed in speaking to souls under distress -great part of the day. I have just snatched a few moments to write -to my dear brother. O that GOD may enlarge your heart to pray for me. -This afternoon I shall preach out of town, and also to-morrow. Next -post, GOD willing, you shall have another letter. I walk continually -in the comforts of the Holy Ghost. The love of CHRIST quite strikes me -dumb. O grace! grace! Let that be my song. Adieu. My dear fellow- -traveller joins with me in hearty love to you all. I must away. - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXLIX. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Georgia._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 24, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -WITH very great difficulty I get time to write this. The LORD is doing -great things in _Scotland_. I preach twice daily to many thousands -with great power. I have collected here very near two-hundred pounds, -and have a prospect of collecting much more. Mr. _N――――_ has drawn -upon me for three hundred pounds sterling. I have paid two of it. Some -hundreds remain yet unpaid. GOD gives me to put my trust in him. I -have bought five hundred yards of cloth for the dear orphans winter’s -wear, and shall send you the other things you mentioned. I rejoice -to hear that the LORD is with you. I do not wonder at the contempt -you meet with, or the calumnies which are spread abroad. Remember -the burning bush. O my friend, my dear friend, how shall I thank you -for your prayers, care, and love? I am willing to wash all your feet. -Perhaps in the Spring, I may embark; but cannot yet determine. I have -written to you many letters, and I always remember you in my prayers. -I am glad to hear that you can go to market without money. The LORD -increase your faith. My dear brother, I love you in the bowels of -JESUS CHRIST. I will do what I can for Mr. _B――――_. I thank dear Mr. -_J――――_, from my heart, for his great kindness. I wrote to him and -to Mr. _B――――_, and near thirty more, a month ago. Expect also some -money shortly. I had rather bear any burden, than have my dear family -burdened. I thank Mr. _W――――_ for his care. His brethren here are well. -I have not time to tell you, how I love and esteem you for the care -you take of the dear lambs. I long to weep over you all. Excuse me for -not writing particularly. The LORD be with you all. As soon as I can -possibly redeem time, you shall hear again, my dear Mr. _H――――_, from - - Ever yours in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCL. - - _To the Rev. Mr. R―――― E――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Aug. 24, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Thank you for your kind letter. I believe it proceeded from love; -but, as yet, I cannot think the solemn league and covenant is any -way obligatory upon me. Indeed, dear Sir, you mistake if you think I -temporize on account of the orphans. Be it far from me. I abhor the -very thought of it. I proceed now, just as I have done ever since I -came out in the ministry; and so far from not setting a hedge about -our LORD’s garden, that was I called to it, I should set a much closer -hedge than that which the associate presbytery are planting. I should -enquire into people’s experiences, before I admitted them to the -LORD’s table. I would have church members meet in church fellowship, -and tell one another what GOD has done for their souls. You seem to -think I am not open to light. That I may give you satisfaction, I am -willing to confer with Mr. _W――――_ at _Perth_, where I am to be by -divine permission on _Thursday, September 3_. On _Tuesday_ next, about -four in the afternoon, I purpose preaching at _Dumfermling_.――I am -engaged to sup at your collegue’s house, but intend to lie at yours. -In the mean time be pleased to pray for me, and to remember my love to -all your family; and believe me, reverend Sir, to be - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. O――――, at Aberdeen._ - - _Perth, Sept. 3, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Have received two letters from you, which much affect me, knowing -how unworthy I am of such endearing expressions, or indeed of any -notice at all. But what shall I say? Grace! grace! JESUS loves me, -and so does his servant for JESU’s sake. O free grace! I am sorry to -find that any should insinuate, my not coming to _Aberdeen_ is owing -to your cold invitation. Such a thought never entered my heart, but -quite the contrary. The distance of the way, and my pressing call to -_England_, will keep me from you, and nothing else. I love and honour -you for my master’s sake. I should be glad to wash your feet, and if -possible I will yet see you. But if GOD should not permit me, dear Sir, -be not offended. The LORD is pleased to give me much freedom and power -in preaching. Congregations are every where large, and they have been -very liberal to my poor orphans. O that I was humble, and thankful! -I am the chief of sinners: I feel myself such. O the efficacy of -CHRIST’s blood! It is omnipotent; it hath saved me. Dear Sir, my heart -is melted down with the love of JESUS. He is a dear master. He hath -suffered no evil to befal me, as you have already heard. I have not -so much as hurt my foot against a stone. Help me to praise him. Worthy -is the Lamb that was slain, to receive all honour and glory and riches -and power and blessing! With much difficulty, I get time to send you -these few lines.――Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your very affectionate, obedient friend, younger brother, - and servant in the gospel, - - _G. W._ - -P. S. For nine days past, I have continued preaching with great power -twice every day, to very large and affected auditories in many towns -and villages. - - - LETTER CCCLII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. W――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 19, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THOUGH nature calls for rest, and I am to preach four times to-morrow, -yet I cannot go to bed without answering your kind letter. Blessed -be GOD for any good done at _Dundee_! Not unto me, not unto me, but -unto JESUS CHRIST be all the glory. Thanks be to GOD, I can yet send -you more glad tidings. At _Creif_ we had a most precious meeting. At -_Glasgow_ I preached ten times. The LORD was with me of a truth. The -congregations were very large, as were the contributions, and many -were brought under the deepest convictions. With great regret we -parted, and with great joy was received at _Edinburgh_. I had some -thoughts of abiding in _Scotland_ longer, but last night I received -a letter, which almost determined my return to _England_. Next -_Saturday_, GOD willing, I purpose to leave this place, and shall -return into these parts, if providence points a way, in the Spring. I -do not despair of seeing _Scotland_ like _New-England_. Reverend Sir, -for the present adieu. My poor body bids me to stop. O when shall I -sleep no more! I am exceedingly weary, but am affectionately, Reverend -and dear Sir, - - Your most unworthy and obedient brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLIII. - - _To Mr. T―――― G――――, in London._ - - _Edinburgh, Sep. 24, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -THIS serves to inform you, that on _Sunday_ last I preached here four -times, twice in a church, and twice in the fields; in the evening I -collected twenty pounds for the royal infirmary. On _Monday_ morning, -I visited the children in three hospitals, and preached in the evening -in the park; also at _Kinglassy_, _Aberdour_, and _Innerkeithing_, on -_Tuesday_ and _Wednesday_. On _Thursday_ I visited the prison, and in -the evening preached to the children of the city, with a congregation -consisting of near twenty thousand in the park. It is remarkable that -many children are under convictions, and every where great power and -apparent success attend the word preached. Calls to divers places, -are so numerous and importunate, that I think it my duty to stay -in _Scotland_ some time longer: being in haste, can say not more at -present. My love to all that love the LORD JESUS. - - Your most affectionate friend, brother, and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLIV. - - _To the Right Honourable Lord L――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 25, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -THOUGH nature calls for rest, yet love and gratitude oblige me to -sit up to answer your Lordship’s letter, lest I should not have time -in the morning. Blessed be the glorious Redeemer! who seems in some -degree to be working upon your heart. My prayer to GOD is, that these -convictions may continue, ’till they end in a sound conversion. You -do well, my Lord, to fear, lest they should wear off. I have not had -so much acquaintance with the world as your Lordship; but I know it is -a deceitful thing, and without the utmost care and watchfulness, will -insensibly divert the soul from GOD. Your Lordship is in a dangerous -situation. A fear of contempt, and a love for honour, falsely so -called, render religion unfashionable amongst the rich and polite -part of mankind. But the blood of JESUS is almighty, and makes the -soul more than conqueror. Here is the fountain to which you and I -must apply, to wash away all our sins. And is it yet open for all -poor sinners? Come then, my Lord, and lay yourself at the feet of -the blessed JESUS. He can, he will, if you believe on him, abundantly -pardon you. But faith is the gift of GOD. I pray GOD to give you no -rest, ’till you have received the full assurance of faith. Then will -you recover your primitive dignity, trample earth under your feet, and -with your soul be panting after GOD. O my Lord, it is a blessed thing -to have fellowship with the Father, and with the Son. I am a poor -despised minister of JESUS CHRIST; but I would not change my Master -for ten thousand worlds. I have food to eat, that the world knows -nothing of. I long to have your Lordship taste of it too, and shall -as it were travail in birth ’till JESUS CHRIST is formed in you. Your -Lordship need not remind me to pray for you. Your eternal welfare is -much upon my heart. My Lord, now is the accepted time, now is the day -of salvation. The blessed spirit is now striving with you, and saying, -“My son, give me thy heart; what hast thou to do any more with idols?” -I hope your reply will be, “LORD, I give thee my heart, my whole heart, -and will no longer keep back from thee the least part.” Then will your -Lordship be truly happy; for so far as we are void of GOD, so far we -are miserable. But whither am I running? It is late; but your Lordship -desired a long letter, and therefore I have taken the liberty to write -freely. I am sensible of the honour put upon me by your Lordship, -and hope I shall never betray any trust reposed in me. I pray GOD -to sanctify this, and bless our fellowship when we meet together. I -thank your Lordship for your concern about the orphans. I am persuaded -you will in no wise lose your reward. I hope your Lordship received -my last letter, which gave an account of my intended preaching -at _Kinglassie_ and _Coupar_. May the glorious JESUS sanctify my -continuance in these parts, to the promoting his own glory and the -good of souls! I think I can say, “to me to live is CHRIST.” It -revives me to see so many seeking after JESUS. At _Kinglassie_ the -power was extraordinary. O free grace! that GOD should make use of -such a wretch as I am. I desire to lie humbly in the dust, and say, -“Why me, LORD, why me?” Fear not, my Lord, I have received remission -of sins by the blood of JESUS. Into his arms, I am just about -to commend your Lordship. I pray GOD to visit your soul with his -salvation; and hoping my humble respects will find acceptance with -your Lordship, your lady, and lady _Ann_, I beg leave to subscribe -myself, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLV. - - _To the Right Honourable Lord R――――._ - - _Gallashiels, Sept. 28, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -YOUR letter I fear has been too long unanswered, but gratitude will -not permit me to defer answering it any longer. I have also received -your Lordship’s liberal benefaction for the orphans, for which and all -other favours, your Lordship hath my hearty thanks.――The innumerable -instances of GOD’s goodness quite melt me down. The word of GOD -prevails more and more. Every where JESUS CHRIST is getting himself -the victory in poor sinners hearts. Young and old from many quarters -fly to the gospel, as doves to the windows. I trust, your Lordship’s -daughters will feel the power of CHRIST’s blood. Happy they, who do -feel it. They rest in GOD. They are sons and daughters of the LORD -Almighty. What a rich person is the poorest christian? He is joint -heir with JESUS CHRIST. Supported with this thought, and feeling -the power of it in my soul, I can despise all sublunary enjoyments, -and long to be wholly swallowed up in GOD. Happy day, when we shall -converse with the world no more! I pray GOD to give me patience to -wait ’till JESUS comes. I would leap my seventy years, and fly upon -the wings of faith and love, into the blessed Redeemer’s presence. I -hope your Lordship is thus minded. May the glorious _Emmanuel_ keep -you so, ’till your soul is carried into _Abraham_’s bosom. This is the -hearty prayer of, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient and obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLVI. - - _To the Right Honourable lord L――――_ - - _Edinburgh, Oct. 2, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -LAST night I returned from the south country, and receiv’d your -Lordship’s kind letter. My invitation to _Coupar_ was in the name -of many: who the persons were that signed the letter I cannot tell. -I have sent it inclosed in this. Had I known it to have been more -agreeable to your Lordship, I would have appointed the meeting at -_Melvill_; but I fear, as such public notice has been given, it -will be now impracticable. I cannot possibly stay with your Lordship -all _Tuesday_, being to preach at _Dundee_. But in my return from -_Aberdeen_, I hope to be at your Lordship’s house. I am glad your -Lordship intends to be at _Kinglassie_. I shall have both sermons -very early, and hope the glorious JESUS will be with us in our going -to _Melvill_. O my LORD, I want a thousand tongues to set off the -Redeemer’s praise. Having him, tho’ I have nothing else, I find I -possess all things. I have not forgotten your Lordship since I wrote -last. You are, and will be much upon my heart. I have heard of the -piety of your Lordship’s ancestors, and hope many prayers are yet in -store for you. Above all, I trust, JESUS prays for you, and then you -cannot but be a conqueror; nay, more than conqueror over the world, -the flesh and the devil. Take courage then, my Lord, and fear not to -follow a crucified JESUS without the camp, bearing his sacred reproach. -Beware of honour, falsely so called: dare to be singularly good, and -be not ashamed of JESUS or his gospel. O that you may find it to be -the power of GOD to your salvation! Look but to CHRIST by faith, and -your Lordship’s great possessions will not retard, but further and -promote your progress in the divine life. What sweet communion will -your Lordship then enjoy with GOD, in your walks and gardens? It will -then be a little paradise to your soul, and every thing you meet with, -will only draw you so much nearer to _Jehovah_, in whom all fulness -dwells. This I find by daily experience; and that your Lordship may -daily experience the same, is the earnest prayer, my Lord, of - - Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLVII. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _Melvill, October 5, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Have, by the ship that brings you this, sent you 70 _l._ worth -of different sorts of goods to be disposed of, and the money to be -applied for the use of the _Orphan-house_. You are to let Mr. _B――――_ -have 20 _l._ I have also sent 600 yards of cloth, a present of my own, -to make the boys and girls gowns and coats, some whereof I have had -made up here. The other things were given by various persons. Amongst -these, you will find some damask table-cloths, which I desire you -will sell, they being too good, in my opinion, for our use. O my dear -friend, how faithful is the LORD JESUS! He has now enabled me to pay -my brother, and Mr. _N――――_’s bill of three hundred pounds sterling. -There is yet 200 _l._ to be paid, which I borrowed since my arrival -in _England_; but very shortly I hope to discharge that also. I have -been in _Scotland_ about two months, and think to be here about a -fortnight longer. GOD is pleased to give me health, and to bless -my ministrations in an abundant manner. The little children in the -hospitals, are much wrought upon. Saints have been stirred up and -edified, and many others, I believe, are translated from darkness -to light, and from the kingdom of satan to the kingdom of GOD’s dear -Son. The good that has been done, is inexpressible. I am intimate -with three noblemen, and several ladies of quality, who have a great -liking for the things of GOD. I am now writing in an earl’s house, -surrounded with fine furniture; but glory be to free grace! my soul is -in love only with JESUS: he helps me more and more. I feel but little -straitness in preaching, and we have often sweet appearances of the -divine presence in our large assemblies. As to my own soul, it is -very comfortable and composed; I feel the power of JESUS more, and -the power of indwelling sin less. I am daily waiting for the coming of -the Son of GOD. I fear I am too impatient to be gone; but what can the -soul do, when sick of love? I have some thoughts of visiting _Ireland_. -Whether I shall do that, or come to _America_ in the Spring, GOD only -knows. I pray for, and long to see you and the rest of my dear family. -I trust, I then shall behold, what I long to behold, a houshold of -faith, a company of poor sinners walking in the simplicity and love -of the meek and lowly JESUS. O that you may so live, that whosoever -comes amongst you may say, “Surely GOD is in this place.” Thousands -of prayers are put up for us, and thousands of lies are spread abroad -against us. But JESUS enables me to fight my way through all, and I -am persuaded he will make me more than conqueror through his love. In -_England_, the work goes on well. Brother _C――――_ is much blessed in -_Wiltshire_; and brother _H――――_ wrote me word some time ago, that he -had examined about three hundred souls of our society, most of which -had been wrought upon since my return from _Georgia_. Help me to cry, -Grace! grace! My dear friend and brother, for the present adieu! I -love you in the bowels of a crucified JESUS. Brethren, pray for us. - - I am ever, ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLVIII. - - _To Mr. H―――― in Edinburgh._ - - _Melvill, October 5, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -I Received your kind letter with the bill, and also that signed by you, -and my other friends at _Edinburgh_. I take all they say in good part, -but think some of their reasonings a little too worldly. The calumnies -of evil men are not to be regarded. I value them not in the least. My -largest donations have been from the rich and substantial. The mites -which the lower sort of people have given, I am persuaded will not -prevent their paying their debts, or impoverish their families. Mr. -_W――――_, in a letter to Mr. _S――――_, wishes there may be a private -contribution for myself; but I know nothing of, and will not admit of -any such thing. I make no purse; what I have, I give away.――Freely I -have received, freely I desire to give. “Poor, yet making many rich,” -shall be my motto still. My great and professed design, is to bring -poor sinners to JESUS CHRIST: but as my orphan family abroad is now -large, and daily to be provided for, without the least visible fund, -and I believe much glory will redound to GOD from that house; I think -it my duty to speak to those, who I believe, for CHRIST’s sake, are -willing to help them. I would have no one afraid of doing too much -good, or think, that a little given in charity will impoverish the -country.――May GOD reward you, and all others that have assisted me for -his dear Son’s sake! My poor prayers will always attend my _Scotch_ -friends. When I shall go to _England_, I know not, but I hope GOD will -direct me. I must have done. Dear Sir, may the LORD be with you, and -be your ease in pain. My kindest respects attend your kind wife, and -all my dear friends. I thank you and them for their advice, and desire -to subscribe myself, with much affection, dear Sir, - - Your obliged, and affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. M――――, at Dornock._ - - _Aberdeen, October 9, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -SOME time past, I received a letter from your Presbytery of -_Sutherland_, and if I mistake not, with your name subscribed. -However, as I this night have seen your son, I think it my duty in -a letter to you, to thank the reverend presbytery for their kind -invitation; but as my stay in _Scotland_ is so short, and _Sutherland_ -so far Northward, I cannot think of going thither at this time. -Notwithstanding, my prayer to GOD is, that the glorious gospel may -flourish in your hands, and that you may bring many, very many souls -to JESUS. This, reverend Sir, unless my heart deceives me, is my only -aim. - - _For this let men revile my name, - I shun no Cross, I fear no shame; - All hail reproach, and welcome pain, - Only thy terrors, LORD, restrain!_ - -O, dear Sir, my heart is warmed with the love of JESUS; whilst I am -writing, the fire kindles. Amazing, that JESUS should suffer me to -speak for him! But what shall we say? His grace is free. Dear Sir, -help me to cry, Grace! grace! Surely I shall sing it in heaven. I -long to be there, but am willing to tarry the LORD’s leisure. Dear -Sir, excuse this freedom; I hope I am writing to one that loves JESUS. -I would write more, but must away to give a word of exhortation. That -the LORD JESUS may fill you with all joy and peace in believing, is -the hearty prayer of, Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your affectionate friend, brother, &c. in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLX. - - _To Major M――――._ - - _Aberdeen, October 9, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -BEING come thus far Northward, and hearing that you are this way, I -cannot forbear writing, though nature calls for sleep. I was concerned -I could not see you at _London_; but hope this will find you retired -from a noisy world, and walking with your dear spouse as becometh the -gospel of JESUS CHRIST. It is what I have longed and prayed for many a -time. I am of the same mind as formerly. Nothing but JESUS can satisfy -the soul. Aided by his Almighty power, I still go on through good -report and evil report, preaching the gospel. Blessed be GOD, I am not -ashamed of it. For, I find it, as do many others, to be the power of -GOD to our eternal salvation. O, dear Sir, I feel more and more of the -love of CHRIST every day. It is past expression. I hope ere now you -have had it shed abroad in your heart abundantly, by the Holy Ghost. -A letter informing me of this, will rejoice my soul. Be pleased to -direct to me at Mr. _T――――_’s, _Edinburgh_. GOD willing, I purpose -leaving _Scotland_ in about a fortnight. Whether I shall see you in -the flesh, I know not. However, since I know what GOD once did for -you, be not offended, if I charge you, dear Sir, not to let me miss -you at GOD’s right-hand in the great day. But GOD only can bring this -to pass: That you and your dear wife may be kept by his mighty power -unto salvation, prays, dear Sir, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXI. - - _To Mrs. Ann D――――, at great Gransden._ - - _Aberdeen, October 9, 1741._ - _My dear Sister_, - -THIS evening your letter came to hand. Though it is past eleven at -night, and I have rode many miles this day, yet I cannot go to-bed -without sending you a line. I fear, by your manner of writing, you are -offended with me for my last letter. I knew very well, it would be a -trial to you; but I wrote out of pure love, and am glad it is now in -your power to clear your husband, which I much desired to do. I have -too many aspersions of the same nature cast upon me, not to sympathize -with you both. But JESUS is our advocate, and ere long we shall see -all the accusers of the brethren cast down. In spite of all, JESUS has -been, and is getting himself the victory in many sinners hearts. I am -yet carried on day by day, strengthened in body, and much refreshed -and comforted in soul. Your letter gives me a little present pain, -lest my last should have pained you. But GOD permits these things to -happen among ourselves, to teach us to look off from all creatures, -and to centre all our happiness in himself. Glory be to GOD for his -almighty love! At my first coming here, things looked a little gloomy; -for the magistrates had been so prejudiced by one Mr. _B――――_, that -when applied to, they refused me the use of the kirk-yard to preach in. -This Mr. _B――――_ is collegue with one Mr. _O――――_, at whose repeated -invitation I came hither. Though collegues of the same congregation, -they are very different in their natural tempers. The one is what they -call in _Scotland_, of a _sweet blooded_, the other, of a choleric -disposition. Mr. _B――――_ is neither a Seceder, nor quite a Kirk-man, -having great fault to find with both. Soon after my arrival, dear -Mr. _O――――_ took me to pay my respects to him; he was prepared for -it, and immediately pulled out a paper, containing a great number of -insignificant queries, which I had neither time near inclination to -answer. The next morning, it being Mr. _O――――_’s turn, I lectured and -preached; the magistrates were present. The congregation very large, -and light and life fled all around. In the afternoon Mr. _B――――_ -officiated; I attended. He began his prayers as usual; but in the -midst of them naming me by name, he intreated the LORD to forgive the -dishonour that had been put upon him, by my being suffered to preach -in that pulpit; and that all might know what reason he had to put up -such a petition, about the middle of his sermon, he not only urged -that “I was a curate of the church of _England_,” but also quoted a -passage or two out of my first printed sermons, which he said were -grossly _Arminian_. Most of the congregation seemed surprized and -chagrined, especially his good-natured collegue Mr. _O――――_, who -immediately after sermon, without consulting me in the least, stood -up and gave notice, that Mr. _Whitefield_ would preach in about half -an hour. The interval being so short, the magistrates returned into -the session’s-house, and the congregation patiently waited, big with -expectation of hearing my resentment. At the time appointed, I went -up, and took no other notice of the good man’s ill-timed zeal, than to -observe in some part of my discourse, that if the good old gentleman -had seen some of my later writings, wherein I had corrected several of -my former mistakes, he would not have expressed himself in such strong -terms. The people being thus diverted from controversy with man, -were deeply impressed with what they heard from the word of GOD. All -was hushed! and more than solemn! and on the morrow the magistrates -sent for me, expressed themselves quite concerned at the treatment I -had met with, and begg’d I would accept of the freedom of the city. -But of this enough. The LORD, my dear sister, my support; let us both -continually fly to him, and then let men or devils do their worst. -CHRIST will by and by take away our reproach. Into his hands I commend -your spirit. Good night; the LORD be with you and yours! I hope to set -out for _England_ soon. Pray write when you hear of my arrival there, -and so convince me, that you are not angry with - - Your affectionate tho’ unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXII. - - _To Mr. W――――, at Edinburgh._ - - _Aberdeen, October 10, 1741._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Just snatch a few moments to answer your letter. Want of leisure -prevented my doing it before. I have not as yet seen your mother’s -memoirs. Happy are you in having such a parent. No doubt many prayers -are in store for you. As for your entering upon the ministry, I cannot -advise you, ’till you have gotten full satisfaction that you are -born again of GOD. I know more than one, who are ready to give up -their ministry for want of this; and as for my own part, I could not -feelingly press the love of GOD to others, unless I was sure of his -love to myself. I know not what may have passed between GOD and your -soul. You can tell, I suppose, whether or not GOD’s spirit witnesseth -with your spirit, that you are a child of GOD? For he that believeth, -hath the witness in himself. If you have got this with a moderate -share of learning, a good elocution and a burning love for precious -souls, then, I think you may do service in a public station. If godly, -and real experienced friends are for your entering into the ministry, -their advice is somewhat to be regarded. If their advice proceeds -from worldly motives, do not mind them at all. The discouragements you -meet with from some, are not worth your notice. If GOD loves you, he -will try you every way. Prayer, meditation, and temptation, are three -necessary qualifications for a gospel minister. I know not what to -say about your going to _Georgia_. In _Pensylvania_, and other places, -there are most noble opportunities of preaching the gospel of JESUS. -But I hope to be in _Edinburgh_ in about ten days, and then shall be -glad to converse with you. In the mean time, dear Sir, I commend you -to GOD, and desire you would not forget the unworthy creature, who now -subscribes himself - - Yours in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J―――― W――――._ - - _Aberdeen, October 10, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Brother_, - -I Have for a long time expected that you would have sent me an answer -to my last; but I suppose that you are afraid to correspond with me, -because I revealed your secret about the lot. Though much may be said -for my doing it, yet I am sorry now, that any such thing dropped from -my pen, and I humbly ask pardon. I find I love you as much as ever, -and pray GOD, if it be his blessed will, that we may be all united -together. It hath been for some days upon my heart to write to you, -and this morning I received a letter from brother _H――――_, telling me -how he had conversed with you and your dear brother. May GOD remove -all obstacles that now prevent our union! Though I hold particular -election, yet I offer JESUS freely to every individual soul. You may -carry sanctification to what degrees you will, only I cannot agree -that the in-being of sin is to be destroyed in this life. O, my dear -brother, the LORD hath been much with me in _Scotland_. I every -morning feel my fellowship with CHRIST, and he is pleased to give me -all peace and joy in believing. In about three weeks I hope to be at -_Bristol_. May all disputings cease, and each of us talk of nothing -but JESUS, and him crucified! This is my resolution. The LORD be with -your spirit. My love to brother _C――――_, and all that love the -glorious _Emmanuel_. I am, without dissimulation, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXIV. - - _To Peter B――――._ - - _Aberdeen, October 10, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Write this, to ask pardon for mentioning your name in my answer to -brother _W――――_’s sermon. I am very sorry for it. Methinks I hear you -say, for CHRIST’s sake I forgive you. I thank you, and shall be glad -of a conference with you when I come to _London_. There have been -faults on both sides. I think, my dear brother, you have not acted -simply in some things. Let us confess our faults to one another, and -pray for one another, that we may be healed. I wish there may be no -dissention between us for the time to come. May GOD preserve us from -falling out in our way to heaven! The world and the devil are united -against us; O that we could all unite against them! “GOD is love, -and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in GOD.” I long to have all -narrow-spiritedness taken out of my heart. JESUS is able to deliver -me. His blood is Almighty. I trust I shall not rest, ’till I have felt -the full power of it in my soul. Blessed be GOD, I am still carried on -from conquering to conquer. JESUS causes me to triumph in every place. -I desire to lie as a poor sinner at his feet, and to cry, Grace! -grace! I find I am shortly to be called before the higher powers. Help -me, my dear brother, by your prayers. In about nine days I think to -leave _Scotland_. I commend you to JESUS, and desire to subscribe -myself, dear brother _B――――_, - - Yours affectionately in the bleeding Lamb, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXV. - - _To the Reverend Mr. C――――._ - - _Aberdeen, October 13, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Received your letters, and am glad to hear that the glorious -_Emmanuel_ is pleased to countenance your ministry. May he smile on -you more and more, and make you the spiritual father of many children! -I have very great reason to be thankful to our common Saviour. -He hath been with me greatly, both in _England_ and _Scotland_. I -generally preach twice every day, sometimes three, even four times, -and generally expound in private every night. The LORD has fought many -battles for me, and still continues to make me more than conqueror -through his love. This morning I felt his power in the pulpit, and now -feel it much in my soul. O what a blessed thing it is, to have GOD’s -spirit witness with our spirit, that we are GOD’s children! This, -glory be to free grace! I have continually; and let me be in what -frame soever, my soul is waiting for the coming of the Son of Man. -Blessed be GOD, it will not be long ere I shall see him as he is. -The sight I have of him by faith, ravishes my soul: how shall I be -ravished when I see him face to face! “LORD, purify me, even as thou -art pure; for only the pure in heart see thee!” My dear brother, the -love of GOD now fills my soul. May you feel it shed abroad abundantly -in your heart! About Spring, perhaps, I may leave _England_. Forget -not to pray for me. - - I am, dear Mr. _C――――_, - Ever yours in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXVI. - - _To the Right Honourable the Earl of L――――._ - - _Brechen, October 17, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -I Would have wrote to your Lordship from _Aberdeen_, but could not -then determine when I should be at _Melvill_. This comes to acquaint -your Lordship, that, GOD willing, I hope to be at your Lordship’s -house on _Wednesday_ night, and to preach at _Coupar_ on _Thursday_. -I should be glad if the magistrates were apprized of it, and the tent -fixed in a more convenient place, and at a less distance from the -ground. I cannot tell your Lordship, how good the glorious _Emmanuel_ -has been unto me. He has caused me to triumph in every place, and -fills my soul with joy unspeakable, even with joy that is full of -glory. I wish your Lordship was not almost, but altogether such -as I am, excepting my indwelling corruptions. O my Lord, none but -Christians know the pleasure of renouncing the world for GOD. I am -persuaded you felt unspeakable pleasure at _Coupar_. I hope those days -have continued with you. Happy are you in having a consort that will -forward you in the spiritual life. That you may both live together -as becomes heirs of the grace of GOD, and have all joy and peace in -believing, is the earnest prayer of, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXVII. - - _To Mr. Thomas G――――, at London._ - - _Dundee, October 21, 1741._ - _Dear Brother G――――_, - -YOU will see, by the following, what GOD is still doing for me. -On _Wednesday_ night last I left _Aberdeen_, after preaching there -seven times, besides expounding in private. Before I came among them, -numbers were much prejudiced against me; but GOD was pleased to attend -my ministry with such power, that all opposition fell before me. Many -were brought under great convictions. The magistrates made me free of -the city; and the people much regretted my speedy departure from them. -On _Thursday_ last I preached at _Stonhithe_ and _Benham_; on _Friday_, -thrice at _Montrose_; on _Saturday_ twice, and on _Sunday_ thrice at -_Brechen_, and lectured in the evening at a private house. On _Monday_ -I preached twice at _Forfar_; on _Tuesday_ twice at _Coupar_, in -_Angus_; and once at _Dundee_, five miles from _Coupar_, at four in -the afternoon, and again at night; here I have also preached twice -this day. The presence of GOD accompanies me more and more. Wherever -I have preached, I hear of the good fruits of it, both in convicting -sinners, and reviving saints. At _Dundee_, the concern among the -hearers is very remarkable. People are still more desirous to hear the -word. But, GOD willing, I purpose shortly to set out for _England_. -My dear brother, pray for me, that I may be humble and thankful. I am -glad to hear your wife is recovered. My love to her, and all friends. -I am, with cordial affection, Dear brother _G――――_, - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXVIII. - - _To the Right Honourable the Lord L――――._ - - _Edinburgh, October 26, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -IT is now past eleven at night; all is wrapt in awful silence. My -soul is in a quiet composed frame. I have been giving your Lordship’s -letter a second reading, with aspirations to GOD whilst I perused it. -Surely GOD has not let me wrestle with him in vain. The Holy Spirit -seems to be moving upon the face of your soul. I trust GOD hath said, -“Let there be light,” and therefore there is light. O that the work -may be carried on, till you enter into that rest which remains for the -people of GOD. I trust your Lordship will now awake into a new world, -and know what it is to live by faith. Did I not know the power of -CHRIST’s blood, I should fear for you. But I commend you to a glorious -Redeemer, that will certainly take care of you. As I left your -Lordship’s house, I was thinking, that the narrow escape your Lordship -had between the stones, foreboded something good. JESUS has taken care -of you when in your blood. I hope he is now passing by you, and saying -unto you, “Live.” O that the stone of infidelity, which before lay at -the door of your heart, may be now rolled away! O that you may rise, -be loosed from your corruptions, and go about doing good! Satan will -not let you go without much opposition. He will desire to have you, -that he may sift you as wheat. But if JESUS prays for you, all will -be well. The comfort which you had with him in reading the psalms, is -a taste of the food believers daily eat, and which the carnal world -knows nothing of. My Lord, if you could be brought once to love secret -prayer, and to converse feelingly with GOD in his word, your heaven -will begin on earth; you will enjoy more pleasure than in all manner -of riches. What will those avail, if you are not rich towards GOD? Be, -therefore, my Lord, much in secret retirement. Commune with your own -heart in your chamber, and be still, and you will then hear the secret -whispers of the Holy Ghost. As for praying in your family, I intreat -you, my Lord, not to neglect it. You are bound to do it. Apply to -CHRIST for strength to overcome your present fears. They are the -effects of pride, or infidelity, or of both. After once or twice, the -difficulty will be over. O that the blessed Spirit may enable you to -make intercession with groaning that cannot be uttered! It rejoices me -to think, that I shall one day perhaps see a church in _Melvill_ house. -Happy, happy are you, my Lord, in having such a consort, who will -forward your Lordship in every good word and work. How sweet will it -be for you to go early to your devotions, striving to live like the -first happy pair, before they had eaten the forbidden fruit. As GOD -shall enable me, I shall bear you both upon my heart. GOD forbid that -I should sin against him in ceasing to pray for you. My riding upon -your Lordship’s horse, will often remind me to pray for the donor. My -Lord, you are upon my heart. Methinks I would undergo the pangs of the -new birth for you; but JESUS can carry you through. Fear not. Go on -in his strength, and your Lordship will be enabled to stand the shock -of all. I should be glad to hear, from time to time, what the LORD is -doing for your soul. Since your Lordship has laid your commands upon -me, I shall write as often as possible. If your Lordship is pleased -to write within this week, a letter may be directed to me at Mrs. -_J――――_’s, in _Abergavenny_. If afterwards, at Mr. _S――――_’s, Grocer, -in _Wine-street_, _Bristol_. Your Lordship may depend on my secresy; -no one hath seen your Lordship’s letter, but Mr. _S――――_, who copies -this, and who is as my own soul. His prayers, I trust, will benefit -your Lordship. His humble respects await both you and your lady. Once -more, I pray GOD to bless you both together. But it is late, the clock -has struck twelve. Methinks I could wish the cry was now made, “Behold, -the bridegroom cometh.” My soul longs to go forth to meet him. This -evening I was greatly refreshed by preaching on these words, “This -is my beloved, and this is my friend, oh daughters of _Jerusalem_.” -O when shall I see him as he is! Well may your Lordship say, “He is -altogether lovely.” The more you know him, the more you will have -reason to commend him. Eternity is too short to utter all his praise. -With a heart full of affection and thanks for all favours, I beg leave -to subscribe myself, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXIX. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, at London._ - - _Edinburgh, October 27, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -ALTHOUGH it be past eleven at night, yet I cannot miss a post. The -LORD is doing very great things here. At _Dundee_ the C―――― was very -extraordinary. On sabbath-day, the LORD enabled me to preach four -times, and to lecture in the evening at a private house. Yesterday -I preached three times, and lectured at night. This day JESUS has -enabled me to preach seven times. Once in the church, twice at the -girl’s hospital, once in the park, once at the old people’s hospital, -and afterwards twice in a private house. Notwithstanding, I am now as -fresh as when I arose in the morning. “They that wait upon the LORD -shall renew their strength; they shall mount on wings like eagles.” It -would delight your soul to see the effects of the power of GOD. Both -in the church and park the LORD was with us. The girls in the hospital -were exceedingly affected, and so were the standers-by. One of the -mistresses told me, she is now awakened in the morning by the voice -of prayer and praise; and the master of the boys says, that they meet -together every night to sing and pray; and when he goes to their rooms -at night to see if all be safe, he generally disturbs them at their -devotions. The presence of GOD, at the old people’s hospital, was -really very wonderful. The Holy Spirit seemed to come down like a -mighty rushing wind. The mourning of the people, was like the weeping -in the valley of _Hadadrimmon_. They appear more and more hungry. -Every day I hear of some fresh good wrought by the power of GOD. I -scarce know how to leave _Scotland_. I believe I shall think it my -duty to pay the inhabitants another visit as soon as possible. May -the LORD order my goings in his ways! Above five hundred pounds hath -been collected, in money and goods, for the poor orphans. Let all that -is within me praise GOD’s holy name. To-morrow, GOD willing, I shall -leave this place, and go through _Wales_, in my way to _London_. You -may hear from me on the road. At present, I must conclude; it is very -near twelve. I intreat you to pray and give thanks for, dear brother -_C――――_, - - Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXX. - - _To the Right Honourable the Lord L――――._ - - _Abergavenny, Nov. 10, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -I Cannot bear the thoughts of forbearing to write to your Lordship -any longer. I know your Lordship will be pleased to hear that we had -a good journey. CHRIST’s presence made it so. The horse carried me -exceeding well. My heart was often drawn out to pray for the donor. -Does your Lordship’s soul prosper? Has JESUS said, “Be of good cheer, -it is I; be not afraid, thy sins are forgiven thee.” Can it yet be -said, “Behold, he prayeth.” I find a restraint upon me now, so that -I cannot write. GOD calls me to retirement; being to enter into the -marriage state to-morrow. I am persuaded your Lordship will not fail -to pray, that we may, like _Zachariah_ and _Elizabeth_, walk in all -the ordinances and commandments of the LORD blameless. I hope my most -humble respects will find acceptance with your Lady. Indeed, my Lord, -you are both much upon my heart. Though I have only liberty now to -subscribe myself, with all gratitude, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient and obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXI. - - _To Mr. T――――, at Edinburgh._ - - _Abergavenny, Nov. 19, 1741._ - -THIS morning I received your kind letter; for which, and all other -favours, you have my most hearty thanks. I remembered you in prayer, -soon after your’s came to hand: blessed be GOD for the news which it -contained. I yet expect to hear of, if not to see far greater things -in _Scotland_. The LORD has begun, and he will carry on a work, which -shall make the ears of his enemies to tingle. I have enjoyed much of -the divine presence since we parted. On _Saturday_ I was married, in -the fear of GOD, to one who, I hope, will be a help meet to me. GOD -has been pleased to work, by my hands, since I have been in _Wales_. -O stupendous love! O infinitely condescending GOD! Be pleased to -direct your next to _London_. I hope to be there in about three weeks. -My wife I shall leave in the country for some time. Dear Mr. _T――――_, -pray for us. I do for you and yours. Labour after an abiding of GOD -in your soul, so that you may continually by faith see him who is -invisible. Do not be content with being a dwarf in religion: aspire -after the utmost degrees of inward purity and holiness. I could go on, -but must write some more letters. Dear brother _S――――_, and my dear -wife, salute you and all friends. They are not forgotten, dear Mr. -_T――――_, by - - Your most unworthy, but most affectionate friend - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXII. - - _To the Right Honourable Lady D――――, in Scotland._ - - _Bristol, Nov. 22, 1741._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -AT length I have a little leisure. I must improve it, by writing a -letter to your Ladyship. The many favours conferred on me, loudly -called for a more speedy acknowledgment; but hitherto, business for -my Master has prevented. Dear Mrs. _C――――_’s letter will inform your -Ladyship that I have altered my state; I trust for the better; for -I think my soul is more intimately united to JESUS CHRIST than ever. -I would humbly hope your Ladyship can say so too; for there is no -happiness till we can feel an union of soul with GOD. That, and -that only, as your Ladyship has often heard me assert, is true and -undefiled religion. Your own experience will best convince you of the -truth thereof. Your Ladyship enjoys great advantages, and glorious -means of making progress in spiritual things. You are rich in this -world’s goods; may GOD make you rich in faith and good works! My -Master will not forget the kindness you have shewn to one of the least -of his servants. It gives me comfort to think, what sweet freedom of -spirit I have enjoyed, when opening the scriptures in your Ladyship’s -house. Surely GOD was with us of a truth. The savour of it is not yet -gone off my own soul, nor, I hope, from your Ladyship’s also. Since I -left _Edinburgh_, I have put up many hearty prayers for you and your -family. The LORD make it an houshold of faith, and make you perfect, -entire, lacking nothing! The glorious _Emmanuel_ seems to be repairing -the breaches of his tabernacle, which were fallen down. In _Wales_ we -had much of the divine presence. The people there are so hungry after -the word, that they are resolved not to leave wrestling with the Most -High, till he shall be pleased to send me thither. O that GOD may -incline your Ladyship to intercede in my behalf! for I long to be -humble, and to lie low as a very poor sinner at the Redeemer’s feet. -I think I can say, he brings me nearer and nearer to himself daily; -and I will not rest, till I am moulded into the image of my bleeding -LORD. I pray GOD that your Ladyship may be content with no degrees -of holiness; but may be daily pressing forward, till you arrive at -the mark of the prize of the high calling in CHRIST JESUS. Mr. _S――――_ -desires to join with me in sending our most affectionate respects and -thanks to your Ladyship and all friends. Our particular respects await -dear Mr. _McV――――_. I trust he will yet live to see glorious days of -the Son of Man. Surely CHRIST is getting himself the victory. May he -long reign king in your soul, and reward you a thousand-fold for every -token of love shewn to, honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXIII. - - _To the Right Honourable the Earl of L――――._ - - _Bristol, Nov. 24, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -MY heart longs to send you another letter. I wish, above all things, -that your soul may prosper. I had an extraordinary power given me to -pray for you lately in _Wales_. GOD gave me to wrestle, and I think an -assurance that I should prevail. I am looking out for an answer. Your -Lordship’s next letter, I hope, will afford me matter for rejoicing in -your behalf. Your Lordship is now entered on the field of battle: you -are engaged in a cruel, but a glorious warfare. Go on; though faint, -yet still pursue: _nil desperandum, Christo duce, auspice Christo_. My -prayer for your Lordship is this: - - _Give him a will, give him the pow’r, - Still equal to the war; - Great Captain of Salvation, thou - Thy trembling soldier chear!_ - -O, my Lord, it is a blessed thing to fight the Redeemer’s battles: I -find he makes us more than conquerors through his love. I still enjoy -much of the divine presence, and hope I pass from glory to glory daily. -I preach here at six in the morning, and also in the evening. GOD -causes his goodness to pass before us. In a week I hope to set out -for _London_. Be pleased to direct your next thither. The lords have -returned my appeal. At present, a hook is put in the leviathan’s nose. -“When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh his enemies to be at -peace with him.” I hope your Lady prospers both in body and soul. -My own, and dear fellow-travellers most humble respects and prayers -attend your whole houshold. I am, with great affection, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXIV. - - _To T―――― E――――, in Edinburgh._ - - _Bristol, Nov. 27, 1741._ - _My dear Friend_, - -WHEN we parted, I promised your wife to write upon the road; but I -found it impracticable. Since I came to _Wales_ I have had no time. -Now I have, GOD gives me freedom. Though late, be pleased to accept a -letter of thanks for all favours. I think we felt each others spirits, -both, I trust, united mystically, really, and eternally to CHRIST, our -common head, and to one another in love. O that all would center here. -It would then be said once again, “See how these Christians love one -another.”――As for my own part, I am resolved not to rest till every -thing, contrary to true, catholic, christian love, be rooted out of -my soul. CHRIST’s blood and spirit are able to do this for me. I only -need to pray to GOD to make me willing to have it done. Be pleased to -help me, my dear friend, when GOD enables you to draw near unto him. -My dear companion would beg the same. Our tender love awaits both you -and your wife. I am lately entered into the marriage relation. JESUS -was called to; JESUS was present at the marriage. We have lately -enjoyed much of the divine presence. Many precious promises have been -pressed upon my soul. I believe I shall see greater things than ever. -We cannot expect too great things from GOD. But I must have done. I am -waited for. Accept these few lines in love, from - - Your affectionate friend and brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXV. - - _To Mr. A――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Nov. 30, 1741._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -I Thank you for your kind letter. Though I hope to see you on _Friday_, -yet love constrains me to send you an answer. I rejoice that your -soul is thirsting for holiness. GOD grant it may never cease till -you experience the full and glorious liberty of his children. I see -plainly how satan loves to drive to extremes. Since there is no such -thing as having the in-being of sin destroyed, he would not have -people press after a delivery from the power of it. This is also owing -to the corruption of our own hearts. The old man doth not love to be -crucified and slain; but I hope the language of your heart and mine is -this, - - _Reign in me, LORD, thy foes controul, - That would refuse thy sway; - Diffuse thy image thro’ my soul, - And bring the perfect day._ - - _Scatter the last remains of sin, - And seal me thine abode; - O set me purified within; - A temple meet for GOD._ - - _My root of holiness thou art, - For faith hath made thee mine; - With all thy fulness fill my heart, - Till I am wholly thine._ - -No wonder, when we come to be thus minded, if carnal ministers, and -carnal professors of all kinds, cry out against us. Nay, even some -who have tasted that the LORD is gracious, having slumbered and slept, -and mixed too much with the world, even such frequently fight against -their privileges, and rest in an infant state of piety. But, I believe, -the LORD will rouse them, and let the world know, what the blood of -JESUS can and will do. Blessed be his name, we have a growing church -at _Bristol_. Yesterday, and several other times, the LORD hath filled -many as with new wine. Sometimes I scarce have known whether I have -been in or out of the body; but, I find, the more I receive of grace, -the more I desire to lie as a poor, very poor sinner at the feet of -the wounded Lamb. Several have just now been with me, who have this -last week, especially yesterday, drank deep of divine love. They are -now full of the comforts of the Holy Ghost. I pray that they may walk -humbly with their GOD; for it is a good thing to know how to manage -a manifestation aright: nature so frequently and artfully blends with -grace, that, for want of a close watch and tender walk, we grieve the -Holy Spirit. Hence arise deadness and darkness in the soul. Unbelief -creeps in, the chariot wheels of divine love are taken off, and the -soul drives heavily. Let us, therefore, my dear brother, live a life -of great nearness to JESUS; and labour day by day to perfect holiness -in the fear of GOD. There is a glorious rest to be entered into even -here. May the LORD make us partakers of it! But why should I in the -least doubt it? - - _Thou wilt give strength, thou wilt give power, thou wilt in - time set free: - This, great Deliverer, let me hope; this, not for self, but - Thee._ - -For the present, adieu! - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXVI. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――._ - - _London, Dec. 7, 1741._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Came hither last _Friday_, and received a packet of letters from -_Bethesda_; but wonder to find none from you. When I read brother -_Grant_’s account of the circumstances of the family, I remember what -the LORD pressed upon my soul on ship-board, “The bridegroom shall -be taken from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” However, -be not discouraged; professor _F――――_’s students were once obliged -to sell their cloaths to buy candles. The work of GOD advances here -greatly. We have a large society, consisting of several hundreds, and -a noble place to meet in: I have called it a _Tabernacle_, because, -perhaps, we may be called to move our tents. In _Wiltshire_, and at -_Kingswood_, there are many good souls, and two new houses built. In -_Wales_ the door is opened wider than ever. From thence (_Abergavenny_) -the LORD has given me a wife. Her name was _James_, a widow, between -thirty and forty years of age. She has been a housekeeper many years. -Once gay; but, for three years last past, a despised follower of the -Lamb of GOD. I left her about three weeks ago, and am going to-morrow -to settle affairs, and to bring her up to _London_. I thank your -dear wife for her letter: had I freedom I would answer it: but I have -essayed several times before I could finish this. My sister _G――――_ is -dead: I trust she slept in JESUS. GOD is pleased to let me feel more -of his power than ever. O that his whole mind was in me! I hunger -and thirst after righteousness: blessed be GOD, there is a promise -that such shall be filled. By the letters sent with this, my dear -family will see that I have not forgotten them. No: I pray for them -continually. I cannot certainly tell when I shall leave _England_. -Providence detains me here. The work is very extraordinary in -_Scotland_. I hear daily accounts of its continuance and increase. -The door is opened in all places. The Lords see through Mr. _G――――_’s -enmity, and will have nothing to do with my appeal: so that a hook is -put into the leviathan’s jaws. I believe we shall see greater things -than ever. My dear friend, salute all most tenderly in my name; I am -exceedingly engaged, or each of them should hear particularly from, - - Ever, ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXVII. - - _To the Right Honourable Lord R――――._ - - _Gloucester, Dec. 19, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -THIS comes to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship’s kind letter, -dated _November 9th_. Business has prevented my answering it sooner. -The LORD is yet pleased to deal bountifully with me. In _England_, -as well as _Scotland_, the Redeemer is riding on from conquering to -conquer. About Spring I hope to see _Scotland_ again, and then, if -possible, I will come as far as your Lordship’s house. I have lately -been at _Bristol_, and _London_, and have had the pleasure of seeing -the church walk in the comforts of the Holy Ghost. I have preached -here twice every day, for some days last past. The LORD greatly -countenances my administrations, and gives me constant peace and -uninterrupted joy in believing. This is what, I trust, our glorious -_Emmanuel_ will confer upon your Lordship. CHRIST wills that our joy -should be full; but we entangle ourselves with the world, we indulge -ourselves in sensual pleasures, we trifle away our time in what the -world calls innocent diversions, and thereby we grieve the spirit of -GOD, and lose the comforts we should otherwise enjoy, from a close -walk and communion with GOD. Most complain of a deadness and leanness -in their souls; what is it owing to? Not to GOD, but to ourselves. We -leave GOD, and then GOD leaves us. Not that we can keep ourselves by -our own faithfulness; but notwithstanding, we must be faithful, and -workers together with GOD. I know not why I am led to write thus to -your Lordship, but nothing else occurs to my mind at present. I am -athirst for holiness myself, and long to see others athirst also. O -my LORD! I see such beauty and transcendent excellencies in CHRIST, -that I long to have his whole mind and image stamped upon my soul. -Nothing can satisfy me, but the highest degrees of sanctification and -inward holiness. Here, I believe, I am laudably ambitious. My Saviour -wills my sanctification, my Saviour would have me filled with all -the fulness of GOD. Even so LORD JESUS come quickly! Dear Mr. _S――――_ -humbly salutes your Lordship, and prays for your temporal and eternal -welfare, with, my LORD, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient, obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXVIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, at London._ - - _Gloucester, Dec. 22, 1741._ - _My dear Brother_, - -LAST _Thursday_ evening the LORD brought me hither. I preached -immediately to our friends in a large barn, and had my master’s -presence. On _Friday_ and _Saturday_ I preached again twice. Both the -power, and the congregation increased. On _Sunday_ GOD by a particular -providence opened a door for my preaching in St. _John’s_, one of the -parish churches. The late incumbent was my grand opposer. He being -dead, and the new minister not having taken possession, the power of -the pulpit was in the church-wardens hands. GOD inclined them to let -me preach there on _Sunday_ morning, and yesterday afternoon. Great -numbers came, and the LORD gave me unspeakable power. On _Sunday_ -afternoon, after I had preached twice at _Gloucester_, I preached -at Mr. _F――――_’s at the hill, six miles off and again at night at -_Stroud_. The people seem to be more hungry than ever, and the LORD to -be more amongst them. Yesterday morning I preached at _Painswick_ in -the parish church, here in the afternoon, and again at night in the -barn. GOD gives me unspeakable comfort, and uninterrupted joy. Here -seems to be a new awakening, and a revival of the work of GOD. I find, -several country people were awakened when I preached at _Tewksbury_, -and have heard of three or four that have died in the LORD, who were -called under GOD by me. We shall never know what good field-preaching -has done, till we come to judgment. Many who were prejudiced against -me, begin to be of another mind, and GOD shews me more and more, “that -when a man’s ways please the LORD, he will make even his enemies to -be at peace with him.” To-morrow morning I purpose to set out for -_Abergavenny_, and to preach at _Bristol_, in _Wilts_, _Gloucester_, -and _Gloucestershire_, before I see _London_. The people in these -parts seem excellently well disposed. I hope the work of the LORD -prospers in your hand; though absent in body, I am present with you -in spirit. May the LORD _Jehovah_ comfort you continually with those -comforts wherewith I am comforted in him! I hope my comforts are of a -right nature; they humble at the same time that they exalt me. I find -all my happiness lies in a crucified GOD. - - _To the blest fountain of thy blood, - Incarnate GOD, I fly; - Here let me wash my spotted soul, - From crimes of deepest dye._ - - _A guilty, weak, and helpless worm, - Into thy arms I fall; - Be thou my strength and righteousness, - My JESUS, and my all._ - -Pray for - - Your unworthy brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXIX. - - _To the Right Honourable the Lord L――――._ - - _Abergavenny, Dec. 24, 1741._ - _My Lord_, - -THIS day I received a letter from your Lordship, which, I find, your -Lordship wrote before my third and last came to hand, wherein I gave -your Lordship an account of the circumstance of my marriage. As soon -as I received your Lordship’s letter, I kneeled down and prayed, that -your Lordship might be entirely delivered from unbelief, and be made -a partaker of that faith, which will make you more than conqueror over -all. Blessed be GOD, for convincing you thus far. I hope the event -will prove, that JESUS is taking possession of your whole heart. Your -Lordship’s opinion of those who call themselves christians, is very -just. Free grace has opened your eyes. Your Lordship can therefore -join in the following verses, which I think applicable to your -Lordship’s case. - - I. - _Long did my soul in JESU’s Form, - No comeliness or beauty see; - His sacred name by others priz’d, - Was tastless still, and dead to me._ - - II. - _Men call’d me christian, and my heart - On that delusion fondly staid; - Moral my hope, my Saviour self, - Till mighty grace the cheat display’d._ - - III. - _Thanks to the hand that wak’d my soul, - That shew’d me wretched, naked, poor; - That sweetly led me to the rock, - Where all salvation stands secure._ - - IV. - _Glad, I forsook my righteous pride, - My moral, tarnish’d, sinful dress; - Exchang’d my loss away for CHRIST, - And found the robe of righteousness._ - -If your Lordship from your soul can sing thus, fear not that JESUS -will leave you. - - _O unbelief, injurious bar, - Source of tormenting fruitless fear; - Wherein thy loud objections fall, - “Tis finished,” still shall answer all._ - -Remember, my Lord, the Redeemer’s love is everlasting. If he has -passed by, and said unto you “Live,” you shall live for evermore; -for whosoever liveth and believeth in JESUS, shall never die. Does -my Lord believe this? Then welcome into the new world, welcome among -the despised _Israel_ of GOD, welcome into the Mediator’s kingdom, -where you shall have all peace and joy in believing. When first I was -awakened, - - _Refreshed, I thought my joys compleat, - When lo! Immanuel’s bounties rise; - Still fresh discoveries he unfolds, - The lovely treasures yet surprize!_ - -My Lord, I now wonder no longer at the choice of _Moses_. Well might -he count the reproach of CHRIST of more value than all the riches of -_Egypt_. GOD forbid, therefore, that you or I should henceforth glory, -save in the cross of CHRIST. It will be more honour to be a suffering -servant of CHRIST, than to be the king’s commissioner. Your Lordship -will pardon this freedom. Methinks I hear you say, “There is no -comparison.” Indeed there is none. I would not change my post for ten -thousand kingdoms. Blessed be GOD, that has given you a distant view -of the emptiness of all things here below, and the insufficiency of -every thing to make us happy besides GOD. May these things be realized, -and stamped upon your Lordship’s heart! Then what a happy creature -will your Lordship be? How will it rejoice me to see your Lordship -next Spring. I know not but my friends prayers may draw me there, -about that time. In the mean while, I pray GOD from time to time to -grant you a growth of grace, that you may know what it is to abide in -GOD, and have a constant indwelling of the Holy Ghost. I rejoice to -hear that lady _Ann_ seems to look heavenward. May JESUS make her a -wise virgin! For her encouragement, I have sent an extract of a letter -lately sent to me by a friend in _London_; and that your Lordship -may know how it is with me, I have sent a copy of a letter I wrote to -that friend a day or two ago. Last night I came hither, and preached -this afternoon. I purpose shortly to go to _Gloucester_, _Bristol_, -_Wiltshire_, and so to _London_. The church there as well as elsewhere -flourishes. The time for favouring _Zion_, I believe, is indeed come. -You see, my Lord, how long my letters are, when I have freedom and -leisure. I have thought several times to write to your Lordship, but -was restrained till I received your Lordship’s letter this morning. -Be pleased to direct your next to be left with Mr. _P―――― S――――_, -_Leadenhall-street_, _London_. My prayers shall follow this. O may -JESUS breath upon it, and then it must be blessed to your soul! I -heartily and humbly salute the elect lady your wife.――May you both be -filled with all the fulness of GOD! My dear wife and Mr. _S――――_ join -heartily with me. We all plead at the throne of grace in your behalf, -and GOD alone knows, how often you are remembered and wrestled for, -by, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXX. - - _To the Right Honourable Lady Mary H――――._ - - _Abergavenny, Dec. 24, 1741._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -THIS morning I received your Ladyship’s kind letter; when perused, -I laid it before the LORD of all Lords, and prayed for you and yours -with all my power. My dear wife and Mr. _S――――_ joined heartily with -me, and by this send their most humble respects. We do not despair of -waiting upon your Ladyship next Spring: but ere that time, we may be -all launched into the world of spirits, where we shall sing glory to -him that sitteth upon the throne for ever. Does not your Ladyship long -for that happy hour? Methinks I hear you ready to say - - I. - _How long, great GOD! how long must I, - Immers’d in this dark prison lie? - When shall I leave this dusky sphere, - And be all mind, all eye, all ear?_ - - II. - _I long to see that excellence, - Which at such distance strikes my sense; - My soul attempts to disengage - Her wings from this her earthly cage._ - - III. - _Wouldst thou, Great Love, once set her free, - Hast’ning she’d quick unite to thee; - She’d for no guardian angels stay, - But fly and love thro’ all the way._ - -This, I believe, was the language of your honoured mother’s heart, who -is now joined with the heavenly choir above. Methinks I hear her say, -“Daughter, follow me as I followed CHRIST; aspire after the highest -degrees of holiness, for the more holy you are, the nearer shall you -sit to the GOD-Man CHRIST JESUS, the deeper insight shall you have -into the beatific vision.” This, honoured Madam, is a great motive to -my soul to copy after my glorious JESUS. Blessed be GOD, that made my -letter savory to your soul. For this, and all other mercies, I desire -to lie in the dust, and kiss the Redeemer’s feet. I do not wonder that -_Mary_ loved to sit there: I do not wonder that another _Mary_ wiped -them with the hairs of her head. Was my LORD here, I should wish for a -thousand alabaster boxes of ointment, to break for him. But JESUS says, -“Give me thy heart, and I desire no more.” My soul replies, - - _Take my poor heart, and let it be - For ever clos’d to all but thee; - Seal thou my breast, and let me wear - That pledge of love for ever there._ - - _How blest are they who still abide, - Close shelter’d in thy bleeding side; - Who life and strength from thence derive, - And by thee move, and in thee live._ - -O honoured Madam, I am amazed at JESUS’s love. I willingly, join with -you in saying, “Amen, Hallelujah! Worthy, indeed, is the Lamb that was -slain.” I bless GOD for enlarging your heart, and giving you freedom -to write. It is sweet to communicate our thoughts of JESUS. I hope -the LORD will bless this to your Ladyship, and reward you for all past -favours. My humble respects attend Mr. _H――――_, and my hearty love to -your little lambs. I prayed for them this morning. When I go to town, -I hope to wait upon the _Marquis_.――――I have been a short circuit into -_Gloucestershire_, and find the divine presence accompanying me more -and more. O that I was humble! O that I was thankful! - - I. - _And can it be that I should gain - An interest in the Saviour’s blood? - Died he for such as caus’d his pain, - Sinners who him to death pursu’d?_ - - II. - _’Tis mystery all, Messiah dies; - Who can explore this strange design? - In vain the curious seraph tries - To sound the depths of love divine._ - -But whither am I going? Your Ladyship will excuse me; whilst I am -writing, the fire kindles. - - _Thro’ all eternity to GOD, - A grateful song I’ll raise; - But O eternity’s to short, - To utter all his praise._ - -With expectation of another letter, and with hearty prayers for your -temporal and spiritual welfare, I subscribe myself, honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s obedient servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXI. - - _To Mr. Samuel M――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Dec. 28, 1741._ - _Dear Mr. M――――_, - -BOTH my wife and I received your letters. I send this, to thank you -for them. I came from _Abergavenny_ on _Saturday_ night. My dear wife -was pretty well; I expect her here on _Friday_. We shall bring no -more goods to _London_, than we shall use; but I know not what to -say about coming to your house, for brother _S――――_ tells me, you -and your family are dilatory, and that you do not rise sometimes till -nine or ten in the morning. This, dear Mr. _M――――_, will never do for -me; and I am persuaded such a conduct tends much to the dishonour of -GOD, and to the prejudice of your own precious soul. Sometimes I have -looked upon you with grief; you have busied yourself about the outward -affairs of religion in respect to others, and all the while I fear -neglected to look into, and study the improvement of your own heart. -I think you go backwards instead of forwards. I fear your present -business will not answer, and I am sure you will have no solid comfort, -till you look less abroad and more at home. Somebody said, you was -like the _Athenians_, who desired to hear some new-thing. I thought -the observation was too just. You are jealous about principles, (which -is right) but all the while your own practice is not sufficiently -watched over. I have heard that you spend much time in coffee-houses, -and from your own house. I hope these things are not so; and it is -with grief and out of tender love that I now mention them to you. For -some time I felt my heart quite locked up from writing to you. Mr. -_M――――_ will not be offended with me for this plain dealing. You know -I love you, and I am sure this letter proceeds from love. I know too -much of my own weakness and infirmities to insult others; and when a -brother is overtaken in a fault, I desire to restore him in the spirit -of meekness. But I know how much the glory of GOD is concerned in our -walk. The eyes of the world are now in an especial manner upon you. -How holy ought you and I, dear Mr. _M――――_, to be, in all manner of -conversation and godliness! Labour therefore, my dear brother, to get -an abiding presence of GOD in your heart. Be willing to be searched. -Pray that you may feel the full power of the Redeemer’s blood; and -walk in the continued comforts of the holy ghost. Be not slothful in -business. Go to bed seasonably, and rise early. Redeem your precious -time: pick up the fragments of it, that not one moment may be lost. -Be much in secret prayer. Converse less with man, and more with GOD. -Accept this advice, given in great love. I purpose staying here about -a fortnight. Dear Mr. _M――――_, I am - - Your affectionate though unworthy brother, - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. W――――, at Dundee._ - - _Bristol, Dec. 30, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Should blame myself much, for not writing to you before now, was I -conscious it was owing to any wilful neglect: but my master’s business -hath so engaged me, that I really have not had an opportunity. GOD -gave us a sweet journey to _England_. Since my return hither, I have -been at _Gloucester_, _Bristol_, in _Wales_, and at _London_, and -have great reason to bless our _Emmanuel_ for what he has done for -his church. My soul hath drank largely of the divine love. I have been -carried as on eagles wings, and am now better in health than perhaps -ever since I have been in the ministry. I preach here twice daily. -In about a fortnight, I shall remove to _London_, where I purpose to -continue, GOD willing, till the weather permits of field-preaching -again. About Spring, if Providence favours, I hope to pay you a second -visit. In the mean while, I should be glad to hear from you, what -fruits you have seen spring from my first. I hope the LORD will make -your latter end greatly to increase. I shall rejoice to hear of your -success. My soul is much engaged for poor _Scotland_. I shall be glad -to hear who has succeeded the good Mr. _W――――_ of _Perth_. Ah dear -man! He is now gone into the world of spirits, where there is no -seceding, but all join in one common strife, who shall praise their -LORD and master in the most exalted strains. I long to follow, but -desire patiently to wait till my blessed change come. What a comfort, -dear Sir, is it to think, that death is conquered. How sweet to be one -of CHRIST’s waiting servants! It is a blessed post! And such honour -belongs to all his saints. Thanks be to GOD for this unspeakable gift. -Dear Sir, whilst I am writing, the fire kindles. I long to leap my -seventy years. Welcome eternity; I want to see time swallowed up. But -I must have done, having other letters to write. My kind love to your -household and all friends. I hope ere long you will send a line to, -reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXIII. - - _To the Reverend Mr. O――――, at Aberdeen._ - - _Bristol, Dec. 30, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Long to write you a line, to testify the undissembled love my -soul bears towards you. I also long to hear what JESUS hath done at -_Aberdeen_. I believe he sent me thither, and I am persuaded he did -not send me there in vain. I have experienced fresh wonders of mercy, -since I saw you. The LORD has blessed my ministry in _England_, and in -_Wales_, where I trust I was married _in the_ LORD; and as I married -for him, I trust I shall thereby not be hindered, but rather forwarded -in my work. O for that blessed time when we shall neither marry nor -be given in marriage, but be as the angels of GOD! My soul longs -for that glorious season. Perhaps, sometimes I am too impatient. But -who that has tasted of JESUS ’s love, can forbear longing to be with -him? I long to see him as he is, and my soul will never be compleatly -satisfied till I arise after his divine likeness. This, I believe, is -the desire, and frequently the frame of dear Mr. _O――――_’s soul. But -I believe we both have crosses to take up, and many trials to undergo, -before we shall be admitted to the beatific vision. Alas! What a -stranger am I to the meekness which was in JESUS? How much acrimony -is there in my temper, that wants to be taken away? Blessed be GOD, -my Saviour is omnipotent. He can, he will deliver me. He can, he will -conform me to himself. I think I can sing these lines,―― - - _My root of holiness thou art, - For faith hath made thee mine: - With all thy fulness fill my heart, - Till all I have be thine._ - -Dear Sir, what a fulness is there in JESUS? What a pity is it, that we -should not draw largely out of it? Why should we be content with low -degrees of holiness? Why should we be always dwarfs in religion? I am -quite ashamed of my low stature. I am an unprofitable servant. O dear -Mr. _O――――_, pray for me, that the LORD may purge me, and that I may -bring forth more fruit. I have lately been at _London_, _Gloucester_, -_Wilts_, and _Wales_. The work of the LORD prospers. I preach here -twice every day. That GOD may bless and reward you all, is the earnest -prayer of, dear Mr. _O――――_, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXIV. - - _To the Rev. Mr. W――――, at Gallishiels._ - - _Bristol, December 30, 1741._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -THE love of JESUS constrains me to trouble you with a letter at this -time. Nothing but his work should have prevented my writing to you -sooner. But you know how it used to be with me. O how little do I for -JESUS, who has done so much for me! I abhor myself in dust and ashes. -I run to hide myself in his wounds. His righteousness, his blood alone -can recommend me to the Father. O that I was like CHRIST, that his -whole mind was wrought in my soul! I am now panting after his image; -I am now thirsting after his purity and holiness; help me, dear Sir, -help me by your prayers, that I may feel the power of the Redeemer’s -blood. He hath done great things already for me; but as yet I -have asked nothing. Greater things are yet before me. There is an -inexhaustible fulness, out of which the Redeemer would have me draw -continually. O for faith, for strong faith! - - _I more would bless, I more would thank, - I more would live to Jesu’s praise._ - -Since my return, I have been visiting the churches. They grow and -increase daily. I preach twice every day. The LORD is among us. I -hope I shall hear the same from you. In about fourteen days I go to -_London_. About Spring I hope to see _Scotland_ once more. I have good -news from the Orphan-house. As yet, I have not freedom to write out -the sermon which you mention. Through inadvertence, I did not send -you Mr. _M――――_’s letter. GOD’s time is best. Perhaps disputes about -church-government had better subside. I am determined to know nothing -but JESUS CHRIST, and him crucified. Be pleased to remember me to -dear Mr. _O――――_, at _Kelso_. I hope he behaves like a good soldier of -JESUS CHRIST. My kind respects attend your son. Be pleased to accept -of the same in a most tender manner from dear Mr. _S――――_, and from, -dear Sir, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXV. - - _To Mr. R―――― S――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Jan. 2, 1742._ - _My dear Brother S――――_, - -I Find freedom to answer your kind letter immediately. I thank GOD for -blessing my writing to your poor soul. Your salvation I long, and pray -for. So that souls are built up in their holy faith, let the Redeemer -make use of what instrument he pleases. Brother _Robert_, it is a -blessed thing to have always a Catholic spirit. I am persuaded, JESUS -will give it to me. I am resolved never to rest, ’till self-love, -bigotry, prejudice, and all narrowness of spirit be expelled out of my -soul. Blessed be the Redeemer’s free grace! I see more and more into -the inward recesses of my mind. Dear _Robert_, there is such a thing -as passing from glory to glory. For JESUS CHRIST’s sake, strive to -enter in at the straight gate, and never cease striving ’till you -enter into that rest which awaits the people of GOD. It is a sweet -thing to abide in JESUS’s wounds, and from a feeling possession -of GOD in the heart, to be able to say, “My fellowship is with the -Father and the Son.” It is true we are not to live, or rely on our -frames. The righteousness of JESUS CHRIST alone, and not our doings -or sufferings, can recommend us to the Father. But however, we ought -always to labour to be in a sweet and humble frame, and be watchful -against any thing whatever, that may interrupt our communion with GOD. -Peace and joy should flow in a believer’s soul, like a river. If any -thing should obstruct the passage, he should not rest ’till faith -overflows, and drives it away before him. I know not what others may -say, but thro’ grace I can sing with bishop _Ken_, - - _“To my soul it’s hell to be, - But for a moment void of thee.”_ - -O the fulness that there is in CHRIST! It fills my heart, and out of -the abundance of my heart my pen writeth. Dear _Robert_, may the LORD -bless it to your soul, and that will greatly rejoice - - Your most unworthy, though most affectionate friend, - brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXVI. - - _To Mr. I―――― H――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Jan. 2, 1742._ - _My dear Brother H――――_, - -I Owe you a letter, and very much love. I thank you for calling to -see me, when last in _London_. May the love of JESUS be shed abroad -abundantly in your heart by the Holy Ghost. My soul is now thirsting -after the Redeemer’s love. I trust you and I, and all the brethren, -shall watch and pray against every thing in our hearts, that is any -way selfish, or contrary to the boundless love of our exalted head. -I long after a solid, real, undissembled union with all that bear the -Redeemer’s image. If I know any thing of my heart, I care not how the -old man be crucified and cut to pieces, so that I may put on the new -man, which is created after GOD in righteousness and true holiness. -Blessed be the free, rich, and sovereign grace of our glorious -Redeemer! who has begun the good work in my soul. Great, very great -things hath JESUS done for me, a worthless worm: but I see infinitely -greater things lying before me. There is an inexhaustible fulness -in JESUS CHRIST, out of which I hope to draw to the endless ages of -eternity. O the meekness, the love, purity and holiness, that is in -JESUS. Why should we be dwarfs in holiness? If CHRIST came into the -world, that we might have life, and so much the more abundantly, why -should we not ask and seek for it, especially since we are sure to -obtain? My dear brother, you see how free I write. Love constrains -me to do so. O that I was a flame of fire! I have lately been -at _Gloucester_. The LORD was with us of a truth. In _Bristol_, -GOD attends me with his mighty power. Last night JESUS rode on -triumphantly indeed. Sometimes my heart is so full, that I am tempted -to think - - _――――My joy complete: - When lo! |Emmanuel’s| mercies rise, - Still fresh discoveries he unfolds, - The lovely treasures yet surprize._ - -Unbelief says, this will not hold to-morrow; when lo, “to-morrow is -as the day past, and much more abundant.” I find there is yet oil, -if there be yet a vessel, and an empty heart to contain it. Pray that -my heart may be emptied of self, and that JESUS may be my all in all. -I pray GOD, that none of us may give in to narrowness of spirit, but -look up to JESUS for power over self, in all its shapes. Yesterday -I went to hear Mr. _C――――_. The LORD helped him, I believe, in some -part of his discourse. I would be free; I would meet more than half -way; but we are all too shy. The LORD fill his soul with more of -the disinterested love of JESUS. To-night I begin a general monthly -meeting to read corresponding letters. Pray give thanks for the -success of the gospel in my unworthy hands. It shall be returned, -as JESUS shall enable - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXVII. - - _To Mrs. K――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Jan. 4, 1742._ - _My dear Sister_, - -THIS morning, in a letter from brother _C――――_, I heard that your -dear husband was dangerous ill of the small-pox. I was touched with -a tender sympathy of your case; I immediately kneeled down, and laid -your circumstances before our compassionate high-priest. I doubt not, -but he is touched with a feeling of your afflictions, and will give -you grace to help in time of need. I hope the language of your heart -is this: - - _Thy gifts, if call’d for, I resign, - Pleas’d to receive, pleas’d to restore; - Gifts are thy work, it shall be mine - The giver only to adore._ - -I was, before I received the news of your dear husband’s illness, -thinking that GOD’s people must meet with uncommon trials. We shall -often find GOD’s providences as it were contradicting his promises. -Thus it was with _Abraham_ and _Jacob_, and thus I believe it is in -some degree or other with all the children of GOD; for otherwise, how -can faith be exercised? I doubt not but the enemy of souls will now be -very busy with you, and break in with his fiery darts upon your soul; -but I pray JESUS to keep you from staggering through unbelief. May you -be strong in faith, giving glory to GOD! Against hope, may you believe -in hope. However your husband may be disposed of, my prayer for you -is, “LORD! make her still and resigned.” I think the love of CHRIST -constrains me to write you this letter. Who knows but the LORD may -bless it to your soul? However, as you love the LORD JESUS, I hope -you will receive it as a token of unfeigned christian sympathy and -affection from, dear Sister, - - Your most unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXVIII. - - _To Mr. Peter S――――, in London._ - - _Bristol, Jan. 7, 1742._ - -I Have been obeying your request: I mean, bowing my knees before the -GOD and Father of our LORD JESUS CHRIST in your behalf. O that he may -live before thee; that he may escape the pollutions that are in the -world through lust; that he may be filled with all the fulness of GOD, -was the breathing and language of my heart. I trust the LORD is now -working upon brother _S――――_. He seems to have had some discoveries of -the Redeemer’s love. May my dear _Peter_ receive the full assurance of -faith, and be truly fixed upon the rock of ages! “Even so LORD JESUS -come quickly. Amen and amen.” Excuse my writing to you in this manner, -but GOD has put into my heart such an undissembled love for you, -and your dear brothers, that I cannot be satisfied ’till I see the -Redeemer’s love shed abroad in all your hearts by the Holy Ghost. Ah -_Peter_, _Peter_, I trust JESUS prays for thee, and then the world -shall not steal away thy heart from GOD. Satan hath been sifting me -severely, these two or three days. I have had some close combats with -the great dragon, but JESUS hath gotten himself the victory. I am -enabled greatly to rejoice. For, “Blessed is the man that endureth -temptations; when he ♦is tried, he shall receive the crown of life.” -The brightness of it, even at this distance, dazzles my sight. Yet -a little while, and JESUS CHRIST shall give it unto us. Dear brother -_K――――_ has got the start of us. Happy man! He is at the end of his -race. I sympathize with, and have been praying for his surviving -friends. The LORD enable us all to walk so circumspectly, that the -common enemy may not have an occasion to speak reproachfully of -us. But whither am I running? Excuse me, dear _Peter_. GOD gives -me freedom in writing to, and praying for you. I hope dear brother -_R――――_ received my last in good part. GOD only knows how the -happiness of both of you is longed for by, dear brother, - - Yours in the crucified JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘his’ replaced with ‘is’ - - - LETTER CCCLXXXIX. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, in London._ - - _Gloucester, Jan. 28, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -ON _Friday_ last I left _Bristol_, having first settled affairs -almost as I could wish. At _Kingswood_, I administred the sacrament. -On _Wednesday_ night it was the lord’s passover; on _Thursday_ we -had a sweet love-feast; on _Friday_ the lord was with me twice at -_Tockington_; on _Saturday_ morning I broke up some fallow ground at -_Newport_, by preaching with power to about two thousand people, and -in the evening to many thousands at _Stroud_ with wonderous power; on -_Monday_ morning at _Painswick_, and ever since twice a day here. Our -congregations I think are larger than at _Bristol_. The word proves -sharper than a two-edged sword. Every sermon is blessed. These words -follow, “I have much people in this city.” I am just now going to -_Chafford_. To-morrow I expect my wife. In my next, I will send you -word what I intend to do. I was one day at _Bath_. I should be glad -to see brother _R――――_’s defence before it be published. I told him -of it; I believe he will be upon his guard. His soul prospers. Sinless -perfection I fear will be propagated in these parts. The LORD in his -due time will root out that pernicious weed. I thank you for writing -to me. Pray write to me often. GOD willing, I shall examine _Hampton -Society_ to-night. The same I think to do in _Wiltshire_. I want to be -in _London_ as soon as may be. Pray that I may know the LORD’s will. -We must away to _Chafford_. The LORD be with you, and abundantly -refresh you. My most tender love awaits all. Brethren, pray for - - Yours most affectionately in JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXC. - - _To the Rev. Mr. G―――― T――――._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 2, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Brother_, - -I Have longed for some time to send you a line, and have wondered that -I have heard no oftener from you; but as I know my own circumstances, -I can the more easily guess how it is with you. GOD has been very good -to me since my arrival. I found when I came at first, I had all my -work to begin again. Brother _W――――_ had so prejudiced the people -against me, that those who were my spiritual children would not so -much as come and see me; nay they have gone by me whilst preaching -in _Moor-fields_, and stopped their ears. This I find in some measure -hath been your case, and GOD wisely permits this, to teach us to -cease from man. _Paul_’s Epistles to the _Galatians_ much comforted -me. Besides, I was embarrassed with brother _Seward_’s death. He died -without making any provision for me, and I was at the same time much -indebted for the Orphan-house.――But all this was to humble and prepare -me for future blessings. The LORD hath enabled me, blessed be his -name, to keep steady to my principles and usual practice. A new and -numerous church has been raised at _London_. In _Essex_, the LORD -was wonderfully with me. Every where the congregations increase. In -_Bristol_ GOD enabled me to fight my way through. We have hired a -large hall, and have expounded there twice a day. In _Scotland_, the -work, for its beginning, is rather greater than at _New-England_. I -hear continually of the seed sown increasing, and springing up. GOD -willing, I purpose paying _Scotland_ another visit. I have lately -been at _Bristol_, and both there, and here, and also at _London_, -the word runs and is glorified. Through the tender mercies of our GOD, -I have been carried as on eagles wings through a variety of outward -and inward trials. The greatness of which none knows but GOD and my -own soul. About eleven weeks ago I married, in the fear of GOD, one -who was a widow, of about thirty-six years of age, and has been a -housekeeper for many years; neither rich in fortune, nor beautiful as -to her person, but, I believe, a true child of GOD, and would not, I -think, attempt to hinder me in his work for the world. In that respect, -I am just the same as before marriage. I hope GOD will never suffer -me to say, “I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.” I am -glad that matters are settling so amicably at _Philadelphia_. What a -pity is it, that we should fall out in the way to heaven! I would do -any thing except defiling my conscience, and giving up what I think -is truth, to prevent it. The associate brethren are much to be blamed; -I never met with such narrow spirits. I do not forget you, or your -brethren, or the churches in your parts. The LORD be with you. He -is pleased to shew me more and more of my own heart, and day by day -refreshes my soul. My body is weak as usual; but JESUS is my strength. -Help me to praise him. Pray send a line to, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate, though most unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCI. - - _To Mr. S――――, at New-Brunswick._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 2, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. S――――_, - -LAST week I received your kind letter. Blessed be GOD, who hath -brought you out of darkness into his marvellous light. I hope the -Redeemer hath now shewn you his hands and his feet, and you can now -say, “My LORD and my GOD.” What have you to do now but to walk humbly -with your GOD, and daily to aspire after the whole mind that was in -JESUS? I find but few truly labouring after this. Who can say, “My -soul is athirst for GOD, yea even for the living GOD:” and yet to such -only is the promised blessedness, of being filled, given. As for my -own part, I am ashamed to think how unlike I am to my Saviour; I see -such beauty in him, that I long to be conformed to his divine image -and likeness. May you and I, dear Mr. _S――――_, never rest till we have -attained unto it; and the more we do attain, the more willing we shall -be to come, as poor sinners, to JESUS CHRIST; it is a blessed thing, -dear Sir, to be brought out of self. It will be continually creeping -in: happy they who have power over it. I do not wonder at your -being united with Mr. _J―――― C――――_: he is a dear soul, and one whom -the LORD delights to honour. Blessed be GOD, the work in our hands -every where increases. I am supported and encouraged, quickened and -comforted day by day. JESUS loves and blesses me. May he bless you and -yours more and more, and cause you to walk in the comforts of the Holy -Ghost. My tender love to all. I hope yet to see you once more in the -flesh. In the mean while I beg leave to subscribe myself, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCII. - - _To Mr. W――――._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 2, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. W――――_, - -I Thank you for your kind letter. It should have been answered sooner, -had an opportunity offered. I bless GOD for you, who carries on in -your soul the spiritual building. I doubt not but the top-stone will -yet be brought out, and the builders be made with shouting to cry, -“Grace! Grace!” I should think it was not of GOD, if the work was not -opposed.――What difficulties did _Nehemiah_ go through in building the -wall? But fear not, the LORD is with you. He built not for man, but -for the LORD. By his leave, I propose bringing a school-master and -mistress with me. When I shall embark, I know not. The calls here -are so loud and numerous, and so few labourers sent forth to act in a -popular way, that I think it my duty not to leave _England_ yet. GOD -is pleased to work by my ministry more and more. My soul is refreshed, -and my body strengthened and renewed day by day. In _Scotland_ -there is a very great awakening; and also in _London_, _Bristol_, -_Wiltshire_, and _Gloucestershire_. But, notwithstanding all this, my -_American_ friends are by no means forgotten. I continually pray for -them. The LORD, in his due time, will send me to you. In the mean time, -be pleased to remember me in the tenderest manner to all that love the -glorious Redeemer. Grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied upon them and -you: so prays, dear Mr. _W――――_, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCIII. - - _To Mr. James R――――, in Philadelphia._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 2, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. R――――_, - -I Was glad to hear (though by another hand) of your safe arrival. May -your soul prosper, being rooted and grounded in love, and built upon -the rock of ages, the dear LORD JESUS. Blessed be GOD, the church is -in much greater peace than when you left _England_. There hath been -a very great awakening in several places. GOD hath brought order out -of confusion; and (as he always will) hath caused even our divisions, -though no thanks to us, to work for good. I hear you have had a -sifting time at _Philadelphia_. I never yet heard of a work of GOD, -but some such thing happened. This is my comfort, the government of -the church is upon the Redeemer’s shoulders; and therefore the gates -of hell shall never be able to prevail against it. I hope ere now -CHRIST has revealed himself in your heart, and given you the witness -of the Spirit. For he that believeth, hath the witness in himself. I -suppose you will be glad to hear, that the LORD hath, in a good degree, -delivered me from the embarrassments with which I was environed when -you embarked. GOD was then preparing me for further mercies. We must -be humbled before we are exalted. I suppose you have heard of my -marriage. The LORD hath given me a daughter of _Abraham_; she joins -in sending love to you and all, with, dear Mr. _R――――_, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCIV. - - _To Mr. G―――― T――――._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 5, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Brother_, - -ON _Tuesday_ I received yours. I bless GOD for delivering brother -_R――――_ out of the hands of his enemies. I am persuaded he will -deliver your brother _William_ also. By your desertion and temptations, -I believe GOD is preparing you for a fresh work. I believe you would -be better, if you would always evangelize. I shall write to some -friends about Mr. _C――――_’s principles. I thank you for your kind -caution. My mistakes often humble me. Never did JESUS send out a -more weak and worthless wretch. I have not freedom now to continue -writing a journal as usual. I shall proceed, for the future, in a more -compendious way. Since I wrote the inclosed, we have seen a glorious -appearance of the Son of Man. O infinite condescension! The LORD is -with me. That he may be abundantly with you, and bless your labours -more and more, is the hearty prayer of, Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate and loving, though most unworthy brother - in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCV. - - _To Mr. B――――, at Philadelphia._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 5, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -I Was much rejoiced to receive a letter from your hands. Blessed be -GOD for carrying on the work, which, I hope, was begun in your heart -long ago! I trust you will never rest till you are possessed of the -whole mind which was in CHRIST JESUS. He is our pattern; and if we -have true grace in our hearts, we shall be continually labouring to -copy after our great exemplar. O the life of JESUS! How little of it -is to be seen in those that call themselves his followers. Humility, -meekness, love, peace, joy, goodness, faith, and the other blessed -fruits of the Spirit, whither are they fled? I fear most take up -with the shadow, instead of the substance. GOD forbid that I, or dear -Mr. _B――――_, should be of that unhappy number. Dear Sir, there is an -unspeakable fulness, unsearchable riches in CHRIST. Out of him we are -to receive grace for grace. Every grace that was in the Redeemer, is -to be transcribed and copied into our hearts. This is Christianity; -and without this, though we could dispute with the utmost clearness, -and talk like angels, of the doctrines of grace, it would profit us -nothing. To prevent the growth of this inward life, I am persuaded -satan introduces heresies in the church, hoping thereby to stir up -strife, envy, prejudice, and narrowness of spirit; and where these are, -there will be every evil work. To this end, _sinless perfection_ hath -been propagated in _England_, and _Antinomian principles_ suffered to -be spread among you. But, blessed be GOD, both in _England_, and with -you, I trust disputations and distractions are abated, and love and -unity once more are lifting up their heads. This, at present, is the -language of my heart: - - _Let us find out the ancient way, - Our wond’ring foes to move; - And force the heathen world to say, - See how these Christians love._ - -“Love is of GOD; and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in GOD.” I -am glad you are erecting a society to promote this love. Fear not -the smallness of your beginning. What is begun in the fear of GOD, he -will prosper. I believe them to be true followers of JESUS CHRIST; and -though we agree not in all things, yet I pray GOD to make us one in -heart. Now, dear Mr. _B――――_, what shall I say more. The blessed JESUS -has been superabundantly good to my soul since my arrival. I have -been carried, though through much weakness, as on eagles wings. In -_England_, _Wales_, and _Scotland_, GOD hath blessed my poor labours -more than ever. The calls to divers places, are loud and importunate; -and, as GOD has raised up many labourers among you, I think it my -duty to stay here some time longer, and to visit _Scotland_ once more. -However, my friends abroad are continually upon my heart. I pray GOD -for you night and day. May the LORD fill you with all his fulness! I -desire to be remembered to all mentioned in your’s, and to all that -love the LORD JESUS. I love you unfeignedly, and entreat you to write -again to, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCVI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. C――――, at Bath._ - - _Gloucester, Feb. 5, 1742._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -TO shew you how willing I am to comply with your request, and make -dear Mr. _C――――_ one of my close correspondents, I sit down this -evening to write an answer to your kind letter. What has been doing -lately, the transcript on the other side will shew you. Since the -writing of that, the blessed JESUS hath been wondrous kind. Yesterday -I preached three times, and visited a private society in the evening. -To-day I was enabled to preach three times, with great power. Here -is such an awakening in this country, as I never heard of, or saw in -these parts before: “The fields are white already unto harvest.” It is -pleasant to hear the people come and tell how GOD wrought upon them by -my unworthy ministry two years ago. The fruits of the Spirit are now -apparent in their lives and conversations. Letters from _Scotland_ -bring blessed tidings, as also from _Philadelphia_. O the blessed -effects of field-preaching! O that I was humble, that I was thankful! -Help me, my dear friend, to entreat the Redeemer to make me as a -little, _a very little child_. The beginning of next week I hope to -be at _Bath_; but cannot tell exactly the day. I thank my friends for -their kind intention to meet me, but I had rather avoid it: the less -parade the better. Let us stand still, and we shall see the salvation -of GOD. He will not bless what doth not come from himself. May the -LORD make me an _Israelite_ indeed, in whom is no allowed guile! I -am glad dear Mr. _T――――_ is coming. My hearty love to him. O that our -meeting may be blessed, and all three of us be made a flame of fire! -Dear Mr. _C――――_, I love you unfeignedly. I wish, above all things, -your soul may prosper. Good night. My soul is filled with JESUS’s love. -I am going to pray for you and yours, being, dear Mr. _C――――_, without -dissimulation, - - Yours most affectionately in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCXCVII. - - _To the Right Honourable the ――――._ - - _Thales, near Reading, Feb. 23, 1742._ - -AND does the dear ―――― know assuredly that JESUS hath died for him? -Sing, O heavens! Rejoice, O earth! I would join with angels and -archangels in singing “Glory to GOD on high.” Welcome, my ――――, into -the world of new creatures. You are infinitely more happy than those -who have lately been preferred, and kissed his Majesty’s hand. JESUS -hath holden out his golden scepter, and given you a patent for eternal -life. Methinks I hear your ―――― now saying, “I account the reproach of -CHRIST, of more value than all the riches of _Egypt_.” - - _Be gone, vain world, my heart resign, - For I can be no longer thine; - A nobler, a diviner guest, - Hath took possession of my breast._ - -Well may your ―――― say, “you have been in a dream.” When GOD first -shewed me that I must be a new creature, I awaked as it were, into -a new world. I stood quite amazed. I was astonished to think, what a -deep sleep the world around me was in. Thought I, O that I was made -instrumental to some of them! The LORD heard my prayer. He has sent -me to awaken the dear man I am now writing to. Not unto me, O GOD, -not unto me, but to thy free grace and rich mercy be all the glory! -With your Lordship’s letter to-day, came several others from different -parts, all with glad tidings of great joy. O that I was humble and -thankful! Why me, LORD, why me? Surely I will join with your ―――― in -saying, not because I chose GOD, but GOD (O infinitely ♦condescending -majesty!) did chuse me. What shall we render to the glorious -_Emmanuel_? Methinks I hear your ―――― saying, “Behold, LORD, -henceforward I look upon myself as a steward, and not as a proprietor -of thy manifold gifts; I will live no longer to myself, but to -him that died for me.” Amen, LORD JESUS, amen and amen! Be pleased -to excuse the defects of this, being written upon the road. I am -now going to _London_. There has been a great awakening lately in -_Gloucestershire_. I rejoice to hear that the lady ―――― is so well -disposed. May a church be always in your ―――― house; and every one of -your ―――― family be made a living member of the houshold of faith! No -greater thing can be desired in your behalf by, my ――――, - - Your ―――― most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘conscending’ replaced with ‘condescending’ - - - LETTER CCCXCVIII. - - _To the Right Honourable Lady M―――― H――――._ - - _Thales, (near Reading) Feb. 23, 1742._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -I Am now upon the road to _London_. This morning your acceptable -letter came to hand. Though somewhat wearied, I would fain answer -it before I retire to rest. Blessed be GOD who causes your Ladyship -to be never less alone, than when alone. O Madam, what a comforter is -the Holy Ghost? What sweet company is JESUS CHRIST? What a privilege -is it to have fellowship with the great Three-One? A world lying in -wickedness knows nothing of it. Every thing yields comfort when the -blessed Spirit breathes upon it. Even this scribble, from the chief -of sinners, from one who is less than the least of all saints, shall -again refresh your soul, if JESUS speaks the word. Amazed am I, that -GOD should work by my hands. But JESUS is love. He yet delights to -honour me. I have lately seen the Redeemer riding in his strength, -and getting himself the victory in poor sinners hearts. Letters from -abroad inform me of the same. O that our glorious JESUS may set the -world in a flame of love! Hasten that time, O blessed JESUS: O let -thy kingdom come! I have heard from my dear Orphans to-day. They -have been reduced to straits; but the LORD hath stirred up a wealthy -friend or two to assist them. The everlasting GOD reward all their -benefactors! I find there has been a fresh awakening among them. I am -informed, that twelve negroes, belonging to a planter lately converted -at the Orphan-house, are savingly brought home to JESUS CHRIST. This -will rejoice your Ladyship’s heart. I am glad to hear that the work -goes on in _Scotland_. The LORD, I trust, will ripen your soul apace -for glory. He hath various ways of perfecting his saints. Methinks -I see your Ladyship sitting in your chair, and ravished with the -Redeemer’s beauty day by day. Sometimes you are as it were washing his -feet with your tears; at other times sitting by faith at his feet, and -hearing or reading his word. Sometimes your heart is too big to speak; -then again, out of the abundance of your heart, your mouth poureth -forth hallelujahs. Sometimes you are lost in wonder; at all times -longing to be dissolved and to be with CHRIST; for, when you hear him -say, “Rise up, my love, and come away,” - - _Your heart would fain outfly the wind, - And leave all earthly loves behind._ - -This, I trust, is the life your Ladyship lives. This is life indeed. -They who live otherwise, are dead whilst they live. They call -for our compassion and prayers; for who hath made the difference? -Distinguishing grace! O the unsearchable riches of CHRIST? I could -speak of him for ever; but it grows late; nature calls for rest. - - _O when shall I in endless day, - For ever chase dark sleep away; - And hymns with the celestial quire - Incessant sing, and never tire?_ - -Come, LORD JESUS, come quickly! The LORD be with your spirit, and -abundantly bless both you, Mr. _H――――_, and your child. Indeed I do -not forget your Ladyship; your last should not have remained so long -unanswered, but it came only to-day into the hands of, honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER ♦CCCXCIX. - - ♦ ‘CCCXCXIX’ replaced with ‘CCCXCIX’ - - _To Mr. Thomas N――――, at New-York._ - - _London, Feb. 26, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -I Have herewith sent you a parcel. Be pleased to read the letters, -and send them as directed. I received your kind letter, dated in -_December_, and thank you for all kindnesses shewn to the poor orphans. -The LORD JESUS will richly reward you. Before yours came, the LORD had -given me an enlarged heart, and unfeigned love and freedom to converse -with all his dear children, of whatever denomination. I talk freely -with the Messrs. _W――――_’s, though we widely differ in a certain -point. Most talk of a catholic spirit; but it is only till they have -brought people into the pale of their own church. This is downright -sectarianism, not catholicism. How can I act consistently, unless I -receive and love all the children of GOD, whom I esteem to be such, of -whatever denomination they may be? Why should we dispute when there is -no probability of convincing? I think this is not giving up the faith, -but fulfilling our LORD’s new command, “Love one another:” and our -love is but feigned, unless it produces proper effects. I am persuaded, -the more the love of GOD is shed abroad in our hearts, the more all -narrowness of spirit will subside and give way: besides, so far as -we are narrow spirited, we are uneasy. Prejudices, jealousies, and -suspicions make the soul miserable, so far as they are entertained. -But enough of this: my dear brother _N――――_ is of my mind. Only let me -give you one caution: Take heed that your getting acquainted with any -new set of Christians, does not lead you insensibly to despise others -of your old acquaintance. Watch, and deal very tenderly with all; -otherwise you will grow reserved and artful, and lose a simple, open, -guileless, _Israelitish_ spirit, before you are aware. There needs -a close adherence to the motions of the Holy Spirit, and a constant -watching over the corruptions of our own hearts, in order that we -may walk before GOD as very little children. O that I was a little -child indeed! JESUS can make me one. My dear brother, I thank you for -your kind invitation. GOD willing, I shall accept it, if ever I see -_New-York_. But I think Providence calls me once more to _Scotland_. -I have been lately plowing up some fallow ground, and now preach -twice every day. The LORD does indeed bless the word, and gives me to -rejoice in the felicity of his chosen. Be so kind now and then to drop -a line to my dear orphan-family. As opportunity offers, and the LORD -gives freedom, you shall hear from, dear brother _N――――_, - - Yours most affectionately in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCC. - - _To Miss ―――― ――――, at Edinburgh._ - - _London, Feb. 27, 1742._ - _Dear Miss_, - -I Did not receive your letter till this night. Whilst I was reading it, -my heart grew warm with thankfulness to that GOD, who, I trust, by his -almighty Spirit hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous -light. In his light you now see light. Do you not, dear Miss _W――――_, -find what I said to be true, “That JESUS CHRIST is the fairest among -ten thousands.” Is he not altogether lovely? Henceforth you may well -say, - - _I bid this world of noise and shew, - With all its flattering snares, adieu._ - -The greater advances you make in the divine life, the more you will -see what a dream you and the polite world have been in. And O the -distinguishing grace of GOD to you! Methinks I hear you calling on -angels and archangels to join in praising our common LORD. Well may -you say, “You are not henceforth your own:” No, dear Miss, let JESUS -have your whole heart. Let his blood, his wounds be continually -before you. GOD forbid that you should now glory, save in the cross -of CHRIST, by whom the world is crucified to you, and you unto the -world. Pity the poor christless creatures about you. Pray for them, -as the Holy Spirit gives you freedom. Tell them of the love of JESUS. -They need no other motive. This, backed with almighty power, must -break the most hardened heart. With much pleasure I reflect on the -blessed consolations I have been favoured with, whilst explaining -the scriptures to you and your honoured relations. O that not one may -remain unconverted! May JESUS look on them; then will they look on him -and be saved. Blessed be GOD for sending me to _Scotland_, if it was -only to bring you home. Ere long I hope to visit your country again; -and then, O that I may see you all meek, humble, heavenly-minded, -close followers of the bleeding Lamb! Thanks be to GOD, he hath -directed me to a wife, who was once gay, but now with you can sing, - - I. - _Come, Saviour JESUS, from above, - Assist me with thy heavenly grace; - Withdraw my heart from worldly love, - And for thyself prepare the place._ - - II. - _O let thy sacred presence fill, - And set my longing spirit free; - Which pants to have no other love, - But night and day to feast on Thee._ - - III. - _That path with humble speed I’ll seek, - Wherein my Saviour’s footsteps shine; - Nor will I hear, nor will I speak - Of any other love but thine._ - - IV. - _To Thee my ling’ring soul aspires; - To Thee I offer all my vows; - Keep me from vain and false desires, - My GOD, my Saviour, and my spouse._ - - V. - _Wealth, honour, or whatever else - This transitory world can give, - Tempt as you will, my heart repels, - To CHRIST alone resolved to live._ - - VI. - _Thee I can love, and thee alone, - With inward joy and holy bliss; - To find thou tak’st me for thy own, - O what a happiness is this!_ - -Dear Miss, whilst I am writing, the love of JESUS fills my soul. I -have been talking to night of his love to poor sinners. O that his -spirit may break afresh upon your soul when you are reading this! I -must now commend you to the Redeemer’s care. In the world you shall -have tribulation; be not afraid, JESUS hath overcome the world.――I -have many letters before me unread; but I could not help writing this -long one to you. Accept it as a token of unfeigned regard for the good -of your precious soul, and depend on the prayers of, dear Miss _W――――_, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. C――――._ - - _London, March 4, 1742._ - _My dear Friend and Brother_, - -I Remember my promise. You are to be one of my close correspondents. -I am unworthy to write to any; but love, the love of JESUS will -constrain me frequently to write to you. I hope you are not offended, -because you did not see me in _Bath_ again. The glorious _Emmanuel_ -pointed out my way hither. Since I came (O amazing goodness!) he has -been wonderfully kind to me, and to his people. I am much assisted -daily, in preaching to poor sinners the unsearchable riches of CHRIST. -Life and power fly all around, and the Redeemer is getting himself -the victory daily in many hearts. Letters from abroad give me glorious -accounts. In _New-England_, the work goes on amazingly. In _Scotland_, -the awakening is greater and greater. The spirit of GOD has been -striving among the little orphans in _Georgia_, and in _Carolina_ I -hear that twelve negroes belonging to a planter, converted at the -Orphan-house, are savingly brought home to JESUS CHRIST. Indeed the -LORD is about to do great things. “Blessed are the eyes that see the -things which we see; blessed are the ears that hear the things that we -hear;” blessed are those that the LORD employs as his own children, to -bring about his great designs. O that my dear Mr. _C――――_ may be made -a flaming fire, and a spiritual father to thousands! Dear Mr. _T――――_, -who was so kind as to come and see me last night, I trust is coming on. -I hope both you and him will experience a solid establishment in the -grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. There is no rest here, no true solid -lasting rest, till we come to this. Our hearts are deceitful above -all things. We seek rest in outward things. We change our places, -circumstances, and stations;――but if JESUS loves us, he will put a -thorn in the place where we would fain nestle. A soul that has had -some awakenings, and been wandring from CHRIST, is like _Noah_’s dove -which could find no rest for the sole of its foot, till it came back -to the ark again. This ark is CHRIST, and when we are safely locked -in there, and the soul hath received an abiding witness, then out of -the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. This is the reason why -JESUS bid his disciples to wait for the promise of the Father. Filled -with this, the woman of _Samaria_ could not but call on others to come -and see. And were we but animated, led and influenced by this spirit, -what a blessed union would there be among all the churches of JESUS -CHRIST? It is a want of more of this, that now at present disunites -us. I despair therefore of a greater union, till a greater measure -of the spirit be poured from on high. Hence, therefore, I am resolved -simply to preach the gospel of CHRIST, and leave others to quarrel -by and with themselves. To contend, where there is no probability -of convincing, only feeds and adds fuel to an unhallow’d fire, -which a misguided zeal kindles in the heart. Love, forbearance, -long-suffering, and frequent prayer to your dear LORD JESUS, is the -best way to extinguish and put it out. O love, true, simple, christian, -undissembled love, whither art thou fled! The language of my heart -is,――But whither am I going? You see, my friend, how freely I write. -The blessed JESUS warms and fills me, whilst I am writing. I know, -though I am unworthy, you will send me a line in return. Methinks -I could wash your feet. Methinks, I long to see your shackles drop -off, and your soul free for the uninterrupted service of the best of -masters. Faith in his bloody wounds is the only means. LORD, evermore -give my dear friend and his wife living faith, which may purify their -hearts, enable them to overcome the world, and will work by love! The -LORD make you both as little children before him! This is the prayer -of, dear Mr. _C――――_, - - Yours affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCII. - - _To Mr. A――――._ - - _London, March 4, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. A――――_, - -I Received your comfortable letter concerning the dear lambs at -_Heriot_’s hospital. I pray GOD give you grace to feed them, that they -may grow in grace as they grow in years, and make perpetual advances -in the knowledge of JESUS CHRIST. Be pleased to salute them from -me, in the kindest manner. Entreat them, O exhort them to remember -their Creator in the days of their youth, and to keep close by his -wounded side. Tell them, dear Sir, from time to time, of the power and -efficacy of his all-atoning blood: it purifies the heart, overcomes -the world, and fills the believer with joy unspeakable and full of -glory. Watch over their dear souls day by day, and wait closely upon -the LORD yourself, that you may be taught of him to feed his lambs. -It is a work of the utmost importance. No less than infinite wisdom -can be sufficient for you; but if any man lack wisdom, let him ask -it from above; GOD giveth liberally to the lovers of his dear Son, -and upbraideth not. Dear Sir, GOD is love. He hath loved me, and -is pleased to work by me more and more. At home, and abroad, JESUS -CHRIST rides on gloriously. I hope, at my return to _Scotland_, to -see greater things than ever. When it shall be, I know not yet. GOD’s -people must pray me to them. With difficulty I get time to write this. -I once more salute you and the dear lambs, and am, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― K――――, at Exon._ - - _London, March 6, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Now snatch a few moments to answer your kind letter. As yet, I have -no intimation from providence in respect to coming into your parts. -The cloud at present doth not seem to move that way. So many places -want supplies, that I could wish I had a thousand lives and tongues. -JESUS CHRIST should have them all. Only I am astonished, that the LORD -of the harvest should send out such a worthless labourer, or rather -loiterer as I am. But his grace is free, like himself infinite; -“For to me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace -given, that I should preach to poor sinners the unsearchable riches -of CHRIST.” Blessed be GOD, I do not preach in vain. The accounts -from _New-England_, _Scotland_, and _Carolina_, are surprizing. In -_London_, the word of the LORD runs and is glorified. Every day we see -the Redeemer’s stately steps. I have not time, dear Sir, to tell you -what great things our great master is doing for his people, and yet I -believe we shall see greater things than these. From _Georgia_ also, -I have great accounts. The spirit of the LORD hath been breathing upon -the orphans. I thank you, dear Sir, for your intended benefaction, -and kind invitation. If ever our dear LORD calls me your way, I shall -accept it: though I am utterly unworthy to come under any one’s roof, -but more especially that JESUS should come under the roof of the house -of my soul.――But JESUS is love. That his love may be abundantly shed -abroad in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, is the hearty prayer of, dear -Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant unknown, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCIV. - - _To Mr. G―――― H――――, in Gloucester._ - - _London, March, 12, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. H――――_, - -BY no means leave off reading to the society. It is not taking too -much upon you, or going out of your depth. The cause of your so much -as thinking to decline, is not good. The more unworthy you are, the -more glory will you give to a glorious Redeemer: the greater sinner -you are, the more feelingly will you read of, and recommend the -glorious Ransom paid for sinners. Go on, my dear man; venture boldly -to the throne of grace; fear not.――GOD will heal our backslidings; -he loves us freely. JESUS hath been my glorious Saviour. I would -have mentioned this affair of the society in my last, but I was then -ignorant of it.――My dear wife has written to dear Mrs. _H――――_. How -does the dear woman as to spirituals? I do not despair of seeing you -both good christians. JESUS is almighty. Go to him just as you are. -The LORD be with you both! I suppose you have seen the letter sent -to dear M. _C――――_ by brother _S――――_. My tender love to him, and all -that love the blessed _Emmanuel_. I have seen Mr. _J――――_. The LORD is -wonderfully good to me. Pray send a line to, dear Sir, - - Yours affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCV. - - _To Miss R――――._ - - _London, March 18, 1742._ - _Dear Miss_, - -I Am yet of opinion, there is mercy and love laid up for you in the -heart of the blessed JESUS. You look backward, instead of forward. You -look into yourself, instead of looking up to Him, who is mighty and -willing to save. O that you may have strength to go to him just as you -are! You would then be delivered from your bondage. The case of the -poor _Syrophœnician_ woman may give you comfort. How did the Lamb of -GOD seem as it were to turn lion? How did he seem to turn a deaf ear -to her complaints? And yet heard and loved her all the while. Why may -not you believe? He will yet say to you, “Be it unto you even as thou -wilt.” I fear some tell you, that it is well to doubt. Indeed they -are mistaken. Dear Miss, expect great things from JESUS CHRIST. “He -is able to do abundantly for you above what you can ask or think.” His -name, his nature is Love. Fear not; be not faithless, but believing. -Wait, and you shall yet see the salvation of GOD. In JESUS there is -plenteous redemption. That you may feel the full power of his blood, -prays, dear Miss, - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCVI. - - _To Mr. W――――, in Bristol._ - - _London, April 6, 1742._ - _My dear, yea very dear Brother_, - -YOU must needs think, that your kind letter gave me no small pleasure. -Glory be to GOD for that rich love wherewith he hath loved you! Surely -JESUS CHRIST will be now exceeding precious to your dear soul. What -does he now require of you, but to walk humbly, closely, and with a -child-like simplicity before him? He hath followed you, as well as -prevented you with his mercies, and would suffer nothing to take you -out of his hands. Satan hath desired you, satan has sifted you as -wheat; but JESUS, that friend of sinners, hath prayed for you, and -therefore your faith hath not failed. The LORD hath looked upon my -dear _Samuel_. Methinks I see him weeping tears of love, and saying, -“_Speak_, LORD, _thy servant heareth_ now.” - -I doubt not but many will reproach you for your past backsliding, and -question your future stability. Let all serve to humble you in the -dust, and drive you to the loving JESUS for refuge. “In him,” surely -shall my dear friend say, “I have righteousness and strength.” Look up -to him, and you shall be delivered from, nay, made more than conqueror -over every temptation. He will fight your battles for you, and crown -you when you have done. Dear Mr. _W――――_, the love of JESUS now -swallows up my soul. I see him more and more lovely every day. In -JESUS there is plenteous redemption. He came, that we might have life, -nay that we might have it more abundantly. O what a blessing is it to -be redeemed from a vain conversation, and from this present evil world. -O that every poor sinner felt it! Then would his children agree in -one, and divisions would be at an end. Blessed be our LORD, there is -a greater prospect of union than ever. It is what my soul longs after, -and labours for. It is a great pity that poor pilgrims should fall -out in their way to heaven; but this will be, till we get more of -the divine spirit. Pray we therefore for a great effusion of the -Holy Ghost. Blessed be GOD, we feel the Holy Ghost daily in our -congregations. It surprizes me to see what a company of settled, solid -christians are amongst us. The work goes on daily. This morning, how -did JESUS pierce and melt poor sinners hearts? Amazing accounts are -brought from abroad.――Fresh awakenings in many places at home. Does -not your soul long to tell sinners, JESUS is Love. I am glad to hear -you are so active. Go on in the strength of the triumphing Lamb. My -heart is warm. Welcome home again, my dear friend, welcome to JESUS -your LORD and your GOD. Pray write often, dear Mr. _W――――_, to - - Your most affectionate friend, brother and servant - in the glorious _Emmanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCVII. - - _To Mr. O――――, in Leominster._ - - _London, April 6, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -YOUR letter gave me uncommon pleasure, and confirm’d me more in -the opinion, that where our LORD gives a will, he will also give an -opportunity of glorifying his great and most adorable name. Indeed, -I believe there is such a work begun, as neither we nor our fathers -have heard of. The beginnings are amazing; how unspeakably glorious -will the end be! From _New-England_, fresh and surprizing glad tidings -are sent; the LORD takes poor sinners there by hundreds, I may say by -thousands. In _Scotland_, the fruits of my poor labours are abiding -and apparent. In _Wales_, I hear the word of the LORD runs and is -glorified, as also in many places in _England_. In _London_, our -Saviour is doing great things daily; we have many dear growing -children among us, who can say, “Our fellowship is with the Father and -the Son.” We scarce know what it is to have a meeting without tears. -Our LORD always meets with us. My dear brother, I rejoice to hear that -you are helped in your work. Let this encourage you; go on, go on; the -more we do, the more we may do for JESUS. I sleep and eat but little, -and am constantly employed from morning till midnight, and yet I walk -and am not weary, I run and am not faint. My strength is daily renewed. -My bow abides in strength, and my hands are upholden by the arms of -the mighty GOD of Jacob. O free grace! It fires my soul, and makes me -long to do something more for JESUS. It is true indeed, I want to go -home; but here are so many souls ready to perish for lack of knowledge, -that I am willing to tarry below, as long as my master hath work for -me to do.――When I shall come your way, I cannot determine.――All I say -is, I will come when the LORD gives me leave. At present my call is in -_London_, where I propose staying for some time. My wife came up last -_Saturday_, and joins with me in wishing you all manner of success. I -am, my dear brother, - - Yours most affectionately in our glorious _Emmanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCVIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, in Gloucestershire._ - - _London, April 8, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. J―――― C――――_, - -YOURS came to hand last night. I rejoice to hear that the LORD -is with you, and that he was pleased to bless my poor labours in -_Gloucestershire_. I would have you to dispute as little as possible. -Awakened souls should be told to look continually to the LORD JESUS. -The more you are acquainted with CHRIST, and the more deeply you drink -into his spirit, the more solid you will grow. Fear not because of -your present trials; “the LORD is thy GOD; he will never leave thee -nor forsake thee.” Cast all your care upon him, he careth for you. -Your wife’s illness shall work for good. The things I promised, are -provided and shall be sent speedily. Brother _H――――_ will be with -you, GOD willing, next week; I pray GOD that his coming may be in the -fulness of the blessing of the gospel of peace! Our LORD is with us -much here. I preach twice daily. Our society grows. My master fills -me with his presence, and continually meets with us. My tender love -awaits all the society. Be strong in the LORD, and in the power of his -might. Seek after a nearer conformity to the blessed JESUS. Grow in -grace; and as you are enabled, dear _John_, pray for - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCIX. - - _To Captain G――――, in Philadelphia._ - - _London, April 22, 1742._ - _Dear Brother G――――_, - -I Hope this will find you very happy in the love of CHRIST. I was glad -to hear you had so good a time, before our friends left you. I wish -you no less, than that you may be filled with all the fulness of -GOD. We have had a glorious _Easter_, or rather a _Pentecost_. JESUS -CHRIST is risen indeed. I have been preaching in _Moorfields_, and our -Saviour carries all before us. Nought can resist his conquering blood. -It would have delighted you, to have seen the poor sinners flock from -the booths, to see JESUS lifted up on the pole of the gospel. I have -received many tickets from young apprentices, &c. &c. Our society -goes on wonderfully well. Every day we hear of fresh conquests. GOD’s -children are expecting very great things. I believe they will not be -disappointed of their hope. But I am in haste. Your wife was well the -last time I saw her. Brother _S――――_ and his wife have been to see -her.――My dear wife and brother _S――――_ kindly salute you, and all -that love our glorious _Emmanuel_. Pray write a line to, dear brother -_G――――_, - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCX. - - _To the Reverend Mr. J――――, in Yorkshire._ - - _London, April 22, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Thank you and your wife for your kind benefaction. Our Saviour, I -believe, will take it kindly at your hands. I rejoice that the work -of our common master is carried on in _Yorkshire_. We see greater -things than ever at _London_. The awakening is quite fresh. I never -was strengthened more. Every day, poor sinners are brought home to -JESUS CHRIST. Our people are filled as with new wine; it seems to be a -_Pentecost_. I have preached six or seven times in _Moorfields_, these -holidays. It would rejoice you to see the people flock from satan’s -booths to hear the gospel of the Son of GOD. The people seem to have -such a spirit of supplication poured out upon them, that I believe -we shall see great things. I am often weak in body, but, as my work -requires, I am proportionably strengthened in the inner man. Was -there ever such a sinner as I am? Was there ever such a Saviour as -my Saviour? - - _Low at thy feet, O JESUS, let me lie, - And love and praise to all eternity._ - -I salute all that love the LORD JESUS in sincerity, and am, dear -brother _J――――_, - - Yours most affectionately in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXI. - - _To Mr. L――――._ - - _London, May 11, 1742._ - -WITH this, I send you a few out of the many notes I have received from -persons, who were convicted, converted, or comforted in _Moorfields_, -during the late holidays. For many weeks, I found my heart much -pressed to determine to venture to preach there at this season, when, -if ever, satan’s children keep up their annual rendezvous. I must -inform you, that _Moorfields_ is a large spacious place, given, as -I have been told, by one _Madam Moore_, on purpose for all sorts of -people to divert themselves in. For many years past, from one end -to the other, booths of all kinds have been erected, for mountebanks, -players, puppet shows, and such like. With a heart bleeding with -compassion for so many thousands led captive by the devil at his will, -on _Whit-Monday_, at six o’clock in the morning, attended by a large -congregation of praying people, I ventured to lift up a standard -amongst them in the name of JESUS of _Nazareth_. Perhaps there were -about ten thousand in waiting, not for me, but for satan’s instruments -to amuse them.――Glad was I to find, that I had for once as it were got -the start of the devil. I mounted my field pulpit, almost all flocked -immediately around it. I preached on these words, “As _Moses_ lifted -up the serpent in the wilderness, so shall the son of man be lifted -up, &c.” They gazed, they listened, they wept; and I believe that many -felt themselves stung with deep conviction for their past sins. All -was hushed and solemn. Being thus encouraged, I ventured out again -at noon; but what a scene! The fields, the whole fields seemed, in a -bad sense of the word, all white, ready not for the Redeemer’s, but -Beelzebub’s harvest. All his agents were in full motion, drummers, -trumpeters, merry andrews, masters of puppet shows, exhibiters of wild -beasts, players, &c. &c. all busy in entertaining their respective -auditories. I suppose there could not be less than twenty or thirty -thousand people. My pulpit was fixed on the opposite side, and -immediately, to their great mortification, they found the number of -their attendants sadly lessened. Judging that like saint _Paul_, I -should now be called as it were to fight with beasts at _Ephesus_, I -preached from these words: “Great is _Diana_ of the _Ephesians_.” You -may easily guess, that there was some noise among -the craftsmen, and that I was honoured with having a few stones, dirt, -rotten eggs, and pieces of dead cats thrown at me, whilst engaged -in calling them from their favourite but lying vanities. My soul was -indeed among lions; but far the greatest part of my congregation, -which was very large, seemed for a while to be turned into lambs. This -encouraged me to give notice, that I would preach again at six o’clock -in the evening. I came, I saw, but what――thousands and thousands more -than before if possible, still more deeply engaged in their unhappy -diversions; but some thousands amongst them waiting as earnestly -to hear the gospel. This satan could not brook. One of his choicest -servants was exhibiting, trumpeting on a large stage; but as soon as -the people saw me in my black robes and my pulpit, I think all to a -man left him and ran to me. For a while I was enabled to lift up my -voice like a trumpet, and many heard the joyful sound. GOD’s people -kept praying, and the enemy’s agents made a kind of a roaring at some -distance from our camp. At length they approached nearer, and the -merry andrew, (attended by others, who complained that they had taken -many pounds less that day on account of my preaching) got upon a man’s -shoulders, and -advancing near the pulpit attempted to slash me with a long heavy whip -several times, but always with the violence of his motion tumbled down. -Soon afterwards, they got a recruiting serjeant with his drum, &c. to -pass through the congregation. I gave the word of command, and ordered -that way might be made for the king’s officer. The ranks opened, while -all march’d quietly through, and then closed again. Finding those -efforts to fail, a large body quite on the opposite side assembled -together, and having got a large pole for their standard, advanced -towards us with steady and formidable steps, till they came very near -the skirts of our hearing, praying, and almost undaunted congregation. -I saw, gave warning, and prayed to the captain of our salvation for -present support and deliverance. He heard and answered; for just as -they approached us with looks full of resentment, I know not by what -accident, they quarrelled among themselves, threw down their staff -and went their way, leaving however many of their company behind, who -before we had done, I trust were brought over to join the besieged -party. I think I continued in praying preaching and singing, (for the -noise was too great at times to preach) about three hours. We then -retired to the tabernacle, with my pockets full of notes from persons -brought under concern, and read them amidst the praises and spiritual -acclamations of thousands, who joined with the holy angels in -rejoicing that so many sinners were snatched, in such an unexpected, -unlikely place and manner, out of the very jaws of the devil. This -was the beginning of the tabernacle society.――Three hundred and fifty -awakened souls were received in one day, and I believe the number of -notes exceeded a thousand; but I must have done, believing you want to -retire to join in mutual praise and thanksgiving to GOD and the Lamb, -with - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXII. - - _To the same._ - - _London, May 15, 1742._ - _My dear Friend_, - -FRESH matter of praise; bless ye the LORD, for he hath triumphed -gloriously. The battle that was begun on _Monday_, was not quite over -till _Wednesday_ evening, though the scene of action was a little -shifted. Being strongly invited, and a pulpit being prepared for me by -an honest quaker, a coal merchant, I ventured on _Tuesday_ evening to -preach at _Mary le bon fields_, a place almost as much frequented by -boxers, gamesters, and such like, as _Moor-fields_. A vast concourse -was assembled together, and as soon as I got into the field pulpit, -their countenance bespoke the enmity of their hearts against the -preacher. I opened with these words――“I am not ashamed of the gospel -of CHRIST, for it is the power of GOD unto salvation to every one that -believeth.” I preached in great jeopardy; for the pulpit being high, -and the supports not well fixed in the ground, it tottered every time -I moved, and numbers of enemies strove to push my friends against the -supporters, in order to throw me down. But the Redeemer stayed my soul -on himself, therefore I was not much moved, unless with compassion for -those to whom I was delivering my master’s message, which I had reason -to think, by the strong impressions that were made, was welcome to -many. But satan did not like thus to be attacked in his strong-holds, -and I narrowly escaped with my life: for as I was passing from the -pulpit to the coach, I felt my wig and hat to be almost off. I turned -about, and observed a sword just touching my temples. A young rake, -as I afterwards found, was determined to stab me, but a gentleman, -seeing the sword thrusting near me, struck it up with his cane, and -so the destined victim providentially escaped. Such an attempt excited -abhorrence; the enraged multitude soon seized him, and had it not been -for one of my friends, who received him into his house, he must have -undergone a severe discipline. The next day, I renewed my attack in -_Moor-fields_; but would you think it? after they found that pelting, -noise, and threatnings would not do, one of the _merry Andrews_ got up -into a tree very near the pulpit, and shamefully exposed his nakedness -before all the people. Such a beastly action quite abashed the serious -part of my auditory; whilst hundreds of another stamp, instead of -rising up to pull down the unhappy wretch, expressed their approbation -by repeated laughs. I must own at first it gave me a shock; I thought -satan had now almost outdone himself; but recovering my spirits, I -appealed to all, since now they had such a spectacle before them, -whether I had wronged human nature in saying, after pious _Bishop -Hall_, “that man, when left to himself, is half a devil and half a -beast;” or as the great Mr. _Law_ expressed himself, “a motley mixture -of the beast and devil.”――Silence and attention being thus gained, I -concluded with a warm exhortation, and closed our festival enterprizes, -in reading fresh notes that were put up, praising and blessing GOD -amidst thousands at the tabernacle, for what he had done for precious -souls, and on account of the deliverances he had wrought out for me -and his people. I could enlarge; but being about to embark in the -_Mary and Ann_, for _Scotland_, I must hasten to subscribe myself, - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - -_P. S._ I cannot help adding, that several little boys and girls who -were fond of sitting round me on the pulpit, while I preached, and -handing to me peoples notes, though they were often pelted with eggs, -dirt, &c. thrown at me, never once gave way: but on the contrary, -every time I was struck, turned up their little weeping eyes, and -seemed to wish they could receive the blows for me. GOD make them in -their growing years great and living martyrs for him, who out of the -mouth of babes and sucklings perfects praise! - - - LETTER CCCCXIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. M――――, in the Isle of Man._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, bound to Scotland, May 26, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Received your letter on _Saturday_ last, and felt great concern on -my soul, while perusing it. One thing especially pleased me; I found -by the contents, that a report I had lately heard concerning you was -false; for I had heard, that the bishop seeing your zeal, and finding -his opposition had inflamed, at last had ordered the clergy to open -the church doors for you, and that now you had done with appearing -openly in the defence of the glorious Gospel. Blessed be GOD this is -not true! Though I find, both you and your people have been greatly -discouraged. I see no way of extricating yourself, but by acting up to -the dictates of your own conscience, and leaving the consequences to -the great head and king of the church. You find, dear Sir, a sensible -withdrawing of the spirit ever since you gave way. It would not have -been so, had you obeyed GOD rather than man. Up then, and be doing, -and the LORD will be yet with you. If you cannot preach freely in the -_Isle of Man_, go whithersoever the LORD shall be pleased to lead you. -Our commission is very extensive: “Go into all the world, and preach -the gospel to every creature.” We want labourers much in _England_. -If our ascended Saviour hath given you popular gifts, and freedom and -authority in speaking without notes, you need not fear. He will assist -you from time to time, and make you a blessing to many souls. Your -being a minister of the established church, will be an advantage, and -your age also will give you yet more authority; but an unction from -the Holy One of _Israel_ is the best qualification; I would therefore, -dear Sir (if such a one as I, am capable of advising) by all means -persuade you to humble yourself before the great bishop of your soul, -and ask him again and again what he would have you to do? I am apt to -think, he will not restore to you the comforts of the Holy Ghost, or -stablish you with his free spirit, ’till you give up yourself simply -to follow the dictates of his providence and spirit. Then let men or -devils say or do their worst. How can we know GOD’s power unless we -try it? Not that I would have you, dear friend, do any thing rashly. -No, “he that believeth doth not make haste.” Wait upon the LORD, -and he will certainly shew you what he would have you to do. I wonder -not that your brother’s love is grown cold. It is hard for one in his -station, unless he be thoroughly inured to contempt, and will give GOD -leave to act in his own way, to withstand a whole body of lukewarm, -prejudiced, envious, malignant clergy. These, have always been the -greatest opposers of true vital religion. These, were our Saviour’s -most bitter enemies. These, will be ours also, if we come forth in -his spirit, and preach by his power. But blessed be GOD, I can say -by happy experience, our glorious _Emmanuel_ will make us more than -conquerors over them all. He hath continually fought my battles for me, -and I am persuaded will do so to the end. Of late, I have seen more of -his power and goodness than ever, and I trust we shall yet see greater -things than these. I am now once more going to _Scotland_, and purpose -(GOD willing) the latter end of the year to embark for _America_. Pray -let me hear from you, and if possible let me have a personal interview. -I hope this will reach you. In the next, be pleased to tell me how -to direct, for I have forgotten. The LORD be with you. I wish you -abundant prosperity in the name of the exalted Redeemer, and am - - Your affectionate brother and servant, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXIV. - - _To Mr. S―――― M――――, in Gainsborough._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 26, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -YOUR letter dated _May 5th_ was very agreeable to me. I think it -savoured of a true Israelitish spirit, and therefore I find freedom -to send you a plain and simple answer. Who _J―――― H――――_ is, I cannot -tell. If he was converted by my unworthy ministry, or others by his -means, let our dear JESUS have all the glory. I shall know who they -are, at the great day. Mr. _P――――_ I know very well. I believe he is -a good man, but am not enough acquainted with his proceedings, either -wholly to commend or condemn them. Whether he preaches in public, or -converses only in a private manner, I know not. This one thing I know, -if he be sent of GOD, I wish him prosperity. The answer which our LORD -gave to those who forbad such as were casting out devils in his name, -because they followed not with them, makes me particularly cautious, -how I interrupt any one that seems to speak of JESUS with sincerity of -heart. As for his speaking so little against the church of England, I -cannot discommend him for that. I find it best to talk only of JESUS’s -blood, and the power of his Redemption, and not dwell much on outward -things or outward worship. When the woman of _Samaria_ asked our -LORD, “where men ought to worship,” he diverted the discourse from the -outward to the inward worship. “The worship of the Father in spirit -and in truth.” Some things may be wrong in the church of _England_, -and in this mixed state we must never expect to see a perfect church, -or a perfect man. It is therefore my constant aim to agree with all -the children of GOD, as far as I can, and not to quarrel though we -differ in some points. In civil society, one family does not differ -with another, because it hath not the same orders in every respect. -Would to GOD we observed the same rule in spirituals. The world falls -out enough with us; it is pity we should fall out among ourselves. My -brother, I have written to you out of the fulness of my heart; whether -I shall see your face in the flesh, I know not. At present, my call -is to _Scotland_.――If the cloud should move towards _Lincolnshire_, -my answer is, “LORD, lo I come!” I am quite confounded when I -think that such a wretch as I should ever be employed in preaching -the everlasting gospel. I often fall down under a sense of GOD’s -distinguishing mercy, and with awful adoration am frequently made to -cry out, “Why me, LORD; why me?” O my brother, help me to praise the -Lamb of GOD, that taketh away the sins of the world. A wonderful work -is carried on both at home and abroad. I shall be glad to hear from -you again. Be pleased to direct as before. I am, in the bowels of -JESUS CHRIST, - - Your affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXV. - - _To Mr. J―――― B――――, in London._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 27, 1742._ - _My dear Brother B――――_, - -YOUR letter was sweet to my heart. Business prevented my answering it -on shore. Our Saviour is pleased at this time to give me leisure and -freedom. I will now endeavour to answer it on board. I need not tell -you, I love you. GOD has often bore witness to our fellowship, by -giving us his presence, and filling us as with new wine. What has -happened of late to disunite, will in the end, I am persuaded, only -promote a closer union. “Out of the eater will come forth meat, and -out of the strong will come forth sweetness.” Blessed be our Saviour’s -free grace! I feel my heart more and more enlarged towards, and more -and more disposed to love and honour all denominations of believers, -than ever I experienced before. In all societies of christians under -heaven, there must necessarily be persons of a different standing in -the school of CHRIST. Those who are not solidly established in the -love of GOD, will fall too much in love with the outward form of their -particular church, be it what it will. But as the love of GOD gets -the ascendency, the more they will be like him and his holy angels, -and consequently rejoice when souls are brought to JESUS, whatever -instruments may be made use of for that purpose. If therefore some -that you and I know, are too confined (as I believe is too much the -case); if they do not preach more frequently, and abound more in good -works, I think it is for want of having their hearts more inflamed -with the love of GOD, and their graces kept in more constant exercise. -To stir up the gift of GOD that is in us, is an apostolical injunction; -and if we do not keep upon our watch we shall fall into a false -stillness. Nature loves ease; and as a blind zeal often prompts us to -speak too much, so tepidity and lukewarmness often cause us to speak -too little. Divine wisdom alone, is profitable to direct; and I would -be very cautious how I speak, least I should take too much upon me. I -love those you mention, from my soul; and all I can say is, “LORD, do -thou lead and guide both them and us.” We are blind helpless creatures. -I wish there was more confidence between us all; but I see that none -but the spirit of GOD can outwardly unite us, and therefore I have now -given it up into the Redeemer’s hand. Only this I pray, that I may be -one of the first and not the last in bringing back the king. If I have -at any time set improper bounds to the spirit of GOD, or grieved it -in his children, I desire to be very low, and to be broken hearted -for it. I am sure it hath not been done willingly. I must own, I have -sometimes opposed you, because I think you have made, and are yet -making, too much haste. You seem to be like-minded with those, who in -our Saviour’s time thought that the kingdom of GOD would then come: -but you know how our LORD checked them for it, and told them, “it was -not for them to know the particular times and seasons of his coming to -set up his kingdom.” I believe with you, that our glorious _Emmanuel_ -is about to do great things. But how, when, and where, I leave to his -divine, sovereign disposal. I desire strictly to mind the particular -plan assigned me; at the same time to look about, and see what others -the wonderful counsellor is pleased to employ in other districts: and -though they may differ from me in some points, I wish them abundant -prosperity in the name of our common LORD. I am of your mind with -respect to the church of _England_. This, this is the constant, -abiding, intense language of my heart; “LORD JESUS, let thy kingdom -come.” You see, my dear brother, how fully I write to you. It is -because I love you. O that we may be taught to bear one another’s -burdens, and so fulfil the law of CHRIST! May the LORD keep us all -from falling out in our way to heaven. Amen and amen! You and yours -will join heartily in the same petition, with - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXVI. - - _To the Rev. Mr. O――――, at Leominster._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 27, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Have not till now had time to answer your kind letter. I rejoice -abundantly in the use our dear LORD is beginning to make of you. May -he use and bless you ever more and more. Our LORD loves to encourage -faith. They that trust in him, shall find now as well as formerly, -that “it shall be given them in that hour what they shall speak.” -This I find true by happy experience, and am persuaded shall prove the -truth of it more and more. Since my last, the captain of our salvation -has carried me on to fresh conquest, and caused his people to rejoice -exceedingly in his great salvation. Our society is in great order. If -the LORD gives us a true catholic spirit, free from a party sectarian -zeal, we shall do well. I am sorry to hear that there is so much -narrowness among some of the brethren in _Wales_. Brother _H――――_ -complains sadly of it. I hope dear Mr. _O――――_ will be kept free, and -not fall into disputing about _Baptism_ or other non-essentials; for I -am persuaded, unless we all are content to preach CHRIST, and to keep -off from disputable things, wherein we differ, GOD will not bless us -long. If we act otherwise, however we may talk of a catholic spirit, -we shall only be bringing people over to our own party, and there -fetter them. I pray the LORD to keep dear Mr. _O――――_ and me from such -a spirit. Dear Sir, may the LORD be with you! Remember us poor but -willing pilgrims, especially him who is less than the least of all, -but - - Your affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXVII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. J―――― S――――, at Stockport._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 29, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Received your letter some time ago, but through multiplicity of -business could not possibly answer it on shore. I do not remember -seeing you at _London_; but if you love the Redeemer in sincerity, -and preach the gospel in the demonstration of the spirit and with -power, I wish you all possible success in the name of the LORD. As -for coming into your parts, it is intirely uncertain. My present call -is to _Scotland_. How my Master will dispose of me hereafter, I know -not. I simply desire to go whither he shall be pleased to call me. -I am amazed that he should call me any where, or employ me as his -ambassador to beseech poor sinners to be reconciled to GOD. But what -shall we say? I can only fall down at the feet of the Lamb, and cry, -Grace! grace! Of late the LORD hath done greater things for me, and -his church, than ever; and yet greater things I am persuaded he is -about to bring to pass. Dear Sir, help me at the throne of grace, and -as you seem to have a thirst for the Redeemer’s glory, recommend me to -the prayers of GOD’s people, being the chief of sinners, but, for the -Redeemer’s sake, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXVIII. - - _To the Rev. Mr. D――――, in Essex._ - - _May 29, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -YOUR letter lies by me, yet unanswered; the contents however have not -been forgotten before the LORD. Surely the days of your pilgrimage -will ere long be ended, and the star which you once saw, appear to -you again, and cause you to rejoice with exceeding great joy. I think -there is something very extraordinary in the LORD’s dealing with -you. I can only resolve it into the divine sovereignty, and say, -“even so, Father, for so it seemeth good in thy sight.” This is often -the language of my heart, with respect to GOD’s dealing with my own -soul. Many things our Saviour does to me, which I know not now. It is -sufficient that I shall know hereafter, and that I know thus far even -now, “that all things are working together for good.” Dear Mr. _D――――_, -indeed I love and pray for you. Our Saviour, I trust, will yet set -your feet in a large room, and enable you to run the way of his -commandments; - - _Thro’ winds, and clouds, and storms, he’ll gently clear the way; - Wait then his time, so shall this night soon end in joyous day._ - -My tender love await the flock at _D――――m_; I pray for them and you. -Our Saviour hath done great things of late in _London_. I believe he -will yet do more in _Scotland_. O my brother, forget not to pray for -the chief of sinners. - - Your truly affectionate friend, brother and servant - in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXIX. - - _To the Rev. Mr. C――――, at Bath._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 29, 1742._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -NOT want of love, but excess of business prevented my answering your -kind letter dated _April 6th_. In _London_ I had scarce time to eat -bread, or to take my natural rest. Our blessed Saviour, with his own -right hand got himself the victory in many hearts, and brought mighty -things to pass. I never saw the like before. I must renew my old -request, “Help, my dear friend, help me to be thankful.” I am now -going a second time to _Scotland_, and purpose, GOD willing, at the -latter end of the year to embark for _America_. My soul is a thirst -for the salvation of poor sinners. These words, “Go ye into all -the world, and preach the gospel to every creature, &c.” have been -particularly pressed upon my heart. O, dear Mr. _C――――_, if the -LORD has accounted us worthy, putting us into the ministry, how -careful should we be to make full proof thereof? GOD willing, when -I come on shore I will begin in earnest. For alas! _hactenus nihil -feci_.――Indeed I am ashamed of myself from the bottom of my heart. Was -not my Master’s love like himself, _infinite_, I should have been cast -off long before this time. But I find those whom he loves, he loves -to the end. Mr. _W――――_, myself, and others, are instances of this. -I hope our great Shepherd will now carry him in his arms, and not let -him to stay again. I have wrote to Mr. _T――――_ from on board.――If you -go to him, or labour elsewhere, that the blessed JESUS may be always -with you, is the hearty prayer of, dear Mr. _C――――_, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXX. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, in London._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 29, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -YOUR letter much affected me. I hope the contents have made the angels -to rejoice, and that before this time you have found rest in the -wounded Lamb. That GOD, who first spoke light out of darkness, I trust -is beginning to shine into your heart, and to perfect a new creation -in your soul. You are not the first, dear friend, by thousands, who -have thought themselves rich and increased in goods, not considering -they were poor and miserable and blind and naked. I suppose you can -now join with me in the following verses: - - I. - _Long did my soul in Jesu’s form - No comeliness nor beauty see; - His sacred name by others priz’d, - Was tasteless still and dead to me._ - - II. - _Men call’d me Christian, and my heart - On that delusion fondly stay’d; - Moral my hopes, my Saviour self, - ’Till mighty grace the cheat display’d._ - - III. - _Thanks to the hand that wak’d my dream, - That shew’d me wretched, naked, poor; - That sweetly led me to the Rock, - Where all salvation stands secure._ - - IV. - _Glad, I forsook my righteous pride, - My moral, tarnish’d, sinful dress, - Exchanged my dross away for CHRIST, - And found the robe of righteousness._ - -These lines, dear Sir, I think are very emphatical. I trust you can -now repeat them from your heart. If so, hail happy man! JESUS hath -washed you in his blood, and given you eternal life. You now then have -nothing to do, but to live to him, who hath lived and died for you, -and if necessary would die again for you with all his heart. Surely -our Saviour loves you, otherwise he would not have shewed you all -these things. I love you for his sake (though unknown); and if he hath -been pleased to work by my unworthy ministry, let him have all the -glory, and forget not to pray for the poor, weak instrument, who has -not forgotten to pray for you, being, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant, in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXI. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――, in Wales._ - - _On board the Mary and Ann, May 29, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -THOUGH I could not write to you on shore, yet I must not omit writing -to you on board. I am heartily sorry that such a narrow spirit -prevails in _Wales_. I have written to Mr. _H――――_. But what shall we -say? The Redeemer’s love alone can unite and keep together his flocks. -Disputing with bigots and narrow-spirited people will not do. I intend -henceforward to say less to them, and pray more and more to our LORD -for them. “LORD, enlarge their hearts,” is my continual prayer for -such, who are so streightened in their own bowels. Blessed be GOD, -this partition-wall is breaking down daily in some of our old friends -hearts in _London_. I exhort all to go where they can profit most. I -preach what I believe to be the truth, and then leave it to the spirit -of GOD to make the application. When we have done this, I think we -have gone to the utmost bounds of our commission. O my brother, I find -more and more, nothing but that wisdom, which is from above, can teach -us how to build up souls. I never was so much assisted in this kind of -work, as since I came to _London_ last. We have public societies twice -a week, and a general meeting for reading letters once a month. Our -LORD has been much with us. We seem to move on now in gospel dignity, -and are terrible as an army with banners. If the LORD inclines you, -a visit to _London_ would be very acceptable. Our people can now bear -searching more than formerly. I find that our LORD hath particularly -blessed you that way. We have had a most blessed funeral of one of -our sisters in CHRIST, and the awakening, I think, has been as great -as when I first came out, and abundantly more solid. The _Easter_ -Holidays were high days indeed. My wife doth not forget her friends in -_Wales_. But our LORD has seen fit to exercise her with exceeding -close inward trials. She and all with me most cordially salute you. I -expect great things in _Scotland_. If possible, at my return, I hope -to see you in _Wales_. But future things belong to GOD. Adieu. Forget -not to pray for - - Your affectionate brother pilgrim, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXII. - - _To Mr. A――――, in London._ - - _Edinburgh, June 4, 1742._ - _My dear Brother A――――_, - -FROM a heart overflowing with a sense of GOD’s love, I write you these -few lines. Yesterday our Saviour brought us hither. On board, I spent -most part of my time in secret prayer. Satan shot many of his fiery -darts against me. Our great _Michael_ gave me a shield of faith, by -which I was enabled to repel them all. As soon as I came on shore, the -holy spirit filled my soul. The LORD commanded people to receive me -and my fellow pilgrim into their houses. Our souls rejoiced in him. -The people were soon alarmed at my arrival. As soon as I came on shore -at _Leith_, many came blessing me, and weeping, took hold of me. About -four in the afternoon we came to _Edinburgh_. Great numbers followed -our coach, and almost catched me in their arms, as soon as I came out -of it. How did they weep for joy! It would have melted you down to -have seen them. When I came to my lodging, many dear friends came to -salute us in the name of the LORD. About seven o’clock I went to see -some persons of distinction, whose hearts the LORD reached, when I -was here last. Some were ready to faint with excess of joy: with these -I prayed and gave thanks. The Holy Ghost filled us with all joy and -peace in believing.――At eight I went to a nobleman’s house, where his -lady and several other dear friends received us with great gladness. -The cushions and bible were immediately brought. I gave a word of -exhortation. We sung, and prayed, and spent the remainder of the -evening most delightfully in talking of the things of GOD. When we -came home, we joined in blessing GOD’s holy name. Though late, I -scarce knew how to go to rest.――This morning I received glorious -accounts of the carrying on of the Mediator’s kingdom. The work of -GOD is beyond expression. Three of the little boys that were converted -when I was last here, came to me and wept, and begged me to pray for -and with them. A minister tells me, that scarce one is fallen back, -who was awakened, either among old or young. The serjeant, whose -letter, brother _C――――_ has, goes on well with his company. O my dear -brother, help me to praise the Lamb that sitteth upon the throne for -ever; and desire all the society to join with you. I believe within -these four months you will hear of very great things. Pray that I may -be very little in my own eyes, and not rob my dear Master of any part -of his glory. We do not forget you. Once a day we meet together and -pray for absent friends. He gives us leave, as it were, to ask of -him what we will, and promises never to leave or forsake us. For -the present, my dear brother, adieu! As opportunity offers, and if -possible every post, some or other of my dear friends shall hear, dear -brother _A――――_, from - - Your most affectionate, though most unworthy brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXIII. - - _To the Right Honourable Lord R――――._ - - _Edinburgh, June 4, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -YESTERDAY morning our glorious _Emmanuel_ brought us hither. Your -Lordship’s kind letter was put into my hands. I heartily sympathize -with your Lordship; but could not help rejoicing on your honoured -lady’s account, knowing she is now entered into her blessed Master’s -joy. Indeed, my Lord, I think, among christians, death hath not only -lost its sting, but its name. I never was so joyful as I am now at -the death of those who die in the LORD; and never was so reconciled -to living myself. My general language, when I hear of the saints -departure, is, “Let them go.” Lately at _London_ we had a sister in -CHRIST departed. Her last words were, “Holy, holy, holy!” she could -say no more here; but our Saviour sent for her to finish her song in -heaven. I preached over her corpse; our society attended: but surely -never did souls triumph over death more than we did that night. -Many would say, “O death! where is thy sting? O grave! where is thy -victory?” As for my own part, I was enabled to trample death under my -feet: and, blessed be GOD, through rich grace I can do that daily. But -then your Lordship may ask, “Why are you reconciled to life?” Because -I can do that for JESUS on earth, which I cannot do in heaven: I mean, -be made instrumental in bringing some poor, weary, heavy laden sinners -to find rest in his blood and righteousness: and, indeed, if our -Saviour was to offer either to take me now, or to stay only to take -one sinner more, I would desire to stay to take him with me. But -whither am I running? O my Lord, death is a delightful topic. Excuse -me if I forget myself when writing about it. Blessed be our GOD for -supporting your soul under so close a trial! How sweet will it be to -meet your Lady glorified at the great day! Yet a little while, and -that happy day shall come. But it is time to answer your Lordship’s -question: “How was you on the 24th of last _November_?” I thank GOD, -very well. My soul was much refreshed with the Redeemer’s presence; -and I was rejoicing in hope of the glory of GOD. I hear of wonderful -things in _Scotland_. I can only fall down and worship. I have seen -greater things than ever in _England_. I expect to see far greater in -_Scotland_. Our LORD will not let his people be disappointed of their -hopes. But I must away. We were very happy together with some other -dear friends last night. I have not seen your Lordship’s daughters, -though they have been so kind as to send to enquire after my health. -I hope to see them to-day; and am, my Lord, with all possible respect, -my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXIV. - - _To the Reverend Mr. M――――, at Cambuslang._ - - _Edinburgh, June 8, 1742._ - _Reverend and very dear Brother_, - -I Heartily rejoice at the awakening at _Cambuslang_, and elsewhere. -I believe you will both see and hear of far greater things than these. -I trust that not one corner of poor _Scotland_ will be left unwatered -by the dew of GOD’s heavenly blessing. The cloud is now only rising as -big as a man’s hand; yet a little while, and we shall hear a sound of -an abundance of gospel rain. Our glorious _Emmanuel_ has given us much -of his divine presence since my arrival. O that it may accompany me to -_Cambuslang_! GOD willing, I hope to be with you the beginning of next -week; but cannot exactly tell the day. In the mean while, forget not -to pray for, reverend and dear brother, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXV. - - _To the Reverend Mr. E―――― E――――, at Sterling._ - - _Edinburgh, June 10, 1742._ - _Reverend and very dear Sir_, - -I Am now at Mr. _G――――_’s house; and finding his wife about to set out -for _Sterling_, the love which I bear you, for my dear Master’s sake, -constrains me to send you a line. It is some concern to me, that our -difference as to outward things, should cut off our sweet fellowship -and communion with each other. GOD knows my heart, I highly value -and honour you. Reverend and dear Sir, I do assure you I love you and -your brethren more than ever. I applaud your zeal for GOD; and though, -in some respects, I think it not according to knowledge, and to be -levelled frequently against me, yet indeed I feel no resentment in -my heart, and should joyfully sit down and hear you and your other -brethren preach. I salute them all; and pray our common LORD to give -us all a right judgment in all things. I hope the glorious _Emmanuel_ -will be present at the sacrament, and make himself known to you in -breaking of bread. I have made bold to send you the inclosed pamphlets, -and should be glad to know your opinion of them. When I shall come to -_Sterling_, I know not. However, I earnestly pray for you and yours. -I could drop a tear. O when shall the time come, when the watchmen -will see eye to eye? Hasten that time, our LORD and our GOD! But -perhaps I am troublesome. Forgive me, reverend and dear Sir, being, -without dissimulation, your - - Younger brother and servant in the gospel of CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXVI. - - _To Mr. D―――― A――――, in London._ - - _Edinburgh, July 7, 1742._ - _Dear Friend_, - -I Arrived here last _Saturday_ evening from the _West_, where I -preached all the last week: as, twice on _Monday_ at _Paisley_, six -miles from _Glasgow_; on the _Tuesday_ and _Wednesday_, three times -each day, at _Irvine_, 16 miles from thence; on _Thursday_, twice -at _Mearns_, fifteen miles from that; on _Friday_, three times at -♦_Cumbernauld_; and on _Saturday_, twice at _Falkirk_, in my way to -_Edinburgh_. In every place there was the greatest commotion among -the people as was ever known. Their mourning in most of the places, -was like the mourning for a first-born. The auditories were very -large, and the work of GOD seems to be spreading more and more. Last -sabbath-day I preached twice in the park, and once in the church, and -twice every day since. A number of seats and shades, in the form of an -amphitheatre, have been erected in the park, where the auditory sit in -a beautiful order. I have received very agreeable news from my family -abroad.――I purpose going to _Cambuslang_ to-morrow, in order to assist -at the communion; and shall preach at various places westward before -I return here. I intend to embark for _America_ as soon as possible -after I leave _Scotland_. Thus you see, my dear brother, how I have -been employed. O give thanks to our blessed Saviour, for his great -unparalleled goodness to a most unworthy worm. Indeed I have seen and -felt such things, as I never saw and felt before. I never was enabled -to preach so powerfully as whilst I have been in the _West_. I hear -that brother _C――――_ is in the country, and that you exhort in the -society. May the LORD open your mouth, and cause your lips to shew -forth his praise! Let us talk of his loving-kindness all the day long. -GOD gives me faith for my poor orphans. Help me with your prayers. -GOD will supply all my wants. Glory be to his name, I am kept from -doubting. My brother, I love you dearly. You have been a close and -faithful brother. May the LORD bless you and yours. Adieu! Pray fail -not of writing as particular as may be, to, - - Most affectionately yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - ♦ ‘Cambernauld’ replaced with ‘Cumbernauld’ - - - LETTER CCCCXXVII. - - _To Mr. H――――, at the Orphan-house._ - - _Edinburgh, July 7, 1742._ - _My very dear friend, faithful steward, and brother in_ CHRIST, - -LAST _Monday_ I received an agreeable packet of letters from you. I -think they are dated in _October_ and _December_ last. They rejoiced -our hearts. As soon as I read yours, my wife said, let us give thanks -and pray. Accordingly we kneeled down, and had very near access to the -Father of Mercies on your behalf. At night, after our coming home, we -did the same. Our common LORD enabled us to wrestle in faith. We all -felt our hearts drawn mightily towards you. I could wish for wings to -fly unto you. I long to thank you in person, for your faithfulness to -your poor unworthy, but most affectionate friend. My dear brother, GOD -is still doing greater things for me than ever. The awakening here in -_Scotland_ is unspeakable. The congregations in the _West_, are just -like those which you and I saw at _Foggs-Manor_, in _Pensylvania_. -GOD seems to awaken scores together. I never was enabled to preach so -before. O that I may lie low at the feet of my dear Redeemer! to whose -image I am studying to be more conformed every day. Your letter to -dear brother _A――――_ pleased us very much. I have desired him to print -it. I paid a three hundred pound bill drawn upon me by Mr. _N――――_, as -well as Mr. _B――――_’s: whether you include that in the eleven thousand -pounds, I know not. However, blessed be GOD, if it were eleven -thousand more I hope I should be kept from doubting. At present, I am -looking up to our great Housholder for fresh supplies; which I believe -he will give me, and which I will send to you as soon as possible. -I hope to see you soon, and to thank you in particular for your -faithfulness to me. My friend and brother, you shall in no wise lose -your reward. I believe GOD will take _Georgia_ into his own hands. Its -affairs have lately been before the House of Commons. Mr. _Ste――――_ -was reprimanded for his abuse of the trustees; the use of rum was -granted, but the use of slaves denied. Let us stand still, be instant -in prayer, and we shall certainly see the salvation of GOD. I am -yet made to hope against hope, in behalf of poor _Georgia_. The LORD -strengthen your weak body, and continually comfort your soul. That you -may be filled with all the fulness of GOD, is the hearty prayer of, -dear Mr. _H――――_, - - Yours eternally in the strictest bonds of gospel love, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXVIII. - - _To Mrs. Whitefield._ - - _Edinburgh, July 7, 1742._ - _My dear Love_, - -SINCE I wrote the last, I have seen such things as I never beheld -before. Yesterday morning I preached at _Glasgow_ to a very large -congregation. At noon I came to _Cambuslang_, the place which GOD hath -so much honoured. I preached at two, to a vast body of people, and -at six in the evening, and again at nine at night. Such a commotion -surely never was heard of, especially at eleven at night. It far -out-did all that I ever saw in _America_. For about an hour and a -half there was such weeping, so many falling into deep distress, and -expressing it various ways, as is inexpressible. The people seem to -be slain by scores. They are carried off, and come into the house -like soldiers wounded in, and carried off a field of battle. Their -cries and agonies are exceedingly affecting. Mr. _M――――_ preached -after I had ended, till past one in the morning, and then could scarce -persuade them to depart. All night in the fields, might be heard -the voice of prayer and praise. Some young ladies were found by a -gentlewoman praising GOD at break of day. She went and joined with -them. The LORD is indeed much with me. I have preached twice to-day -already, and am to preach twice, perhaps three times more. The -commotions increase. To-morrow, and on sabbath-day, I shall preach at -_Calder_; on _Monday_, here again; and on _Tuesday_ at _Kilsyth_, and -then, GOD willing, at _Glasgow_. I am persuaded the work will spread -more and more. My kindest respects to all. Accept of the same from, my -dear love, - - Yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXIX. - - _To the Reverend Mr. W――――, of Dundee._ - - _Edinburgh, July 7, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -YOUR letter gave me some little concern, I thought it breathed much of -a sectarian spirit; to which I hoped dear Mr. _W――――_ was quite averse. -Methinks you seem, dear Sir, not satisfied, unless I declare myself a -Presbyterian, and openly renounce the church of _England_. GOD knows -that I have been faithful in bearing a testimony against what I think -is corrupt in that church. I have shewn my freedom in communicating -with the church of _Scotland_, and in baptizing children their own way. -I can go no further. As for what you mention about the Quakers, I know -not what particular exceptionable passages there were in my sermons, -in which I mentioned them. That some good souls are among the -Quakers, I doubt not.――For such I have charity, because our LORD hath -given to them his spirit.――Though I am a strenuous defender of the -righteousness of CHRIST, and utterly detest _Arminian_ principles, yet -I know that GOD gave me the Holy Ghost, before I was clear in either -as to head-knowledge: and therefore, dear Sir, I am the more moderate -to people who are not clear, supposing I see the divine image stamped -upon their hearts. Mr. _W――――_, Mr. _L――――_, &c. I take to be holy men -of GOD, though they think far widely from me, and from each other in -some particular branches of doctrine. Dear Sir, be not offended at my -plain speaking. I find but few of a truly catholic spirit. Most are -catholic till they bring persons over to their own party, and there -they would fetter them. I have not so learned CHRIST. I desire to act -as GOD acts. I shall approve, and join with all who are good in every -sect, and cast a mantle of love over all that are bad, so far as is -consistent with a good conscience. This I can do without temporizing; -nay I should defile my conscience if I did otherwise. As for my -answer to Mr. _M――――_, dear Sir, it is very satisfying to my own soul. -Morning and evening retirement is certainly exceeding good; but if -through weakness of body, or frequency of preaching, I cannot go to -GOD in my usual set times, I think my spirit is not in bondage. It -is not for me to tell how often I use secret prayer; if I did not use -it, nay, if in one sense I did not pray without ceasing, it would be -difficult for me to keep up that frame of soul, which by the divine -blessing I daily enjoy. If the work of GOD prospers, and your hands -become more full, you will then, dear Sir, know better what I mean. -But enough of this. GOD knows my heart, I would do every thing I -possibly could, to satisfy all men, and give a reason of the hope that -is in me with meekness and fear; but I cannot satisfy all that are -waiting for an occasion to find fault: our LORD could not; I therefore -despair of doing it. However, dear Sir, I take what you have said in -very good part: only I think you are too solicitous to clear up my -character to captious and prejudiced men. Let my master speak for me. -Blessed be GOD, he will, so long as I simply throw myself into his -almighty arms. I am glad the work goes on with you. Glory be to GOD, -we have seen glorious things in the _West_. My tender love to all that -are pleased to remember me. When I shall come your way, I know not. -On _Friday_, GOD willing, I go to _Cambuslang_, where I expect to see -great days of the son of man. That GOD may bless you abundantly more -and more, and cause your latter end greatly to increase, is the hearty -prayer of, reverend and dear Sir, - - Yours &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXX. - - _To the Reverend Mr. A――――, in Dublin._ - - _Glasgow, July 12, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -ON _Saturday_ I received your very kind letter, and being just now -returned from _Cambuslang_, I snatch a few moments to acknowledge it. -I have long since waited for a call to _Ireland_. In such an important -step, I care not to proceed without great caution. When I find the -cloud of divine providence moving your way, I trust the language of -my heart will be, LORD, I come to do or suffer thy will! In the mean -while, I will watch unto prayer. I doubt not but you, reverend and -dear Sir, will help me herein. I thank you most heartily, for being -jealous over me. I believe it is with a godly jealousy. I wish I was -more jealous over myself. But blessed be GOD, this I can say in the -midst of the honours wherewith the glorious _Emmanuel_ hath honoured -me, “Not unto me, O LORD, not unto me, but unto thy name be all the -glory.” Dear Sir, I think I am the worst of the sons of men. Yet I -dare not deny what the blessed JESUS hath done for my sinful soul. He -is pleased (O infinitely condescending GOD!) to honour me still more -and more. _Saturday_ last I came to _Cambuslang_, and I think I never -saw such things before. The work seems to be spreading. O that it may -reach and overspread poor _Ireland_ also! All things are possible with -GOD. Now the LORD is watering so many other places, I pray he may not -leave that intirely destitute and dry.――O for faith to expect great, -and very great things from GOD! He does not love to disappoint people -of their hope. Dear Sir, my heart is now enlarged with a sense of -the freeness and fulness of the Redeemer’s loving-kindness. You, dear -Sir, are an old weather beaten soldier. You are ripened for glory, and -are ready to sing your _Nunc dimittis_¹.――I am just about to begin to -be a soldier. But, blessed be GOD, I shall follow soon. The hopes of -bringing more souls to JESUS CHRIST, is the only consideration that -can reconcile me to life. For this cause I can willingly stay long -from my wish’d-for home, my wished-for JESUS. But whither am I going? -I forget myself when writing of JESUS . His love fills my soul, O free -grace! Surely I shall sing the loudest in heaven; but I must have done; -nature calls for rest. Depending on the continuance of your prayers, -and with my hearty salutation to all that love the blessed JESUS, I -subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate, though younger and most unworthy brother - and servant in the gospel of GOD’s dear Son, - - _G. W._ - - ¹ Now lettest thou thy servant, &c. - - - LETTER CCCCXXXI. - - _To Mr. J―――― C――――, in London._ - - _New-Kilpatrick, July 15, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -OF all my fellow-labourers letters, I think yours come the sweetest -to my soul. You do not forget the rock from whence you was hewn, and -therefore the LORD will honour you more and more. Though I have so -small a degree of humility myself, I can see and admire it in others. -It is the queen of graces. O beg of the exalted JESUS to make me -humble. Indeed I have need of humility, for I am honoured more and -more. What I have sent you already, does not near come up to what I -have seen since. Last _Thursday_ night, and _Friday_ morning, there -was such a shock in _Edinburgh_ as I never felt before. O what a -melting and weeping was there! I have heard blessed effects of it -since. All glory be to GOD through CHRIST. On _Friday_ night I came to -_Cambuslang_, to assist at the blessed sacrament. On _Saturday_ I -preached to above twenty thousand people. In my prayer the power -of GOD came down and was greatly felt. In my two sermons, there was -yet more power. On sabbath day, scarce ever was such a sight seen in -_Scotland_. There were undoubtedly upwards of twenty thousand people. -Two tents were set up, and the holy sacrament was administered in -the fields. When I began to serve a table, the power of GOD was felt -by numbers; but the people crouded so upon me, that I was obliged -to desist and go to preach at one of the tents, whilst the ministers -served the rest of the tables. GOD was with them, and with his people. -There was preaching all day by one or another, and in the evening, -when the sacrament was over, at the request of the ministers I -preached to the whole congregation. I preached about an hour and a -half. Surely it was a time much to be remembered. On _Monday_ morning, -I preached again to near as many; but such an universal stir I never -saw before. The motion fled as swift as lightning from one end of the -auditory to another. You might have seen thousands bathed in tears. -Some at the same time wringing their hands, others almost swooning, -and others crying out, and mourning over a pierced Saviour. But I must -not attempt to describe it. In the afternoon, the concern again was -very great. Much prayer had been previously put up to the LORD. All -night in different companies, you might have heard persons praying to, -and praising GOD. The children of GOD came from all quarters. It was -like the passover in _Josiah_’s time. We are to have another in about -two or three months, if the LORD will. One Mr. _W――――_, a minister, -who has great popular gifts, was as well as others much owned and -helped at this time. On _Tuesday_ morning I preached at _Glasgow_, (it -was a most glorious time) and in the afternoon twice at _Inchannon_. -The LORD gave a blow to many. Yesterday morning I preached there -again, and here twice. Every time there was a great stir, especially -at this place. A great company of awakened souls is within the compass -of twenty miles, and the work seems to be spreading apace. I am -exceedingly strengthened, O unmerited mercy! both in soul and body, -and cannot now do well without preaching three times a day. The LORD -gives me great confidence about the Orphan-house, and assures me that -he will provide for me and mine. O help me to thank him. Call upon all -to bless his holy name. I know you will not be slack to praise him. I -rejoice, my dear brother, to find that you enjoy so much of GOD. May -he fill you with all his fulness. The trials you meet with, will only -make you a more able minister of the New Testament. I am of your mind -with respect to ――――. He will not prosper. The LORD hates sectarian -zeal. Dear brother, adieu. Expect to hear every opportunity from - - Yours most affectionately and eternally in the blessed JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXII. - - _To the Reverend Mr. R――――, in London._ - - _Inchannon, July 21, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -I Heartily rejoice that the LORD is blessing and owning you. Go on, -dear Sir, go on, and you will certainly find the glorious _Emmanuel_ -will be with you more and more. It is observable, that there is but -one thing in scripture, that we are commanded to do out of season, -_preaching_. Be instant therefore, dear Sir, in season and out of -season. The LORD will stand by you and strengthen you, and deliver you -from wicked and unreasonable men. You will find the blessedness of the -cross, and the spirit of CHRIST and of glory to rest upon your soul. -The Messrs. _E――――_ and their adherents, would you think it, have -appointed a publick fast to humble themselves, among other things, for -my being received in _Scotland_, and for the delusion, as they term it, -at _Cambuslang_, and other places; and all this, because I would not -consent to preach only for them, till I had light into, and could take -the solemn league and covenant.――But to what lengths may prejudice -carry even good men?――From giving way to the first risings of bigotry -and a party spirit, good LORD deliver us! - - Your most affectionate brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXIII. - - _To Mr. M―――― A――――, at Morpeth._ - - _Edinburgh, July 26, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -I Just now received and read your letter. It much affected me. It -bespeaks the language of an uneasy restless heart. In reading it, I -thought of the great _Austin_, who used, when he prayed against lust, -secretly to wish that his prayer might not be answered, and yet he -made a most eminent saint, and shone in the church as a star of the -first magnitude. I likewise thought how our Saviour would receive -you, if here on earth; even as he received and answered the poor woman -taken in adultery.――I am sure he would say, “Neither do I condemn -thee.” Another text offers itself, “I will heal their backslidings, -and love them freely.” GOD does not say, I will heal thy backsliding -for any certain term of years, but I will heal thy backslidings in -general. Dear Sir, if you have been a backslider these fifty years, -nay, was it possible for you to have been a backslider a thousand -years, yet if with hearty repentance and true faith you turn unto -him, he will abundantly pardon you. O dear Sir, if any one had need -to despair of mercy, I had; but JESUS has washed me in his blood, -and I know that my Redeemer liveth. Your temptations, and atheism, -and hard thoughts of GOD, do not surprize me. Dear Sir, what else can -be expected from a heart desperately wicked, and deceitful above all -things? Dear Sir, let all this drive you to the fountain which is open -for sin and all uncleanness. I once, in your circumstances, thought -CHRIST was hard-hearted; but now I find, nay have long since found, -that his heart is full of love. Take courage, dear Sir; draw near to -the Lamb of GOD that taketh away the sin of the world. Return, thou -wandering prodigal, thy heavenly father is running to meet thee.――Come -back, thou fluttering dove, JESUS is ready to take thee into the ark. -May GOD bless this to you! If he does, I will bless his name. I am a -vile sinner, and have need to lie low before him, whom I have pierced -by my transgression and unprofitableness, times without number. In his -blood and righteousness I find perpetual refuge. Many in these parts -are flying to him. May you, Sir, add to the happy number. You are but -a sinner, and JESUS died for sinners. Come and welcome to JESUS CHRIST. -I expect to remain in _Scotland_ a few months, and hope to be your way, -if the LORD direct. If your way should be directed hither, I should -be glad to see you; if not, you are welcome to write to me. As my -multiplicity of affairs will admit, you shall be answered by, dear Sir, - - Your truly affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXIV. - - _To the Reverend Mr. McL――――._ - - _Edinburgh, July 28, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -WITH this, I suppose, you will receive several young ones, who I think -have acted wrong in leaving their respective employs under parents -and masters to go after me. Be pleased to examine them, and send them -home. The LORD was with me at _Falkirk_, and is pleased to work by me -here. O free grace! I am persuaded I shall have more power, since dear -Mr. _G――――_ hath printed such a bitter pamphlet. Now I begin to be a -disciple of JESUS CHRIST, I rejoice and am exceeding glad. The archers -shot sore at me that I might fall, but the LORD is, and the LORD will -be my helper. At present I can add no more; but beg the continuance of -your prayers for me and mine. We all join in hearty salutation to you -and your whole houshold. I am, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most obedient humble servant, and brother in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXV. - - _To Mr. D―――― A――――, in London._ - - _Edinburgh, July 30, 1742._ - _Dear Brother A――――_, - -WHAT is the meaning I hear no oftner from you? It always gives me -great pleasure to hear of your welfare. I write to you as often as -possible. At present I am somewhat indisposed in body; but, glory be -to GOD, the joy of the LORD is in my soul. I feel a blessing I cannot -express. - - - _July 31._ - -So far I wrote yesterday, but was obliged through illness to leave -off.――Notwithstanding, in the pulpit the LORD out of weakness makes -me to wax strong, and causes me to triumph more and more. One of the -associate presbytery has published the most virulent pamphlet I ever -saw, ascribing all that has been done here, and even in _New-England_, -&c. to the influence of the devil. O how prejudice will blind the eyes -even of good men. Last night some of my friends thought I was going -off; but how did JESUS fill my heart! To-day I am, as they call it, -much better; next post, if able, I will send you some more news. My -health will not permit me to enlarge now. In less than a month, we -are to have another sacrament at _Cambuslang_, a thing not practised -before in _Scotland_. I entreat all to pray in an especial manner for -a blessing at that time. Our blessed master is exceeding good to us. -O help me to praise him for the signal unmerited mercies conferred on, -dear brother _A――――_, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXVI. - - _To Mr. H―――― B――――, in South-Carolina._ - - _August 6, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -I Have just been walking with a nobleman -in his fine house, and likewise talking with him about the house not -made with hands, of which you and I are heirs. Blessed be GOD, who -has given us the earnest of an inheritance amongst all them that are -sanctified. This you shall surely in a very little time be a possessor -of, notwithstanding of late satan has bruised your heel. That cunning, -cruel archer has shot sorely at you, that you might fall, but the -LORD has been, and the LORD will be your helper. Even this shall work -together for good to your own and many other souls. Our Saviour would -never have given satan leave to have sifted you, had he not prayed -for you, and intended to bring great good out of it. If it makes -you more like a little child, and your friends and acquaintance more -watchful and self-diffident, it will be very well. O dear Sir, I -see every day plainer and plainer that I am nothing, have nothing, -and can do nothing, and yet I can do all things through JESUS CHRIST -strengthening me. What GOD has lately done for me and his church, is -unspeakable. Ere long I hope to tell you face to face. In the mean -time, be pleased to remember me in your prayers and praises. Accept -my hearty thanks for all favours conferr’d on my orphan family. Be -pleased to remember me in the kindest and most cordial manner, to all -your dear relations, and believe me to be, dear Mr. _B――――_, - - Your most obliged affectionate friend, brother - and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXVII. - - _To Mr. R―――― S――――._ - - _Strath-martin, August 10, 1742._ - _Dear brother Robert_, - -I Can never let a letter of yours lie long unanswered. The love I -bear to you and yours is unfeigned, and I continually remember you -before the LORD. His word runs and is much glorified in these parts. -I trust it also makes advances in your soul. How is it with you, my -dear brother _R――――_? Do you grow in grace? Is the world more under -your feet than usual? Do you find a real, solid, abiding rest in -JESUS CHRIST? Or is it only transitory and superficial? It is a very -uncommon thing to be rooted and grounded in the love of JESUS. I find -persons may have the idea, but are far from having the real substance. -To say, “I am a poor sinner,” and to be a poor sinner indeed, are two -different things. Methinks I hear my dear man say, and so they are. -Well then, let us go to JESUS, and he will make us poor and yet free. -Blessed be his name, I feel the power of his precious, life-giving, -all-atoning blood more and more every day. I was happy when at -_London_. I am ten times happier now. The LORD hath done great things -for us, whereof we are glad. How is my dear _Peter_? Is his heart yet -established and settled upon the rock? Or is the dove only fluttering -about the door of the ark? If so, may the dear Redeemer reach out -his almighty and extended arm, and take him in! Dear _B――――_ I hope -grows, because he seems to see more of his heart. We shall certainly -bear fruit upwards, in proportion as we take root downwards. May the -eternal spirit breathe upon this letter, and bless it to your soul! -O my brother, keep close to JESUS. Do not be content, unless you feel -a sensible growth in your soul. Accept my hearty love from, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXVIII. - - _To P――――, at London._ - - _Strath-martin, August 10, 1742._ - _Dear P――――_, - -THE great trouble which I gave you when at _London_, and the readiness -you shewed in waiting upon a poor unworthy minister of CHRIST, hath -made me often to pray for you, and also to hope, that in time you -would be brought to love the LORD JESUS himself. I trust that time is -now come, and that the glorious _Emmanuel_ hath at length captivated -and taken full possession of your heart. Will you give me leave to ask -a few friendly questions? Has religion sunk out of your head into your -heart? You was civilized when I was at _London_: Are you yet really -converted? Your affections were now and then raised towards,――are they -now centered in and fixed on the LORD JESUS? If you can answer these -questions in the affirmative, I pronounce you a wise virgin, even wise -to eternal salvation; blessed art thou among women. If not, I do not -despair of you. JESUS can change the heart. JESUS can make of a proud -pharisee, a poor sinner. Let you and I then, dear _P――――_, apply to -the Redeemer’s blood. He can wash us as white as snow. I feel his -power every day more and more, and so do those with me. May we go on -from strength to strength, till grace be swallowed up in glory. We -see great days of the son of man in _Scotland_. May the kingdom of GOD -come with full power over all the earth! The LORD be with you. Accept -this as a token of unfeigned love, from - - Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXXXIX. - - _To Mr. B――――, at the Orphan-house._ - - _Cambuslang, August 17, 1742._ - -AND has my dear brother _B――――_ got the start of me? What, put into -prison before me? I wish you joy, my dear brother, with all my heart. -Had I been at _Savannah_, surely I would gladly have come (and if -there had been need) gladly have washed your feet. I doubt not but -your imprisonment was for CHRIST’s sake. I am persuaded, the letter -from your friend that doubted, was the sorest stab of all; but all -is intended to draw us from the creature, even from the new creature, -and bring us nearer to the Creator, GOD blessed for evermore. _Paul_’s -friends deserted, and no doubt judged him. “All they in _Asia_ forsook -me,” says he; and again, “At my first trial no man stood by me;” -and what follows? but “the LORD stood by me:” and will he not, dear -brother, also stand by you? I cannot help believing but that _Georgia_ -will yet be a glorious colony. The counsel of GOD shall stand. He -surely put it into my heart to build the Orphan-house. He certainly -brought you to _Georgia_ to superintend it. He will bless you and -yours. I join in blessing GOD with you, and in admiring how he has -spread a table for my dear family in that wilderness. But what shall -we say? The LORD loves to encourage faith; and since his honour is so -much concerned, I am sure he will vindicate it, and never suffer his -enemies to say thus of us, “There, there, so would we have it.” I am -kept from the least doubting; and GOD only knows how many prayers of -faith I have put up for you. I have often wished as it were for the -wings of a dove, that I might fly unto you, and take you one by one -into my unworthy arms, and weep over you with tears of love. Blessed -be GOD, the time draws near apace. I am just now about to publish a -further account of the Orphan-house, and hope shortly to collect some -more money towards its support. I am blessed with far greater success -than ever, and satan roars louder. You will see by what I here send, -how the archers of different classes shoot at me; but the LORD (for -ever adored be his never-failing love) causes my bow to abide in -strength, and enables me to triumph in every place. The comforts -and success the LORD gives to me, is unspeakable. Last LORD’s day, I -believe there were here thirty thousand people, and above two thousand -five hundred communicants. The work spreads, and I believe will yet -spread. My bodily strength is daily renewed, and I mount on the wings -of faith and love like an eagle. I can only cry Grace! grace! My dear -brother, I feel every day more and more, that I am a poor, very poor -sinner. I often wonder why JESUS suffers me to live, much more to -speak for him. But he will have mercy on whom he will have mercy. O -free grace! Oh unparalleled love of an infinitely condescending GOD! -Whilst I am musing, the fire kindles. Surely we shall have a happy -meeting in _Georgia_. My Master will, I trust, come along with me. -Otherwise, may I not go up hence. In the mean while, I pray him to -quicken and revive your dear souls, and fill you as with new wine. -Thus he deals with me and mine daily. I am retired for a day, on -purpose to write letters. The LORD bless them to your dear souls, whom -I love in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. I wish you had told me who stood -by at _Savannah_ and brought you refreshment. Greet them, and give -them particular thanks in my name. My heart is full; I know not how to -stop. But I must write to the trustees, and to others. I heard nothing -of the affair, till I received your letter last week. A word or two -of yours to Mr. _O――――_, I think a little too harsh; but _Paul_ spoke -once a little too harsh to the high-priest. Our JESUS will overlook -this; and reward you for your imprisonment by and by. Adieu! my dear -man, adieu! Forget not, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXL. - - _To the Honourable Trustees for Georgia._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 17, 1742._ - _Honoured Gentlemen_, - -SOME letters, which I received last week from _Georgia_, occasion my -troubling you with this, which I doubt not will meet with a candid -reception at your hands. I find that Mr. _H――――_ and Mr. _B――――_ have -been taken up by a warrant, and were imprisoned above a week, for a -thing which, I believe, none of you, honoured gentlemen, will judge -cognizable by the civil magistrate. It seems that Mr. _B――――_, in a -private conversation with Mr. _O――――_, (who, I suppose, is the present -minister of _Savannah_) told him, “He was no ‘christian’; that he -wondered at the impudence of young men in subscribing articles they -did not believe; and that he should think it his duty to warn his -friends not to hear him.” I acknowledge that such language was too -harsh; but Mr. _H――――_, who did not say near so much, was linked in -the same prosecution, and imprisoned with him. Mr. _J――――_, who was -then at _Frederica_, being informed of it, declared such a procedure -to be illegal; and his Excellency General _Oglethorp_, desired my -friends to lay the matter before the board of the Honourable Trustees. -I being now upon the spot, they have sent to me a very particular -account of what has passed; which, if you please, honoured gentlemen, -I will transmit unto you, or, when I come to _London_, will wait upon -you in person. I find also, that my friends were denied a copy of -the proceedings of the court: in which, I am persuaded the honourable -gentlemen to whom I am writing, will think they have been wronged. -My friends require no satisfaction, but only desire such a proceeding -may be animadverted upon; knowing that otherwise it will be a great -discouragement to people’s settling in _Georgia_. I am sorry also -to inform you, honoured gentlemen, that five very small children, -(_Swiss_ or _Dutch_) whose parents lately died in their passage from -_England_, have had their goods sold at _Vendue_, and are bound out -till the age of twenty-one years. This I think directly contrary -to the grant given me by you, honoured gentlemen; for thereby I -was impowered to take as many orphans into the house as my fund -would admit of. The magistrates, I understand, have also been at the -Orphan-house, and claim a power to take away the children when they -please, whether the children chuse it, or complain of ill-treatment, -or not. This grieves some of the children, and makes others of them -insolent, who are hereby taught, that they have a power to go away -when they will. This, honoured gentlemen, must be very discouraging to -those who are entrusted with their education; and who, I am persuaded, -aim at nothing but the glory of GOD, the welfare of the colony, and -the salvation of the children’s souls. I suppose that the magistrates -(I mean Mr. _P――――_ and Mr. _T――――_) have taken such a liberty from -the instructions which were sent, honoured gentlemen, from you some -time ago. But Mr. _J――――_ has told them, they have misunderstood you; -and his Excellency General _Oglethorp_ I find has wrote to you, -honoured gentlemen, about it. By the accounts I have, our plantation -thrives well; and Mr. _H――――_ hopes we shall do with white servants -alone. I do assure you, honoured gentlemen, I will do all I can, with -the most disinterested views, to promote the good of _Georgia_: only -I beg the management of the Orphan-house, and orphans, may be secured -to me and my successors for ever; and that the magistrates be not -suffered to disturb us, when there is no ground of complaint. They -acknowledged, when at the Orphan-house last, that the children were -taken good care of, both as to their bodies and souls; and will it -not then, honoured gentlemen, tend much to the welfare of the colony, -that the Orphan-house should meet with all possible encouragement. -His Excellency General _Oglethorp_ has informed my friend Mr. _H――――_, -that, if I desired it, he thought you would grant me a greater tract -of land, which I should be obliged to give away in a certain term of -years, and that we might have our own magistrates, as have the people -of _Ebenezer_. Whether I shall desire such a favour, I know not; but, -if I should, I desire to know, what you, honoured gentlemen, would -say to it. Many have applied to me to settle in _Georgia_; hitherto -I could give them no encouragement. I wish I may be enabled to give -them a great deal for the future. Indeed, honoured gentlemen, I do not -desire to find fault. I doubt not but you have been prejudiced both -against me and my friends. The event will shew what friends we are to -_Georgia_. The Orphan-house will certainly be of great utility to the -colony; and the children educated therein, I trust, will be the glory -of the society to which they belong. They are bred up to industry, as -well as to other things; and are taught to fear GOD, and honour the -king. I am glad to hear that you have lately sent over a gentleman -who (I suppose) will do justice. I think I desire nothing else; and -heartily pray GOD to bless him, and you, honoured gentlemen, and all -that are concerned in the management of _Georgia_ affairs. I hope to -be in town in about two months; in the mean while, I would beg the -favour of a line by your secretary; and also entreat you, honoured -gentlemen, to write to the magistrates of _Savannah_, to let the -Orphan-house managers alone. If I or my friends should happen to -say or do any thing amiss, I assure you, honoured gentlemen, you -shall have all possible satisfaction given you by them, and also by, -honoured gentlemen, - - Your very humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLI. - - _To Mr. H――――, in Georgia._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 17, 1742._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -WITH a great deal of pleasure I received your letters dated _May 14th_, -_26th_, _29th_, and _June 1st_. Blessed be GOD! for all his goodness, -in providing for my dear family in that wilderness, by such various -unexpected ways. It caused my heart to leap for joy. I find you have -been wrongfully imprisoned. I should have been glad (if time had -permitted) that you had wrote me word, how it has been with your soul -under such a circumstance. I hope the spirit of CHRIST and of glory -rested upon you. Glad should I have been to have sung and prayed -with you; but my hour is not yet come. I have just now wrote to the -trustees, and intend waiting upon them as soon as I come to _London_. -I am persuaded the LORD will influence their hearts to do us justice. -I am glad you wrote so properly to the General, and that GOD hath -given you favour in his sight. “When a man’s ways please the LORD, -he makes his very enemies to be at peace with him.” I intend sending -him and Mr. _Jones_ a letter of thanks. I owe Mr. _S――――_ only about -ninety pounds, and about a hundred and fifty more in all, upon the -Orphan-house account in _England_. I am just publishing a further -account, which I am persuaded the LORD will bless. I would not have -you to undertake any business you do not like. I think the LORD has -fitted you for your present station. Professor _Franck_ held it -dangerous to change persons frequently, who were entrusted with the -care of the orphans. I am of your opinion as to hiring servants.――It -is impossible to tell you, my dear man, what I have seen, heard, and -felt since I came last to _Scotland_. The glorious _Emmanuel_ rides -daily on in the chariot of his gospel, from conquering and to conquer. -The congregations are just like that at _Fogg-Manor_.――I am opposed -on all sides. Dear Mr. _E――――_’s people have lately kept a fast -upon my account. The kirk presbyters also, now they see the Seceders -splitting, notwithstanding I have been instrumental in GOD’s hands, -in some degree, in stopping the secession, begin to call some of their -ministers to account for employing me: but who can stand before envy? -In the midst of all, my dear Master keeps me leaning upon himself, -and causes me to walk in the comforts of the Holy Ghost from morning -to night. I wish time would have allowed you to have wrote a little -about his love, and to have abounded more in thanks for the opportune -supplies which he sent you. But I am sure that my dear Mr. _H――――_ is -not wanting in either of these. I think that I see you grow in grace. -I assure you, you are dearer to me than ever. My wife readily excuses -your not writing, knowing what it is to be in a hurry of business. O -pray that we may have a prosperous voyage to you, by the will of GOD. -By this time I suppose you are a father. May GOD teach you and your -wife how to order the child! I have much to say to you both, when -I see you. My dear old friend, and first fellow-traveller, GOD has -yet great blessings in store for us. He will give grace and glory, -and no good thing will he with-hold from them that lead a godly -life. Methinks I am conversing with you now. May GOD give us a happy -meeting! He will, he will! For the present I must bid my dear man good -night. I stole this day from public preaching, to dispatch my private -affairs. All join in hearty love to, and prayers for you. Accept of -the same in the most tender manner, from, my dear Mr. _H――――_, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother, and servant till death, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLII. - - _To his Excellency General Oglethorp._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 18, 1742._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -I Most heartily thank you for being so kind to my family in _Georgia_, -and for espousing my friends cause when I think they were apparently -wronged. In a letter, I yesterday laid the case before the honourable -trustees, not doubting but they will preserve us from oppression, and -from persecution in all its shapes. I think we have only the glory -of GOD, and the good of the colony at heart. Prejudices may be raised -against us by evil reports and misrepresentations; but your Excellency -is more noble than to hearken to insinuations, which are not supported -by evident matters of fact. I am sure GOD will bless you for defending -the cause of the fatherless, and espousing the cause of injured -innocence. My friends, I trust, will at all times readily acknowledge -any thing they may either say or do wrong; and, if I know any thing of -my own heart, I would not offend any one causelessly and wilfully, for -the world. In a few months I hope to see _Georgia_. In the mean while, -I beg your Excellency to accept these few lines of thanks from, -honoured Sir, - - Your Excellency’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLIII. - - _To Thomas J――――, Esq., in Georgia._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 18, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. J――――_, - -WITH this I send you my repeated thanks for your great kindness to -my dear family. The Father of Mercies and the GOD of all Consolations -will plentifully reward you for such well-doing. In a few months -I hope to thank you in person. GOD hath done, and is still doing -greater things for me than I am able to express. Indeed many souls -have been born again, both in _England_ and _Scotland_, since I left -you at _Georgia_. I desire to cast my crown at the feet of JESUS, -and to cry Grace! grace! Dear Sir, what a charming word is that? I am -sure I can freely own, that all my salvation is of grace, unmerited, -distinguishing, electing grace! If I could be saved by my own -righteousness, I had rather be saved by the righteousness of CHRIST; -because that way of salvation brings most glory to our glorious GOD. I -doubt not but Mr. _J――――_ is like-minded. May he be so more and more, -and daily feel the full power of the Redeemer’s blood! Be pleased to -remember me to all that are pleased to enquire after unworthy me, who -am, dear Sir, - - Your most obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLIV. - - _To Mrs. B――――, at the Orphan-house._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 18, 1742._ - _Dear Sister B――――_, - -HAS the LORD called for your dear lambs? If so, I trust you have been -enabled to say, “The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away: blessed -be the name of the LORD.” I am glad to find you was so well reconciled -to your dear husband’s imprisonment. It is sweet when wives are -strengthened to encourage their husbands in a suffering hour. Then -are they helps meet for them indeed. You do well, my dear Sister, to -lament the vileness of your heart. I find more and more that my heart -is desperately wicked. But, blessed be GOD, I have a fountain to go -and wash in every moment, even the blessed fountain of the Mediator’s -blood. There I can have free access; there I can wash, and daily be -made clean. Indeed, my dear sister, without dissimulation, I am a poor, -very poor sinner; but I am rich in JESUS, and rejoice in his great -salvation from day to day. I long to see you and my dear family, to -acquaint you what GOD hath done for my soul: and yet he is still doing -more and more. He does, he will delight to honour me. I thank you -for the great respect you pay me for his great name’s sake. I will -endeavour not to be behind with you, and the rest of my dear friends, -in humility and love. I am, my dear sister, most sincerely, - - Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLV. - - _To Mr. B――――._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 18, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. B――――_, - -I Think there is a mystery in the LORD’s dealing with you and your -brother. Surely he would never suffer you to be thus tempted, did he -not intend to honour you by and by. What our Saviour does to us now we -know not; it is enough that he hath assured us we shall know hereafter. -I rejoice to hear that you have so many christian negroes. I hope they -are only the first-fruits of a more glorious harvest. Though the work -may be at a stop for a while, fear not; JESUS will revive his own work -in his own time. Notwithstanding our blunders, imprudence, and the -opposition of enemies from without, yet the counsel of the LORD shall -stand, and he will set his king upon his holy hill of _Zion_. The -Mediator’s kingdom makes glorious advances here. I cannot tell you the -hundredth part. I verily believe we shall see greater things abroad. I -know you pray that I may have a prosperous journey to you, by the will -of GOD. I expect to embark for _Georgia_ in a few months. In the mean -while, you shall not be forgotten by, dear Mr. _B――――_, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLVI. - - _To Mrs. T――――, in South-Carolina._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 18, 1742._ - _My dear Friend_, - -I Am glad to hear by your sister, that you are become a despised -follower of the lowly JESUS.――O glorious character! I am persuaded you -had rather have that title truly applied to you, than to be empress -of the universe. I long to see you, and to hear you tell what a happy -change you feel. How does dear Mr. _T――――_? Is he yet truly broken, -and going hand in hand with you to heaven? Happy pair!――I know, by -sweet experience, the comforts you enjoy. Death itself shall not part -you. I hope, nothing that has happened to dear Mr. _B――――_ will prove -a stumbling block to your soul. Such things must be glory to him, that -has said “all things shall work together for good.” My dear friends, -what a mystery is the christian life? Happy those, who are acquainted -with it. That it may be revealed more and more in your hearts, is the -earnest prayer of, dear friends, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLVII. - - _To Mr. H―――― H――――._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 26, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -GLAD was I last night to receive a letter from your hands. I love your -simple honest heart, and earnestly pray the dear Redeemer to give you -a true, lasting, abiding rest in himself. Blessed be his name, I think -I can say, through free grace, that I am in a measure entered into it, -and know what it is by happy experience, to pass from glory to glory -every day. My dear brother, I am opposed on every side; the archers -shoot sore at me that I may fall, but the LORD is my helper. He causes -my bow to abide in strength, and makes me more than conqueror through -his love. The account sent with this, will shew you how often I -have been enabled to preach; but with what efficacy and success, pen -cannot describe. The glorious Redeemer seems to be advancing from -congregation to congregation, carrying all before him. The Messrs. -_E――――_’s people have kept a fast for me, and give out, that all -the work now in _Scotland_ is only delusion, and by the agency of -the devil. O, my dear brother, to what great lengths in bigotry and -prejudice may good men run? Blessed be GOD, I can see the differences -between GOD’s children, and yet love them from my heart. What you said -about poor _Wales_, affected me. I laid upon my face this day, and for -some time pleaded with groans unutterable, for direction in that, and -several other matters of great consequence. I fear my dear brother -thinks too highly of me. Indeed, I feel myself to be a poor sinner, -and yet I am rich in CHRIST, and lean upon his bosom from morning to -night; nay, all the night long. By his grace alone I am what I am; -and if he is pleased to honour me so far, I should be glad to help the -brethren in _Wales_. I am sorry to hear there has been such divisions. -But dividing times generally precede settling times. Upon the receipt -of your last, I wrote to Mr. _O――――_. Last night I received his -answer. He speaks very honourably of you, but thinks that you are too -censorious, in condemning a whole society for the faults of but some, -and too bigotted also to your own way. My dear brother will excuse -this. I would not deal so freely, or take such liberty, did I not -believe you would take it kindly. My brother, my soul loves you. -Dear Miss _Nancy_ wrote me word you was at my house, (I rejoiced) and -that you prayed heartily for unworthy me. The LORD reward, and fill -you with all joy and peace in believing! Our LORD is sovereign in -his dealing with his dear children. I walk in much liberty. O free -grace! Your being so exercised with inward conflicts, helps you to -search hypocrites. But glory be to our heavenly Father, there is a -glorious rest awaits us, and all the children of GOD. I think I feel -a foretaste of it now; nay, I believe I feel the thing itself in a -degree, and when I speak of it, I speak what I know. O infinitely -condescending GOD! My brother, my heart is full. The LORD JESUS bless -you, and fill your dear soul with all his fulness! So prays, with his -whole heart, - - Your most affectionate though most unworthy brother, - and willing servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLVIII. - - _To Mrs. L――――, in Bristol._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 26, 1742._ - _Honoured Mother_, - -I Rejoice to hear that you have been so long under my roof. Blessed -be GOD, that I have a house for my honoured mother to come to. You are -heartily welcome to any thing my house affords, as long as you please. -I am of the same mind now, as formerly. If need was, indeed these -hands should administer to your necessities. I had rather want myself -than you should. I shall be highly pleased when I come to _Bristol_, -and find you sitting in your youngest son’s house. O that I may sit -with you, in the house not made with hands eternal in the heavens! Ere -long, your doom, honoured mother, will be fixed. You must shortly go -hence, and be no more seen. Your only daughter, I trust, is now in the -paradise of GOD. Methinks I hear her say, “Mother, come up hither.” -JESUS, I am sure, calls you in his word. May his spirit enable you to -say, “LORD, lo I come!” My honoured mother, I am happier and happier -every day. JESUS makes me exceeding happy in himself. I hope by Winter -to be at _Bristol_. If any enquire after me, please to tell them, I am -well both in body and soul, and desire them to help me to praise free -and sovereign grace. O that my dear, my very honoured mother may be -made an everlasting monument of it! How does my heart burn with love -and duty to you? gladly would I wash your aged feet, and lean upon -your neck, and weep and pray ’till I could pray no more. With this -I send you a thousand dutiful salutations, and ten thousand hearty -and most humble thanks for all the pains you underwent in conceiving, -bringing forth, nursing, and bringing up, honoured mother, - - Your most unworthy, though most dutiful son, ’till death, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXLIX. - - _To Mr. A――――, in London._ - - _Cambuslang, Aug. 27, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother A――――_, - -THIS day fortnight I came to this place, to assist at the sacramental -occasion with several worthy ministers of the church of _Scotland_. -Such a passover has not been heard of. The voice of prayer and praise -was heard all night. It was supposed, that between 30 and 40,000 -people were assembled, and 3000 communicated. There were three tents. -The ministers were enlarged, and great grace was among the people. I -preached once on _Saturday_, once on the LORD’s Day morning, served -five tables, and preached about ten at night to a great number in the -Church-yard. Though it rained much, there was a great awakening. On -_Monday_ at seven in the morning, the Reverend Mr. _Webster_ preached, -and there was a very great commotion, and also in the third sermon -when I preached, a very great and serious concern was visible through -the whole solemnity. The LORD’s people went home much refreshed. On -_Thursday_ I preached twice at _Greenock_; on _Friday_ three times at -_Kilbride_, and again on _Saturday_ once, and twice at _Stevenson_; -on _Sunday_ four times at _Irvine_. On _Monday_ once at _Irvine_, and -three times at _Kilmarnock_; on _Tuesday_ once at _Kilmarnock_, and -four times at _Stewarton_; on _Wednesday_ once at _Stewarton_, and -twice at the _Mearnes_; and yesterday twice at this place. I never -preached with so much apparent success before. At _Greenock_, _Irvine_, -_Kilbride_, _Kilmarnock_, and _Stewarton_, the concern was great: -at the three last very extraordinary. The work seems to spread more -and more. O, my friend, pray and give praise in behalf of the most -unworthy wretch that was ever employed in the dear Redeemer’s service. -I speak this from my inmost soul. I must cry out continually, “Why -me LORD, why me?” My dear brother _A――――_, I love you dearly in the -bowels of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. I think I could live with you always. -The LORD, I think, hath given you a meek and teachable disposition. O -what is it to be as little children! I am glad to find, you so hunger -and thirst after a continual abiding rest in GOD. Assure yourself, -the LORD will fill and satisfy your soul. He is faithful, who hath -promised, who also will do it. Wait, and thou shalt see and feel the -salvation of GOD. I think I have seen it more for some days past, than -in any journey before. Our Saviour loves to let us see yet greater -things. O for a large heart to receive all the fulness of GOD! I -rejoice to hear that the LORD is with you at the Tabernacle. May his -glory appear, and shine in it more and more! I believe it will: I -believe GOD will bless your school. Our LORD’s Disciples are generally -too much in a hurry; at least I am. They are not content to wait. “He -that believeth, doth not make haste.” O for a passive, tender, truly -broken, child-like heart! that we could watch in reality, and from -moment to moment hear the cry of every Christian, with every call from -GOD, whether by his providence or spirit. It is said, that GOD brought -and kept _Abraham_ at his feet. O that we were always there, waiting -for divine direction! Blessed be his name, I am for the most part at -the feet of JESUS, and indeed he graciously teaches me moment after -moment. I have many things before me now. I know brother _A――――_ will -help me by his prayers. Blessed be GOD, our heaven is begun here. - - Your truly affectionate brother and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCL. - - _To Mr. S―――― C――――, in Deptford._ - - _Glasgow, Sept. 2, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother C――――_, - -I Am just now come from the pulpit, wherein I have experienced much of -the Redeemer’s power, and seen his stately outgoings in the sanctuary. -My brother, the cry of my heart is, “and will GOD indeed dwell with -such a wretch as I am.” Methinks a voice echo’s from above, “I have -dwelt in thee, I do dwell in thee, I will dwell in thee for evermore.” -My heart replies, “LORD, I believe and worship.” - - _A heart that no desire can move, - But still to adore, believe, and love._ - -This, my dear brother, is the present, and indeed continual bent of my -soul, which I trust prospers. I feel myself to grow more poor inwardly; -I see, I am but a learner in the school of CHRIST, and my dear Master -teaches me new lessons every day. About a week ago, I think he did -more for me than ever I saw before. Glory be to GOD, that he is so -much with you at _London_. I rejoice, yea and I will rejoice. I am -amazed when I hear, as I do almost every day, of some fresh persons -wrought upon by my unworthy ministry. This humbles me very much, and -brings me very low at the feet of the ever-loving JESUS. I dare not -deny that I am one of his chosen; but I am jealous for myself and for -those about me, lest we should grieve the holy Spirit, and oblige him -to withdraw for our ingratitude, unfruitfulness, pride, selfishness, -and insensibility of the blessings we enjoy. Last night I went to -sleep quite angry, but chiefly with myself.――I saw that I had received -much, and did so little for my GOD, and CHRIST, that I could feelingly -smite upon my breast, lay my head upon my pillow, and close my eyes -with these words, “GOD be merciful to me a sinner?” And to-day, what -have I seen and felt, yea what do I now feel? My soul is swallowed -up in GOD. His presence is filling my soul, and renewing my bodily -strength. Here is free grace, my dear brother. Was you here, I think -I could now warm your heart with a lecture upon the unparalleled love -of JESUS; but time is short: blessed be GOD, an eternity is before me, -but “eternity too short to utter all his praise.” I think I love you -and yours unfeignedly, and rejoice that you enjoy sweet fellowship -together. Glory be to GOD, that you have gotten many living stones. -Trust the great Redeemer, the all-wise contriver and perfecter of his -spiritual temple, to put them together. I have been faulty in looking -too much to foreign help, and despising that which GOD had given me. -When our LORD was to feed the multitude, he would not create new bread, -but multiplied the loaves that were already at hand. “Ye need not send -them away, give ye them to eat,” said he: so say I to my dear brethren -at the tabernacle. “Work with the materials you have.” In doing the -work, GOD will teach you how to do it.――Experience will grow up with -the work itself. Thus GOD hath dealt with me, and so he continues to -deal. May his blessed spirit guide you all into all truth, and give -you a right judgment in all things! I love to see the little child in -others, though I see so little of it in my unworthy self. But I must -not exceed; other business demands my attention. Write to me often -about the state of the church. Mr. _E――――_’s people rather run greater -and greater lengths in misguided zeal. Our love to all. I intreat a -continuance of your prayers, because the archers are shooting from -every quarter at, dear brother _C――――_, - - Your poor weak brother in the kingdom - and patience of JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLI. - - _To Brother T――――, in London._ - - _Glasgow, September 4, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -I Hope this letter will find you, where your last left you, at the -feet of the meek and lowly JESUS. My dear brother, it is a delightful -situation: _Mary_ found it so. O true poverty of spirit, what a rare, -yet what a precious thing it is! The foundation of it, is a deep, -abiding knowledge of the corruption of the heart, and its desperate -wickedness. I find more and more the necessity of leaning upon my -beloved, whilst travelling through the wilderness of this world. -I find I am yet but learning in the school of CHRIST, and scarce -know any thing as I ought to know. I often blush at a sense of my -unfruitfulness, ingratitude, &c. and yet am made continually to -rejoice in his great salvation. My brother, press on and faint not; -though faint, yet still pursue. When your father and mother forsake -you, the LORD will take you up. I do not wonder at your father’s -opposition. His letter bespeaks him to be a man of a very bad spirit. -I thought proper to burn it. My brother, pray for him, and beg of -JESUS that you may behave with all meekness, humility and love. -I would enlarge, but time is short, and much of my dear Master’s -business is lying before me. For the present, adieu! My kind love -to all. May the LORD keep you unspotted from the world. You shall -overcome by the blood of the Lamb. We see wond’rous things here. Pray -and give thanks for - - Your affectionate friend, and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLII. - - _To Mr. B――――, in London._ - - _Glasgow, Sept. 4, 1742._ - _My dear Brother B――――_, - -I Embrace a few moments to answer your kind letter. Not want of love -but leisure prevented my doing it before; yet I have not forgotten you -in my prayers. Your case hath been upon my heart. I pray GOD you may -be enabled, at this time especially, to plead the promise of temporal -blessings. Remember, my dear brother, you can call GOD, your GOD -and Father: if so, your GOD will supply all your wants. These words -were so pressed upon my soul once when in extremity, that I hope -I shall never forget them: “Be careful for nothing, but by prayer -and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known -unto GOD.” I have for these eight or nine years past, had no visible -settled fund, but fetched in all temporal supplies by pleading the -promises. My GOD never failed me, he never will. This morning I have -been lecturing upon _Elisha_’s multiplying the widow’s oil. The LORD -GOD of _Elisha_ is yet living. O that you may have faith to apply to -him. O that you may be willing to be made poor. My brother, I find -freedom in writing to you. Blessed be GOD, who hath made any thing -that I have spoken of use to your soul. Tell your wife, she must take -my advice, and pray with you. She sins, I think, in omitting it. I -rejoice to hear that the LORD is with you at the tabernacle. May he be -with you more and more! My brother, GOD is doing wonders here indeed. -Every day he shews us great things. Yesterday, and the day before, -how did he display his power? I am lost when I think of it. O that GOD -should ever dwell with such an ill and hell-deserving wretch as I am! -Amazing! Thy mercies, O GOD, they humble me. Adieu. - - Your unworthy and affectionate friend and brother, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLIII. - - _To Mr. J―――― N――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 13, 1742._ - _My very dear brother N――――_, - -I Have just been writing to our dear brother _G―――― T――――_, and now -sit down to write to you. Both your letters came to me at the same -time, and had I not been used to trials of that nature, would have -affected me much. Dear Mr. _T――――_ speaks many things, that I know are -too true of the _Moravian Brethren_; but his spirit seems to be too -much heated, and I fear some of his own wild-fire is mixed with that -sacred fire of zeal, which comes from GOD. My dear brother, I want to -be more like unto GOD, who sees and corrects all things that are amiss, -and yet continues unmoved in his own nature. I want to be more like -unto JESUS, GOD blessed for evermore! who sees all the quarrels and -heart-risings of his children one amongst another, and yet bears with, -and loves them still. My heart doth not reproach me, for my kindness -and friendship with those that differ from me. I think I have been -led by the word and spirit of GOD into this part of my conduct; but -I confess that I am jealous, and trust with a godly jealousy, over -many who talk and write of the Lamb, and who mimic some particular -persons in their outward way of behaviour, but yet are not truly poor -in spirit. They act too much like me, who at my first setting out -imitated the outward shew of humility in Monsieur _Dezenly_, before I -got true simplicity of heart. Indeed, I have too little of it now. But, -blessed be GOD by his free grace, I am what I am. I think I can say I -am made unfeignedly happy in the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and can discover -in some measure between a false and disguised holiness. Glory be to -the Redeemer’s name, I walk in light and liberty, and am enabled to -rejoice in the LORD always. Though I can say to corruption, “Thou -art my sister,” yet I can with a full assurance of faith at all times -say, “GOD is my father, and all is mine, because I am CHRIST’s.” My -dear, very dear host and brother, I pray GOD that you and I may more -experience the glorious liberty of the children of GOD: a liberty -not from the in-being, but from the reigning power and dominion of -sin. JESUS came to make us kings, as well as priests, and it is our -privilege to reign upon the earth. We that believe, do enter into rest. -Faith is of an all-conquering nature, and causes us to trample sin, -death, and hell under our feet. My dear brother, I experience more, -unspeakably more of the Redeemer’s power, than when I saw you last. -My happiness increases daily, and I am persuaded will increase, ’till -grace is swallowed up in glory. My principles as to the fundamentals -of the gospel are just the same as yours. I cannot renounce those -precious truths, that I have felt the power of, and which were taught -me not of man but of GOD. At the same time, I would love all that love -JESUS, though they differ from me in some points. The angels love all -the true worshippers of JESUS every where, and why should not we? If -our brethren will quarrel with us, let us not quarrel with them. O my -dear brother, I pray our dear Redeemer to give you meekness to those, -who may not see so far as you do. I entreat you, my dear brother, to -overcome their evil with your good. Zeal for GOD may excite others -to oppose you, as well as you to oppose them; therefore bear with -and love them. This will shew you to be a disciple indeed, and to -have that mind, which was in CHRIST JESUS. O that we grew up into -his divine likeness, and were indeed conformed to our great Exemplar! -How truly simple and void of guilt should we be! Our brother, I fear, -has not dealt uprightly with me. At first he called me a servant of -GOD, and then a blasphemer and deceiver, and said, I should be in a -miserable condition. Pray tell _P――――_ of it, and acquaint him at the -same time, that I grow happier and happier in the Lamb every day, and -more and more honoured by the great Head and King of the Church. O -simplicity! whether art thou fled?――In a short time I hope to embark -for _Georgia_, and then, GOD willing, I shall see you face to face. -Wonderful things have been doing here; things unspeakable and full -of glory. The confusions abroad are no greater than what I expected -to hear of. Just such a scene hath been at home; but the glorious -_Emmanuel_ will over-rule all for good. Why have you not written to my -poor family in _Georgia_? I am persuaded great things will come from -the orphan-house. O remember, my dear brother, to exercise catholic -love in all its branches. I love and long much to see you. I shall -write, GOD willing, to Mr. _W――――_. I find his spirit is also -imbittered. May the LORD sweeten all your hearts! With hearty thanks -for all favours, I am, my very dear brother, - - Most affectionately yours in the glorious JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLIV. - - _To Mr. E――――, in Philadelphia._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 14, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -YOUR kind letter came to hand a few days ago, and I rejoice to hear -that you are now happy. I wish you may be really settled and rooted -and grounded in love, and no longer so tossed about as you have -been in times past. I find many talk and boast of rest, of which I -fear they have not yet got a feeling possession. There is as much -difference between these two, as between a shadow and the substance. -Far be it from me, to think thus of you, my dear brother. No, I -believe our Saviour has really loved and washed you in his blood, -and redeemed you unto GOD, that you might be a king and priest, and -reign upon the earth. There is plenteous redemption in the blood of -JESUS. He came, not only that we might have life, but that we might -have it more abundantly. He that believeth on JESUS, out of his belly -shall flow rivers of living water. They that believe enter into rest. -O glorious redemption! O glorious liberty of the children of GOD! -Blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed; they, -who having not seen, yet have loved JESUS, and do rejoice with joy -unspeakable, even with joy that is full of glory. Blessed be GOD, that -you feel more of this than you did a twelvemonth ago. In a year’s time, -you will be ashamed to think what a dwarf you are now. A believer is -to pass from glory to glory. It is ignorance and pride that makes us -think we have already attained. The more we are acquainted with JESUS, -the more we shall be acquainted with our own hearts, and grow more -truly poor in spirit every day. Indeed, my dear brother, I am a -thousand times happier than when you saw me. JESUS hath saved me from -many corruptions, and is every day transforming me more and more into -his own likeness. I cannot rest, unless I feel a sensible growth in -my soul, and find that I get more of the true artless simplicity that -was in JESUS. Blessed be GOD for that fulness which is in CHRIST, out -of which we are all to receive grace for grace. Many, many souls have -lately been drawing out of this fulness. I am amazed at his love to -me! O free grace! O sovereign, distinguishing, unmerited love!――I -think you did well in receiving some particular persons into your -house. “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers,” says the Apostle. I -cannot think it is right, to be so far carried away with an orthodox -scheme, as to neglect acts of love to the members of CHRIST’s body. -Give me leave, my dear brother, to behave with all meekness toward -those, who may not be so well affected toward such whom you love. If -you do not take care, and keep close to the blessed JESUS, your spirit -may be imbittered, and you may yet insensibly sink into bigotry. Some -of our _English_ friends, I am sure, have done so. It is a blessed -thing to be kept free. JESUS can do this for you, my dear brother, and -I am persuaded he will. In the love of a crucified JESUS, - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLV. - - _To Mr. M――――, at Cambuslang._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 15, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Brother_, - -YOUR kind letter I received this morning. I wonder you can love me, -for I feel myself more unworthy every day; and yet, dear Sir, the -King of Kings still delights to honour me. At _Cumbernauld_, and -_Torphichen_, the LORD was with me. I was much led to discourse upon -walking with GOD, and had a sweet opening upon those words, “And -_Enoch_ walked with GOD, &c.” Since I have been at _Edinburgh_, the -LORD has much blessed me, and given me some fresh teachings from his -blessed spirit. I believe hundreds are fed day by day. O dear Sir, -help me to adore free grace. May GOD reward you for all kindnesses -shewn to me and mine! Indeed, dear Sir, I have scarce patience with -myself. I can do so little in the day for GOD, that when I go to bed -at night, I am quite ashamed. I trust I shall begin to do something -now. Dear Sir, help me, help me by your prayers, that I may stir up -the gift of GOD that is in me. I shall not easily forget you; fear -not, the LORD will yet be with you. I have sent to Messrs. _O――――_ -and _L――――_. I fear I cannot reach either of their places; but, GOD -willing, I purpose to come home once more to _Cambuslang_, and then -must take a long, long farewel. Blessed be GOD, we shall meet by -and by, never to part any more. Then, dear Sir, our warfare will be -accomplished, and the archers will shoot at us no more. My soul glows -with love whilst I am writing. Sometimes I am enabled to look within -the veil, and to take a view of the promised land. I am nothing, but -CHRIST is my all. For the present, adieu! Dear Sir, adieu! My love to -_Robert_, surnamed _Nathaniel_. All with me dearly love him. O join -with him in praying, and giving thanks for us, especially, dear Mr. -_M――――_, for - - Your weak, unworthy, though happy brother - and servant in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLVI. - - _To Mr. F――――, in Pensylvania._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 22, 1742._ - _My dear Brother F――――_, - -I Received your two kind letters, dated _June_ the 1st and 6th, and -can only say, CHRIST is king in _Zion_, and orders all things well. -I think you cannot have a scene of greater confusion among you, than -there has been in _England_. But blessed be GOD, matters are brought -to a better issue, and though we cannot agree in principles, yet we -agree in love, Tho’, as you know, I am clear in the truths of the -gospel, yet I find that principles of themselves, without the spirit -of GOD, will not unite any set of men whatever; and where the spirit -of GOD is in any great degree, there will be union of heart, though -there may be difference in sentiments. This I have learnt, my dear -brother, by happy experience, and find great freedom and peace in my -soul thereby. This makes me to love many, though I cannot agree with -them in some of their principles. I dare not look upon them as wilful -deceivers, but as persons who hazard their lives for the sake of the -gospel.――Mr. _W――――_ I think is wrong in somethings, and Mr. _L――――_ -wrong also; yet I believe that both Mr. _L――――_ and Mr. _W――――_, and -others, with whom we do not agree in all things, will shine bright -in glory. It is best therefore for a gospel-minister, simply and -powerfully to preach those truths he has been taught of GOD, and -to meddle as little as possible with those who are children of GOD, -though they should differ in many things. This would keep the heart -sweet, and at the same time not betray the truths of JESUS. I have -tried both the disputing, and the quiet way, and find the latter -far preferable to the former. I have not given way to the _Moravian_ -Brethren, or Mr. _W――y_, or to any, whom I thought in an error, no -not for an hour. But I think it best not to dispute, when there is -no probability of convincing. I pray you, for CHRIST’s sake, to take -heed lest your spirit should be imbittered, when you are speaking or -writing for GOD. This will give your adversaries advantage over you, -and make people think your passion is the effect of your principles. -Since I have been in _England_ this time, _Calvin_’s example has been -very much pressed upon me. You know how _Luther_ abused him. As we -are of _Calvinistical_ principles, I trust we shall in this respect -imitate _Calvin_’s practice, and shew all meekness to those who may -oppose. My dear brother, you will not be offended at my using this -freedom. I am a poor creature, unworthy to advise you; but I simply -tell you a little of my own experience. May the LORD give you, and all -that stand up for the doctrines of the gospel, a right judgment in all -things! For JESUS CHRIST’s sake, as much as in you lies, put a stop -to disputing. It imbitters the spirit, ruffles the soul, and hinders -it from hearing the small still voice of the Holy Ghost. May you be -filled with all joy and peace in believing! GOD has been very gracious -to me here. Wonderful things have been done in _Scotland_. When I -shall come to you, I cannot as yet determine. I hope to embark in a -few months. In the mean time, be pleased to remember me to all that -love the glorious _Emmanuel_, and accept this in tenderest love from, -my very dear brother, - - Your most affectionate though most unworthy brother and servant - in the kingdom and patience of JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLVII. - - _To Mr. H――――._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 24, 1742._ - _My most endeared Friend and Brother_, - -YOUR short letter, dated _July_ the 14th, I received two days ago, -to my great satisfaction. I am glad my dear family is removed to Mr. -_B――――_, and rejoice, that our glorious GOD had raised him and his -brother up, to be such friends in time of need. Our all-wise Saviour -saw this, and therefore sent them to be converted at the Orphan-house. -O LORD, thou art fearful in praises, glorious in holiness, doing -wonders! I trust this will find you, my dear friends, and my dear -lambs, happily settled at _Bethesda_. I cannot think, GOD will give -you over into the enemies hands, or that he will suffer the enemy to -abide in _Georgia_ for any considerable time. My thoughts have been -variously exercised, but my heart kept stedfast and joyful in the -LORD of all Lords, whose mercy endureth for ever. The kings taking -_Lot_, and _Abraham_ recovering him out of their hands, hath been much -pressed upon my heart. _Abraham_’s going into the land of _Canaan_, -and being driven out by a grievous famine soon after he came there, -has also been applied to my soul. And those words of _Moses_, “These -enemies which you see, you shall see them no more,” have fallen with -great warmth, and wait upon me. These things put together, keep my -mind humbly depending upon GOD, in a full assurance that some great -and good event for the kingdom of JESUS will ere long be brought about. -I am supported in a peculiar manner, and kept from staggering through -unbelief.――With this, I send you a continuation of the Orphan-house -account, which I printed to satisfy the public, and to promote future -collections. The news about the _Spaniards_, perhaps may strike a damp -upon the collection at this time; but even this shall work for good. -GOD has a wheel within a wheel. O, my dear brother, how do I long -to be with you! You need not say, “if possible now come over,” for I -have long wished for the wings of a dove to fly to _Georgia_. I yet -owe upwards of two hundred and fifty pounds in _England_, upon the -Orphan-house account, and have nothing towards it. How is the world -mistaken about my circumstances: worth nothing myself, embarrassed for -others, and yet looked upon to flow in riches? Our extremity is GOD’s -opportunity. O faith, thou hast an all-conquering power! Surely, my -dear man, you and the rest of you will grow now in this time of trial. -Fear not, neither be dismayed: the LORD your GOD will fight for you. -I put my trust in him, and through his mercy I shall not miscarry. He -still strengthens me to go on from conquering to conquer. I pray for -you, I think and dream of you almost continually. I long, I long to -be with you, and methinks could willingly be found at the head of you -kneeling and praying, though a _Spaniard_’s sword should be put to my -throat. But alas! I know not how I should behave, if put to the trial: -only we have a promise, “that as our day is, so our strength shall -be.” I would gladly write to you all, but being so variously employed, -having the superintendency of so many souls and so many spiritual -affairs, in many different places, I feel a little of what St. _Paul_ -says, when he wrote these words, “besides that which cometh upon me -daily, the care of all the churches.” What am I? LORD, I adore and -worship! I hope ere now you have had letters from brother _G――――_ and -_Philadelphia_ friends. Some there, are suspicious that I am joined -with the _Moravian_ Brethren, but indeed I am not. My principles are -still the same; only as I believe many of them love the LORD JESUS, I -would love and be friendly to them, as I would be to all others, who -I think bear the image of our common Master, notwithstanding some -of my principles differ from theirs, and are as far distant as the -East is from the West. Glory be to GOD, for keeping me stedfast -to those truths, which himself and not man hath taught me. I feel -the power of them more and more every day, and am continually made -happier and happier in the righteousness of the glorious Redeemer. -O free, sovereign, distinguishing, electing, everlasting, infinitely -condescending love! it quite amazes me. The thoughts of this love -carry me above every thing. My dear friend, the _Spaniards_ cannot -rob us of this, nor can men, or devils. It is immutable and eternal as -GOD himself. May the meditation on this, lead us nearer and nearer to -GOD in CHRIST, that we may every day, every hour, every moment be more -and more conformed to his blessed image, and ripen more and more for -eternal glory. But I must have done. Adieu! my dear man, adieu! I am -ready to weep tears of love. Humbly hoping, that I shall shortly hear -of the spiritual and temporal welfare of you all, I subscribe myself, -with the utmost sincerity and affection, - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLVIII. - - _To the Reverend Dr. C――――, in Boston._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 24, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -TO my great and abundant satisfaction, I received your long wished for -letter of _June 3_. It was late at night ere it came to hand; but I -could not go to rest without reading it. I read, and rejoiced, and -prayed for the writer with my whole heart. O reverend and dear Sir, -GOD only knows how closely I am knit to the dear ministers and people -of _New-England_. They are ever upon my heart, and it rejoiced me to -find I was not forgotten (unworthy as I am) by them. Dear Sir, I am -glad to hear that the work still goes on; be not surprized, if you -are forsaken. _Paul_ was served so, and when I came to _England_ most -of my old friends and spiritual children were exceedingly prejudiced -against me. Our great high-priest sees these trials to be necessary -for us, to try our faith, and teach us to cease from man. I hope they -have produced this blessed effect in some measure upon my soul. There -seems to be such a scene in _Philadelphia_, as we have had in old -_England_. I have wrote to Mr. _T――――_. He in a late letter thinks me -too charitable; but my conscience doth not reproach me for that. My -principles are still the same. I embrace the calvinistical scheme, -not because _Calvin_, but JESUS CHRIST, I think, has taught it to me. -I go on preaching the cross and power of the Redeemer, and desire to -say as little as possible about others, lest thereby I should divert -people’s minds from the simplicity of the gospel. I have often found -that opposing, instead of hurting, makes erroneous people become more -considerable. This made me wish, that the _Boston_ ministers would not -take up so much time in speaking against the Exhorters. It will only -set the people the more upon following after them; but I cannot well -judge at such a distance, and indeed I find I am such a poor creature, -that I scarce know any thing yet, as I ought to know. At the same time, -I will not deny what I have received; no, this would be dishonouring -my dear Saviour. He makes me daily more and more happy in himself, and -I continually rejoice in his great salvation. At present he supports -me in an uncommon manner, and the news of the _Spaniards_ attacking -_Georgia_ affects me no otherwise, than to increase my faith and -confidence in him, whom I am sure careth for me and mine. O dear -Sir, what a glorious thing is divine faith! May you have much of -it, and feel the power of it more and more every day! With repeated -salutations and returns of love, I once more subscribe myself, -reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend, younger brother, and servant - in the glorious gospel of the ever blessed JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLIX. - - _To Jonathan B――――, Esq., in New-England._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 25, 1742._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -I Rejoiced to hear by the reverend and dear Dr. _C――――_, that you are -retired from the world, full of piety and devotion. I congratulate you, -honoured Sir, upon your happy change, and pray that you may be filled -with all the fulness of GOD. Exceedingly engaged as I am, I could -not but send a line to you, because I love you in the bowels of JESUS -CHRIST. I remember your command; I have you upon my heart, and pray -the glorious _Emmanuel_ to do more abundantly for you and yours, than -you are able to ask or think. It is impossible to tell you what the -LORD hath done for unworthy me. Honoured Sir, I feel a bliss I cannot -express. My happiness in JESUS increases daily. I am only ashamed -of my unfruitfulness, and the little I do for GOD. Indeed, honoured -Sir, I could wish for a thousand lives. My JESUS should have them all. -Methinks I hear you say, “thus it is with me.” Hail then happy man! -All generations shall call you blessed. Honoured Sir, my soul is full -in the midst of many trials. O what a glorious redemption hath JESUS -purchased for us! Indeed it is a plenteous redemption. By the power -of his death we are enabled to tread sin, death, and satan under our -feet. This is the present frame of my soul. O free grace! unsearchable -riches! The brightness of it dazzles the eyes of my faith. LORD, I -adore and worship in the temple of my heart! Honoured Sir, be pleased -to accept these few lines from a heart overflowing with love to GOD, -and for his great name sake to you. With most humble respects, and -affectionate returns of gratitude for all favours, I beg leave to -subscribe myself, honoured Sir, - - Your most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLX. - - _To Mr. E――――, in Philadelphia._ - - _Edinburgh, Sept. 25, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother E――――_, - -SINCE I wrote last, your other kind letter, dated _July 24_, came -to hand, by which I find matters at _Philadelphia_ are much the same -as when you wrote before. I pray GOD to give me wisdom, and a right -understanding, to judge of those different jarring accounts that -are sent me. As far as I am able to determine, I think some who have -the truths of GOD on their side, defend themselves with too great a -mixture of their own spirit, and by this means perhaps some persons -may be prejudiced even against truth itself. This is one rock, I pray -GOD, my dear brother, to keep your soul from splitting against. Again, -I think the _M――――n_ Brethren shew a better and milder spirit in the -general; but many of their principles deviate as far from the truths -of JESUS CHRIST, as the east is from the west, or the north from the -south. I wish you may not have gone a step too far. It was unjust -for Mr. _B――――_’s brother to be denied preaching in the new building. -Shall I commend Mr. _B――――_ for this? I commend him not. The brethren -should have some other place to preach in, and not make that house a -Babel. I cannot give up truth for them, or for any other under heaven. -I find they are as weak and fallible as those whom they judge not to -have drank so deeply of the spirit of CHRIST; and therefore, my dear -man, though we love all, we must be upon our guard, and follow not -man’s teaching, but the teaching of the Holy Ghost. Though principles -are not to be rested in, yet it is a good thing to have a clear head -as well as a clean heart. Some people make nothing of principles; but -why are they so zealous in propagating their own? I think, my dear -brother, I am a happy sinner, and have really entered into an abiding -rest in GOD, through the LORD JESUS CHRIST; but yet the stirrings of -corruption I expect in some degree or other, till I breathe my last. -This I hope is all that dear Mr. _T――――_ insists on. My dear brother, -love the brotherhood, but do not give up the truths of GOD; and when -you are brought off from idolizing one creature, take care you do not -insensibly fall into idolizing another. Do not think that all things -the most refined christian in the world does, is right; or that all -principles are wrong, because some that hold them are too imbittered -in their spirits. It is hard for good men, when the truths of GOD are -opposed, to keep their temper, especially at the first attack. Nothing -but the all-conquering blood of the dear Redeemer can destroy the -wild-fire in the heart. You will see what I have wrote to the dear -Trustees. I hope our loving Saviour will incline you to comply with my -advice. I believe it is from him, and will much tend to the prosperity -of Zion. That, I trust, we have all at heart. I pray GOD we may be -enabled so to act, as to do nothing to obstruct it, but bear and -forbear with one another in love, and give way in some things to -promote the common good. You see, my dear man, how freely I write -to you. It is out of the fulness of my heart. I hope you and I shall -be happily surprized, in finding each other better than we expected. -GOD forbid that we should live one hour without growing more like the -blessed Lamb of GOD. I am too credibly informed, that some make it -their business to prejudice my friends against me. Such wisdom cometh -not from above. They are as the false apostles, of whom Saint _Paul_ -spoke, “They would exclude us, that you might affect them.” But glory -be to free grace! I can repose myself in JESUS, and am happy in him. -However I may be dealt with by man, blessed be his name, I am now -happy in the midst of various trials, even beyond expression. I only -add, through grace I have laid the foundation; let others beware how -they build thereon. Adieu, my dear brother. I am, with cordial -respects and affection, - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXI. - - _To the Reverend Mr. E―――― J――――, in Wales._ - - _Edinburgh, Oct. 6, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -YESTERDAY your kind and profitable letter came to hand. My dear wife -being embarked, I opened, read, and now snatch a few moments to answer -it. I took your hints upon _Jacob_’s ladder, and preached upon it -with freedom yesterday in the afternoon. I trust some will be induced -to begin to climb, and others be stirred to climb faster; at least I -shall myself for one, for indeed I am ashamed I have mounted no higher -yet. Blessed be GOD, I am ascended so far as to have the world almost -out of my sight, and I see my dear master standing at the top reaching -out his hand, ready to receive me up into heaven. Indeed, my dear -brother, the LORD hath dealt most bountifully with me; he gives me to -rejoice in all his dispensations towards me. It well becometh GOD’s -children to give thanks for all things that befal them, since it is -GOD ’s will concerning them. I am taught more and more every day to -live by faith in the Son of GOD, who loved and gave himself for me. -GOD keeps me, and brings me where I would desire to be, at his feet, -waiting his will, and watching the motions of his blessed spirit, -word, and providence. Here I find safety and refuge amidst the various -storms of opposition and reproach which I daily meet with. GOD is on -my side, I will not fear what men nor devils can say of, or do unto me. -The dear Messrs. _E――――s_ have dressed me in very black colours.――Mr. -_G――――_’s pamphlet will shew you how black. Dear men, I pity them. -Writing I fear will be in vain. Surely they must grieve the holy -spirit much. O for a mind divested of all sects and names and parties! -I think it is my one simple aim to promote the kingdom of JESUS, -without partiality and without hypocrisy, indefinitely amongst all. -I care not if the name of _George Whitefield_ be banished out of the -world, so that JESUS be exalted in it. Glory be to his great name, we -have seen much of his power and greatness in _Scotland_. The work in -the west still goes on and increases. Last sabbath-day, and _Monday_, -very great things, greater than ever, were seen at _Kilsyth_. There -is a great awakening also at _Muthel_, and many living stones building -up in _Edinburgh_. I preach twice every day with great power, and -walk in liberty and love. At the same time I see and feel my vileness, -and take the blessed JESUS to be my righteousness and all. I purpose, -GOD willing, to go through _Newcastle_ and _Yorkshire_ to _England_. -_Ireland_ I believe must be left till another circuit. In about three -weeks, I purpose, GOD willing, to leave _Scotland_, and hope to spend -a month ere long in _Wales_. My dear and honoured brother, I hope the -LORD will give you an heart to pray for me, for indeed I am a very -poor sinner, and many are waiting for my halting; but JESUS is able -and willing to make me stand. I have been much strengthened, since -the _Spaniards_ have invaded _Georgia_. I think I am like the ark -surrounded on all sides with waves, but through free rich grace am -enabled to swim above all. Ere long, I shall rest on mount _Zion_ in -the arms of my beloved JESUS. Here is love would make me drop a tear, -and set my pen a writing quicker, but other business calls for me. -Dear Sir, be pleased to pray for me, and remember me to your dear -wife, and all the followers of the Lamb. Pray write to Mr. _McC――――_ -immediately, and send as often as you can, dear Mr. _J――――_, to - - Your weak, unworthy, but truly affectionate brother and servant, - in the kingdom and patience of JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXII. - - _To Colonel G――――._ - - _Edinburgh, October 7, 1742._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -THOUGH I never had the pleasure of seeing you, yet I have often prayed -for you, and can assure you I love you in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST. -I hope you will not be offended with me, for troubling you with -this. Your honoured lady tells me, you will not. Love, I am persuaded, -inclines me to write, and I doubt not but you will receive it in the -same spirit. Dear Sir, I rejoice to hear that you are a good soldier -of JESUS CHRIST, and that you delight to fight the Redeemer’s battles. -May you be covered with all his armours and filled with all his -fulness! I have the pleasure often to go without the camp, and to bear -a little of his sacred reproach, and I prefer it to all the treasures -in the world. Weak as I am, my JESUS makes me more than conqueror -through his love. He has brought mighty things to pass here, and -gotten himself the victory in many hearts. I trust, there is not a -day passes but some poor creature or another is plucked as a brand out -of the burning. I wish I could hear GOD was more in the camp. Blessed -be his name for raising you up, honoured Sir, to lift a standard -for him. May you be endued with the meekness of _Moses_, the courage -of _Joshua_, the zeal of _Paul_, and a large portion of the blessed -spirit of CHRIST! I hope, honoured Sir, you will now and then remember -me a poor sinner, and speak a word for me to the King of kings and -LORD of lords, that I may not turn my head in the day of battle, but -rather die for, than deny him in any wise. Neither you nor yours are -forgotten by me. Indeed I am a poor creature, but happy, very happy in -the once crucified, but now exalted JESUS. For his sake, and in his -great name, I beg leave to subscribe myself, honoured Sir, - - Your affectionate humble servant, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXIII. - - _To the Reverend Mr. J―――― W――――._ - - _Edinburgh, October 11, 1742._ - _Reverend and dear Sir_, - -ABOUT ten days ago, I sent you a packet by my dear wife, which I hope -you will have received ere this comes to hand. Yesterday morning I -had your kind letter dated _October 5_. In answer to the first part -of it, I say, “Let old things pass away, and all things become new.” -I can heartily say, “Amen” to the latter part of it. “Let the king -live for ever, and controversy die.” It has died with me long ago. I -shall be glad to see the extract of your journal. Be pleased to send -it immediately, under cover, to Mr. _E――――_, member of parliament in -_Edinburgh_. I shall not leave _Scotland_ in less than three weeks. -Before yours came, I had engaged to go through _Newcastle_ in my -way to _London_. I rejoice to hear the LORD has blessed your dear -brother’s labours. I am enabled to preach twice daily with great power, -and find I walk in light and liberty continually. Like the ark, I am -surrounded on all sides, but enabled to swim triumphantly over all. O -free grace! I thank you, dear Sir, for praying for me, and thank our -common LORD for putting it in your heart so to do. I have been upon my -knees praying for you and yours. O that nothing but love, lowliness, -and simplicity may be among us. It grieves me to see what a sad spirit -prevails among Mr. _E――――_’s people. Father, forgive them! I trust -you will remember my poor orphans. GOD gives me strong faith for them, -though no news yet of the _Spaniards_ leaving _Georgia_. Yesterday -morning a dear little hospital girl went off in triumph. The work -is still increasing in _Scotland_, especially at _Kilsyth_. Surely -we shall see great things ere long. Dear friend, my soul is on fire. -O let us not fall out in the way! Let us bear with, and forbear one -another in love. GOD be praised for giving you such a mind. My kind -love to all that love the LORD JESUS in sincerity. In much haste, and -with great thanks for your last letter, I subscribe myself, reverend -and very dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate, though younger brother, in the gospel - of our glorious _Emmanuel_, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXIV. - - _To Mrs. Ann D――――, in Huntingdonshire._ - - _Edinburgh, October 13, 1742._ - _My very dear Sister_, - -WITH great pleasure I received your kind letters. They increased that -love, which I had before to the writer of them. I redeem a few moments -to return you an answer to them, and am ashamed to think how I put -you off; but I see you consider my circumstances, and love to our dear -JESUS inclines you to excuse me. Blessed be GOD, I can still send you -an account of the increase of _Emmanuel_’s kingdom. I preach always -twice, sometimes three or four times in a day. The people are more -eager than ever, and much solid work is done for GOD. My strength -is daily renewed. Still I desire to cry, grace! grace! I am fondled -exceedingly, I scarce have any damp. My soul continually magnifies the -LORD, and my spirit rejoices in GOD my Saviour. I know you will help -me to praise him. I collected last week 128 _l._ for my poor orphans. -I have sent you an account of them. You will continue writing to, and -praying for my dear family. I hope to see you before I embark. By this, -you will receive a line from one Mr. _R――――_, an humble walker with -GOD, and Mr. _T――――_, a bookseller, who I believe loves the LORD -JESUS in sincerity. Pray answer them. I would have your correspondence -enlarged, and therefore I set other people writing to you, though I -cannot write so much myself. My dear sister, adieu. The LORD be with -you, and yours. I am now in a lady’s family, whom GOD has blessed.――We -have several such here. With great sincerity and affection, I -subscribe myself, - - Ever yours, in yours and mine, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXV. - - _To Mr. T――――, in Edinburgh._ - - _Glasgow, October 20, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. T――――_, - -YOUR letter much refreshed me. Thanks be to GOD, for putting it -into your heart to write to unworthy me. The blessed JESUS hath been -the author of our friendship, and therefore it will be blessed. I -rejoice much, that the LORD is with you and your ministers. May you -all increase with all the increase of GOD! O that the societies may -remember to pray and give thanks on my behalf. Dear Mr. _T――――_, what -deliverances hath the LORD wrought for me? Before the news came of the -_Spaniards_ leaving _Georgia_, the words came to my mind, that were -pressed on me in the park with great power: “These enemies which you -have now seen, you shall see no more.” What a life is a life of faith? -I know I am reckoned enthusiastic, even by many christian friends, -in respect to my Orphan-house; but “he that believeth, doth not make -haste.” I find we must be tried by friends, as well as by foes. All is -intended to bring us nearer to the friend of all. I hope I improved my -interest in him just now, for you and yours, and for all _Edinburgh_ -friends. As soon as we had perused the letters, we kneeled down, and -prayed, and gave thanks. Good news came from _London_, I hope, next -post, to hear that our dear friends have got safe thither. O what -reason have I to be thankful! Help me still, my dear Mr. _T――――_, to -praise the LORD. I hope to be with you next week. In the mean time -pray for, and if leisure permit, drop a line to, dear Mr. _T――――_, - - Ever yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXVI. - - _To Mr. J―――― T――――, in Edinburgh._ - - _London, Nov. 6, 1742._ - _Dear Mr. T――――_, - -ABOUT five this evening, our ever blessed JESUS brought us hither, -and gave us a happy meeting with our dear friends. How good is JESUS -to the chief of sinners! He solaced my soul all the way, and gave his -angels charge concerning us, otherwise we must have been frequently -hurt in our ways: but he heard the prayers of his people. I am -persuaded he gave them a spirit of supplication in our behalf. I felt -it, I feel it now, and long to preach again. My dear friend, remember -us in the dearest manner to all. I hope to write to several on -_Monday_ next. How sweet is rest after fatigue! How sweet will heaven -be, when our journey is ended. Forgive the brevity of this. - - Ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXVII. - - _To Mr. J―――― H――――, at Bethesda._ - - _London, Nov. 12, 1742._ - _My dearest Friend and Brother in a crucified JESUS_, - -HOW do I long to come over to see you, and the rest of my dear family? -How do I long to hear how it is with your dear souls, and that you -are returned to _Bethesda_ in safety! The cloud seems now to be -moving toward _America_. I trust I shall be with you in a few months. -Wonderful great things did the LORD perform for me and his people -in _Scotland_. The concern expressed at my departure, was really -unspeakable. O my dear, my very dear brother, the love of GOD to such -an unworthy wretch quite amazes me. I rode post, and came here in -rather less than five days from _Edinburgh_ on _Saturday_ last, and -here seems to be a new awakening. We have been obliged to enlarge the -tabernacle. The LORD’s glory does indeed appear in it. Dear brother -_H――――_ has been sent with a sweet searching commission. Brother -_C――――_ is much blest in _Wiltshire_. The word runs and is glorified -in _Wales_, and GOD is raising some fresh witnesses of the power of -his dear Son’s blood in _Gloucestershire_. Blessed are the eyes that -see the things that we see. GOD doth greatly countenance us indeed. O -free grace! O electing love! The collections in _Scotland_ were large. -At _Edinburgh_, I collected 128 _l._ at one time, and 44 _l._ at -another; at _Glasgow_ about 128 _l._ with private donations. I think -we got about 300 _l._ in all. Blessed be GOD, I owe nothing now in -_England_ on the Orphan-house account; what is due is abroad. I think -since I have been in _England_, we have got near 1500 _l._ The LORD -will raise up what we want further; glory be to his name. He keeps my -faith from failing, and upholds me with his right hand, and makes me -happier in himself every day. My wife lies now very weak. She was -tossed for ten days in her voyage from _Scotland_: The ship was in -imminent danger, but the LORD gave her much of his presence, and I -trust she will be ready shortly for another voyage. She heartily and -most lovingly greets you all, as does in haste, - - Ever, ever yours, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXVIII. - - _To Lady Frances G――――._ - - _London, Nov. 13, 1742._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -MINDFUL of my promise, which I made before I left _Edinburgh_, I -now steal a few moments to send your Ladyship a letter of thanks, -and which I trust will find you sitting under the Redeemer’s shadow -with great delight. It rejoiced me when I heard that our infinitely -condescending GOD had blessed my unworthy ministry, to recover your -Ladyship from a state of darkness and spiritual desertion. Glory, -glory be to rich, free and sovereign grace! I trust your Ladyship -will now be kept in the love of GOD, and no idol interpose between the -Redeemer and your soul. I hope the dear Colonel is now in his proper -place, and that you can think of him without anxiety or distracting -care. This is that freedom, wherewith JESUS CHRIST makes us free. -To love all things in him, and for him, and to love him above all. -Thus we have peace and joy. Whenever we deviate from it, we fall into -darkness and distress of soul. I pray GOD your Ladyship may be thus -kept, and enabled to rejoice in GOD all the day long. For ever adored -be free grace. I have enjoyed much freedom of soul since I left -_Edinburgh_. Very good was my master to us on the road, and still -better to me now I am in _London_. We have blessed seasons. O who can -express the loving-kindness of the LORD, or show forth all his praise! -We beg your prayers; and wishing you and your honoured Colonel all -manner of prosperity, I beg leave to subscribe myself, with unfeigned -thanks for all past favours, honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXIX. - - _To Miss S――――._ - - _London, Nov. 13, 1742._ - -AS I have been writing to the honourable lady _Frances_, I am willing -to inclose a line to you. I trust it will find you walking by faith, -and trampling upon the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the -pride of life. This is the happiness which JESUS CHRIST has purchased -for poor sinners. This is that better part, which I hope you have been -enabled to choose, and in which, I trust, through grace you will be -enabled to persevere even to the end. Dear Miss, if this be the case, -well will it be with you, and happy, exceedingly happy shall you be. -Methinks I hear you say, “I feel my happiness begun.” Keep close, Dear -Miss, keep close to the lovely JESUS, and you will find it increase -day by day. Many, many temptations and difficulties you will meet -with; but fear not; look unto JESUS, and he will make you more than -conqueror through his love. Never rest without looking up to him, in -and for every thing you stand in need of. He will richly supply all -your wants. I speak this by happy experience. Many blessings have I -received since I came hither. O help me to praise our prayer-hearing -GOD. - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXX. - - _To the Honourable Lady Jane H――――, in Edinburgh._ - - _London, Nov. 13, 1742._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -IT is with some regret, that I look back upon my not writing to you, -when I was at _Glasgow_. I resolved ever since, to send your Ladyship -a line as soon as possible, after I reached _London_. Being now -somewhat settled, I attempt in the divine strength to put my design -in execution. And now, honoured Madam, what shall I say? I hope this -will find you a very poor sinner, and sitting at JESU’s feet. With -pleasure I have often thought your Ladyship has been made willing to -become truly, inly poor, and to feel the full power of the Redeemer’s -precious blood. If I mistake not, your soul is athirst for GOD, yea -to be filled with all the fulness of GOD. Go on, dear Madam, for GOD -shall satisfy all your desires: He has promised, and he will perform. -I find my happiness in JESUS increasing daily, and that there is no -end of his goodness. Greatly did he strengthen me on the road; greatly -has he blessed me since I came hither. I believe your Ladyship will -hear shortly from Mr. _H――――_. He is a dear soul indeed, and left -_London_ on _Thursday_ morning last, full of simplicity and love. -The work goes on bravely in _Wales_, and elsewhere. Surely it is the -midnight cry; Surely the bridegroom is coming. Methinks I hear your -Ladyship say, “Then I will make ready to go forth to meet him.” That -you may be always ready to obey the most sudden call, is the hearty -prayer of, honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s most obliged humble servant in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXI. - - _To Miss N――――’s._ - - _London, Nov. 13, 1742._ - _Dear young Ladies_, - -THIS week I wrote a few lines to your honoured mamma. I now snatch a -few moments to send a line to you. And why? Because I love you both -in the bowels of JESUS CHRIST, and wish above all things, that your -dear souls may prosper. I saw a happy alteration in you for the better, -whilst I was at _Edinburgh_, and my constant prayer is, that you -might still go on from strength to strength. Here seems to be a new -awakening. We had a glorious fast-day indeed. I trust you had the -same at _Edinburgh_. I am sure we prayed heartily, it might be so. O -_Edinburgh! Edinburgh!_ I think I shall never forget thee. Surely many -can say, “Our fellowship has been with the Father and with the Son.” -And now though absent, we may have fellowship together in and through -the eternal Spirit. Thus it is with me, and thus it is, I believe, -with my dear wife. She most heartily joins with me in saluting your -most honoured mamma, as well as yourselves. Wishing that your lamps -may be always trimmed, and your loins always girded, and that you may -be continually in readiness to meet the heavenly bridegroom; I -subscribe myself, dear young ladies, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXII. - - _To ――――._ - - _London, Nov. 15, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -IT has given me some concern, that I could not write to your Lordship -before I left _E――――_. My departure from thence was very sudden, and -it was but a few days before that I heard of your Lordship’s illness. -However, I have not been unmindful of your Lordship, and I trust, in -answer to prayer, our LORD has rebuked your fever, and that this will -find you risen and ministring unto him. O, my Lord, I think I can say, -“It is good for me that I have been afflicted;” for had it not been so, -I should have gone astray. How apt are we when in health, to follow -JESUS afar off, and sink into tepidity and a laodicean spirit? May -this sickness be sanctified to the purging of your Lordship’s soul, -and be a means of drawing you nearer to GOD! Our glorious High-priest -still continues to load me with his benefits. He dealt most tenderly -with me on the road, and blesses me much here. I am now in my winter -quarters, preparing for a fresh campaign. Happy they that fight under -the Redeemer’s banner! That your Lordship may be always fighting the -good fight of faith, and at length lay hold on eternal life, is the -earnest prayer of, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient and obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXIII. - - _To Mr. S――――, of Bristol._ - - _London, Nov. 15, 1742._ - _My dear Brother S――――_, - -I Gave thanks on your behalf, when I read your letters; being -encouraged thereby to hope, that JESUS CHRIST is indeed about to -take full possession of your soul. A proper season this to enter into -the marriage state, an union representing the mystical union between -JESUS CHRIST and his Church. My brother, you cannot think of it with -too much solemnity. It is a matter of great importance, in which the -future comfort of your life much depends. I would advise you to read -over the matrimonial office, and turn it into a prayer. As for outward -affairs, I think it quite proper to have them settled, as I am a -minister of JESUS CHRIST, and ought therefore to be freed as much -as may be from all worldly incumbrances. Be pleased to draw out your -account, and when the captain comes, desire him to draw out his, that -receipts may pass on both sides. I shall pay Mr. _N――――_ as desired. -I am glad you are so friendly with Mr. _W――――_. I trust we shall learn -more and more to love one another. - - Yours most affectionately in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXIV. - - _To the Bishop of Bangor._ - - _London, Nov. 17, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -THE inclosed was sent by a young man, who was coming up to _London_, -and was in his way as far as _Ludlow_, on purpose to wait on your -Lordship about the contents of it. If your Lordship pleases, I will -wait upon your Lordship for your Lordship’s answer. The character -your Lordship has for candour and moderation, makes me believe, your -Lordship will not favour any persecuting proceedings against those -that love the LORD JESUS in sincerity. If your Lordship thinks proper -to speak with me, upon the least intimation, you shall be attended by, -my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXV. - - _To Mr. J――――, of Toven in Wales._ - - _London, Nov. 18, 1742._ - _My dear Brother_, - -HOW sweetly does the blessed JESUS guide the meek in his way! I -believe your turning back from _Ludlow_ was of GOD. Dear brother -_H――――_ was about that time going into _Wales_, and the LORD sending -me hither (unworthy as I am) to transact affairs for you. I have seen -your letter to Mr. _L――――_, and likewise that from brother _C――――_, -to the bishop of _Bangor_. I am just now sending it to him, with a -letter from myself, desiring leave to wait upon his Lordship. What -the event will be, our LORD only knows. This, however, we know, “All -things shall work together for good to those that love GOD;” and the -gates of hell shall never prevail against the church of JESUS CHRIST. -What you have met with, is no more than might be expected long ago. -There has been a hook in the Leviathan’s jaws, or otherwise our mouths -had been stopped long before this time. I had once the honour of -being publickly arraigned, for not reading the Common Prayer in -a Meeting-house. At another time, I was taken up by a warrant for -correcting a letter wherein were these words, “Shall our Clergy break -the Canons.” The prosecutions were unjust, but there is our glory. -I remember when _Socrates_ was about to suffer, his friends grieved, -that he suffered unjustly. What, says he, would you have me suffer -justly? If we are buffetted for our faults, and take it patiently, -says a greater than _Socrates_, we are not to glory; “but if we are -reproached for CHRIST, and suffer as Christians, happy are we.” I -think our present sufferings are for him. Surely the spirit of CHRIST -and of glory will rest upon you. However, I trust this storm will -soon blow over. If possible, let an open separation from the church -be avoided. Mr. _H――――_ can tell you more by word of mouth. I trust -the glorious JESUS has sent him amongst you, in the fulness of the -blessing of the gospel of peace. He is a dear soul. I am persuaded you -are dear to him: I find you are dear to me, though I never saw you. -It is enough, that we have drank into one spirit. This creates an -indissoluble union. Pray remember my kind love to dear brother _C――――_. -I wish him joy with all my heart; but would not have him deny that -exhorting is preaching. The Chancellor will be too many for him; for -to be sure, exhorting is at least one part of preaching. Granting this, -he has warrant enough, notwithstanding, from scripture, to tell others -what GOD has done for his soul, and to bid them come and see and -believe in a precious CHRIST. O that word! How sweet is it to my soul? -It is like ointment poured forth. Had I time, I could tell you much of -his love. He has been exceeding good to me in _Scotland_: He is still -so to me here. Vile, base, ungrateful as I am, he lets me lean on his -bosom night and day. My dear brother, help me to praise him, and -engage all the brethren’s prayers in behalf of one, less than the -least of all saints, but - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXVI. - - _To the Reverend Dr. C――――, in Boston._ - - _London, Nov. 18, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -GLAD was I to receive another letter from you, before I sent off my -packets. I thank our loving LORD, for granting me the continuance -of his ministers affections. I hope this, and all his other mercies, -will lead me nearer and nearer to himself the fountain of all -mercies. Surely the friends of JESUS pray in my behalf; for I am still -strengthened more than ever, and enabled to rejoice in his goodness -all the day long. The confusion at _New-England_ has given me concern; -but our LORD will over-rule all for good. I was sorry to hear of -Mr. _D――――_’s imprisonment; and to be imprisoned for an unguarded -expression, I think is too, too severe, and not for the honour of -_Boston_ at all. Had I been in his place, I should have accepted bail. -When I shall come to _Boston_, the LORD JESUS only knows. I believe -it will not be long. I find I shall come in perilous times; but that -all-gracious Saviour, who has helped me hitherto, will guide me by -his council, and give me a true scriptural zeal. This is what I desire -all my friends to beg in my behalf. How hard is it to keep in the -true narrow path, when speaking for the LORD JESUS? GOD preserve me, -and all his ministers, from defending his truths and cause in our own, -or under the influence of a false spirit! It destroys the very cause -we would defend. As yet, in _Scotland_ there have been but few of -the disorders complained of amongst you. But as the work increases, I -suppose the enemies stratagems will increase also. This is my comfort, -JESUS reigns. The gates of hell shall never be able to prevail against -his church. I have had a late instance of his power and goodness, -in driving the _Spaniards_ out of _Georgia_. I hear they are gone. -I hope the Orphans are now at _Bethesda_ in peace. The continuation -of my account, I have sent with this, and a parcel of my sermons. Be -pleased to dispose of them, as you shall think proper. I salute all my -Reverend brethren that preach JESUS CHRIST in sincerity. I wish them -prosperity with all my heart, and pray for them every day, Reverend -Sir, my soul is now filled with a sense of redeeming love. O why me, -LORD, why me? Even so my Saviour, for so it seemed good in thy sight! -But I can write no more, having much business on my hands. We go on -well here. Our LORD blesses us much. I am, with much affection, Rev. -Sir, - - Your most unworthy and younger brother - in the gospel of JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXVII. - - _To Mr. J―――― E――――._ - - _London, Nov. 18, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -YOUR letter pleased me much. As soon as I read it, I kneeled down, -prayed, and gave thanks on your behalf. How faithful is he that hath -said, “I will never leave thee, or forsake thee.” Surely the LORD -intends to honour you, in making you an instrument in bringing many -sons to glory. I hope he will bless your first public essays to serve -the interest of his great name, and enable you to go on from strength -to strength. I cannot think you will be long without a feeling -possession of your GOD. Shortly, I trust, you will be touched with a -coal from the heavenly altar, and be made to say, “LORD send me.” I -think our Saviour has given you great knowledge in the scriptures. May -you be kept close to and be daily taught of him. My prayer for you is, - - _Take his poor heart, and let it be - For ever clos’d to all but thee._ - -I think you may study conveniently in _Scotland_; but in this and -every thing else, I pray the LORD JESUS to direct and guide your soul. -I most heartily love you, and wish you prosperity in the name of the -LORD. Our blessed Saviour has been exceeding kind, since I have been -here. I go on my way rejoicing, and am strengthened day by day. That -you may abundantly experience the same, is the hearty prayer of, dear -Sir, - - Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXVIII. - - _To Mr. M――――, Isle of Man._ - - _London, Nov. 19, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -I Am concerned to find by your last, dated _November 4th_, that the -letter I sent you from _Scotland_ did not come to hand. But providence -over-ruleth all things; even this shall work for good. I wonder -not, if the LORD has given you more zeal, that you meet with more -opposition. However, I would not have you rash, or over hasty in -leaving the _Isle of Man_. Wait, continue instant in prayer, and you -shall see the salvation of GOD. I have not heard from my family abroad -for some time, and cannot give you any determinate answer about your -going to _Georgia_, because I know not how their affairs stand. GOD -will yet shew you what he would have you to do. Even so LORD JESUS, -Amen and Amen! Our glorious _Emmanuel_ blessed me exceedingly after -we parted from _Scotland_, and blesses me in like manner, now he has -brought me to _England_. Vile, ungrateful as I am, he vouchsafes to -give me much of his presence, and keeps me under the shadow of his -wings. Let his goodness to me, encourage you to hope and trust in him. -Remember, dear Sir, JESUS came to make poor sinners happy, and to give -them victory over their lusts and passions. Plead his promises, be -much in secret prayer, and never give GOD rest, ’till your soul is -filled with all his fulness. That the LORD may hasten that blessed -time, wherein his kingdom shall come with full power into your dear -soul, is the earnest prayer of, Rev. and dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend, brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXIX. - - _To Mr. B――――, at Bethesda._ - - _London, Nov. 19, 1742._ - -BLESSED, blessed be GOD, the packet is not gone; so that I have just -time to tell you, I received your kind, very kind letter, though -I have not time to read it thoroughly, least I should miss this -opportunity. GOD only knows how I sympathize with you and my dear -family. Though I have no money to pay Mr. _Jones_, &c. yet, if I -can take up two or three hundred pounds upon my own account, I will -come over, GOD willing, the very first opportunity. The time of your -fasting, I hope is now near over, and the days of your mourning ended. -Remember the burning bush; it was on fire, but not consumed. Surely -some great good is to come out of the Orphan-house. Blessed be GOD, -for strengthening you to stay with my dear family. Ten thousand -blessings descend upon your soul! I wish dear brother _G――――_ joy. I -am much obliged to my dear friend and faithful steward. Next ship, I -hope to answer his letters distinctly. O my dear man, I do not forget -any of you. GOD, and not my own will, has kept me on this side the -water so long. But surely you must judge me sometimes. You need not -make any apology for moving; it is what I wished you might do. Your -care and tenderness towards me, makes me long to embrace and weep over -you one by one. Forget you! no, no; I think I could rather die for -you. My brother, my dear brother, go on. Surely GOD is with us. Great -things are to come out of _Georgia_. Remember _Abraham_, how did -he sojourn in the land of Promise, as in a strange land? The LORD -increase your faith. My tenderest love, and ten thousand thanks, to -dear Mr. _J――――s_. GOD will bless him for helping you. The LORD JESUS -be with you all. - - Ever, ever yours, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXX. - - _To the Bishop of Bangor._ - - _London, Nov. 19, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -THIS evening I received your Lordship’s kind letter. I humbly thank -your Lordship for it. It confirmed me in the character given me of -your Lordship’s spirit. I verily believe your Lordship abhors every -thing that has a tendency to persecution, and yet, in my humble -opinion, if Mr. _C――――_ is not somewhat redressed, he is persecuted -indeed. That your Lordship may know his spirit, and the spirit of -the person who came as far as _Ludlow_ on the business, I have sent -your Lordship a letter from each, which was written some time ago to -Mr. _H―――― H――――_. In them your Lordship will see their whole hearts. -I verily believe they would rather die than wilfully speak or write -a falshood. My Lord, the whole of the matter seems to be this: In -_Wales_ they have little fellowship meetings, where some well-meaning -people meet together, simply to tell what GOD has done for their souls. -In some of these meetings, I believe Mr. _C――――_ used to tell his -experience, and to invite his companions to come and be happy in -JESUS CHRIST. He is therefore indicted as holding a conventicle; and -this I find is the case of one, if not two more. Now, my Lord, these -persons thus indicted, as far as I can judge, are loyal subjects to -his Majesty, and true friends to, and attendants upon the Church of -_England_ service. You will see by these letters, how unwilling they -are to leave her; and yet, if all those acts, which were made against -persons meeting together to plot against Church and State, were put -in execution against them, what must they do? They must be obliged -to declare themselves Dissenters. I assure your Lordship, it is a -critical time in _Wales_. Hundreds, if not thousands, will go in a -body from the Church, if such proceedings are countenanced. I lately -wrote them a letter, dissuading them from separating from the Church, -and I write thus freely to your Lordship, because of the excellent -spirit of moderation discernible in your Lordship, and because I would -not have (to use your Lordship’s own expression) “such a fire kindled -in, or from your (Lordship’s) diocese.” I would beg the favour of your -Lordship to return me the inclosed, because I have not kept copies. -I send them to your Lordship just as they are, that your Lordship -may see the whole affair, and censure what is exceptionable. I really -believe the writers will thank your Lordship for it. I ask pardon for -taking up so much of your Lordship’s time, but I thought your Lordship -would desire to have all possible information, that you might be -better capable of judging. I pray the great Shepherd and Bishop of -souls to direct your Lordship in this, and every other affair that -comes before you, and that you may be saluted at the great day with -an _Euge bone_, is the hearty and fervent prayer of, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXI. - - _To Mr. C――――._ - - _London, Nov. 20, 1742._ - _My dear Brother C――――_, - -I Catch a few moments to give you an account of my agency. Your letter -I sent to the Bishop of _Bangor_, inclosed in one from myself. His -answer you have transcribed in this. That he might not be imposed -upon by the Chancellor’s representing of things, I last night sent -his Lordship another long letter, with that which you wrote to dear -brother _H――――_ some time ago. As the Bishop seems to be a man of -a moderate spirit, I trust this storm will blow over. In the mean -while, let us wait upon the LORD, commit the cause into his hands who -judgeth righteously, and pray, that we may be “as wise as serpents, -and harmless as doves.” Glad shall I be to serve you, my dear brother, -in this, or any other affair, for advancing our glorious Mediator’s -kingdom. Let this be our comfort, the gates of hell shall never be -able to prevail against it. Let us go on then, and never fear what men -or devils can say of, or do unto us. I suppose this is the language of -your heart, - - _The love of CHRIST doth me constrain - To seek the wand’ring souls of men: - All hail reproach, and welcome pain, - Only thy terrors, LORD, restrain._ - -And if so, surely the spirit of CHRIST and of glory will rest upon -you. Our dear brother _C――――_ is sadly used in _Wiltshire_. The -compassionate Redeemer of souls pities my weakness, and suffers very -little disturbance to be made. We have sweet times, and, vile as I am, -JESUS is pleased to keep me near him. I hope this will find your dear -soul sitting under his shadow with great delight. I know you not in -the flesh, but hope to see you before I embark. Letters call me loudly -to _Georgia_. My dear family are returned to their _Bethesda_ in -safety. O help me, my dear brother, to praise the LORD. Salute all the -brethren in behalf of - - Yours most affectionately, &c. - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXII. - - _To Mr. V――――, Secretary to the Trustees of Georgia._ - - _London, Nov. 20, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -GOD willing, I intend waiting upon the honourable Trustees at the time -appointed. Yesterday I received a packet of letters from my friends -at the Orphan-house. I find they are returned in safety to _Bethesda_, -and give a noble account of the General’s conduct. Blessed be GOD, for -enabling him to repel the enemy; but now another distress is come upon -poor _Georgia_. A violent sickness rages and has taken off many. My -letters say, the Orphan-house surgeon had 50 under his hands. This, -I trust, will more and more convince the Honourable Trustees, of the -benefit the Orphan-house is and will be to the Colony. I hear, that Mr. -_O――――_, the minister of _Savannah_, is dead. I know one Mr. _M――――_, -a clergyman in the _Isle of Man_, who would go over and supply his -place, if he was applied to. The Bishop of _Sodor and Man_ I believe -will give him a recommendation. You may acquaint the Honourable -Trustees with this, and let me know their answer. I hope in about two -months to embark for _Georgia_. I find GOD has given my family a good -crop; but the hands are sick, so they cannot speedily carry it in. -What condition the Orphan-house was in lately, the inclosed will shew. -Be pleased to let the Honourable Trustees have a sight of it, and -believe me to be, dear Sir, - - Your obliged friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXIII. - - _To Mr. C――――._ - - _London, Nov. 20, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -THE first part of your letter did not surprize me at all, though it -made me look up to the LORD for you. I believed you would be down in -the valley of humiliation soon; but fear not, it is only that you may -be exalted the more. I trust, this will find you mounting on wings -like an eagle, walking, yet not weary; running, yet not faint. GOD -has, does, and will remarkably appear for you. Doubtless, you are his -servant and minister. He therefore that touches you, touches the apple -of GOD’s eye. Poor _Wiltshire_ people! I pity them. If I knew their -Bishop, I would apply to him on their behalf. I wrote to the Bishop -of _Bangor_ for our brethren in _Wales_, and have received a very -favourable answer. The wrath of man shall turn to GOD’s praise, and -the remainder of it he will restrain. How wonderfully has he appeared -in all ages for his church and people! My dear family abroad has -been marvellously preserved. Blessed be GOD, they are returned to -_Bethesda_ in peace. We have sweet seasons daily, and I am carried -in the arms of love. My Master careth for me, and seems to order my -goings in his way. O help me to praise him. I think you are never -forgotten by, my dear _C――――_, - - Your most affectionate brother and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXIV. - - _To Mr. J―――― E――――._ - - _London, Nov. 23, 1742._ - _Dear Sir_, - -HOW gently does the LORD deal with his followers? “As a father pitieth -his own children, so is the LORD merciful to them that fear him.” Now -your father is a little uneasy, your grandfather is more favourable. -The LORD will never suffer you to be tempted above what you will be -enabled to bear. He will make a way for you to escape. I am glad you -have determined to study at _E――――_. Two things, I would earnestly -recommend to your constant study, the _book of_ GOD, and _your own -heart_. These two, well understood, will make you an able minister of -the New Testament. In what manner you shall be hereafter employed, I -would have you be indifferent about. “Take no thought for the morrow.” -Let the LORD send you, when and where he will send you. In the mean -while, do as much for GOD in a private way as you can. “Exercise -thyself unto godliness,” and walk so humbly, that all may know our -LORD has chosen you to be a gospel prophet. I rejoice, that the work -is still going on. Blessed be GOD, we have good times here. I am kept -in great liberty. Be pleased to desire all to accept of hearty love -from, dear Sir, - - Your most affectionate friend and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXV. - - _To the Earl of ――――._ - - _London, Nov. 23, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -SINCE I wrote to your Lordship, I have received a comfortable packet -of letters from _Georgia_, giving me an account of my family’s safe -return to their _Bethesda_. The deliverance of _Georgia_ from the -_Spaniards_, one of my friends writes me, is such as cannot be -parralleled, but by some few instances out of the Old Testament. -I find that the _Spaniards_ had cast lots, and determined to give -no quarter. They intended to attack _Carolina_, but wanting water -they put into _Georgia_, and so would take that Colony in their way. -But “the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong.” -Providence ruleth all things. They were wonderfully repelled and sent -away, before our ships were seen. Surely GOD remembered the prayers -of the poor orphans, and the earnest cries which have been put up on -their behalf. I find they now live at a smaller expence. They hunt -and shoot for a good part of their food. Their crop gives them a -considerable quantity of peas, potatoes, &c. and they kill some of -their own stock. There has been a great sickness at _Savannah_. Some -of the labourers have been taken off, but none of the children, as I -hear, have died as yet. I hope this will find your Lordship perfectly -recovered, and your honoured consort, Lady ――――, and all your -Lordship’s family, rejoicing in GOD. He is pleased to give me much of -his love, and to bless me every day. Several of our friends in _Wales_ -have been unjustly excommunicated. I have sent two letters, and have -received kind answers from the Bishop of _Bangor_. Perilous times, -perhaps, are coming on; but this is my comfort, “the gates of hell -shall never prevail against the church of CHRIST.” Hoping for a line -from your Lordship, if it be not too much trouble, I subscribe myself, -my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient, obliged humble servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXVI. - - _To Miss W――――._ - - _London, November 23, 1742._ - _My dear Miss W――――_, - -YOUR letter affected me much, and if it had not been for business, I -should have answered it ere now. It is the hardest thing in the world -to keep the creature in his proper place. We are apt to esteem the -ministers of JESUS either too much or too little. One while, we could -pluck out our eyes to give them; at another time, run into a contrary -extreme, and not pay them that respect which is their due for their -Master’s sake. The love that a child of GOD feels for its spiritual -father, is certainly unspeakable. O how can I but love him, who under -GOD has brought me from darkness into light! Methinks I hear dear Miss -_W――――_ say, “how indeed!” But here is danger, lest the affections -should be too much entangled, and we unwilling to give up the beloved -object to our GOD. This, I suppose, is dear Miss _W――――_’s case, and I -can say, - - _I know how sore this trial is, - For I have felt the same._ - -O what have I suffered in parting from spiritual friends, especially -such as were my _Isaac_’s! But CHRIST’s grace has been sufficient for -me, and so it will be for you. I have prayed for you, and hope by this -time dear Miss _W――――_ can say, my spiritual Father keeps his proper -place, and I walk in liberty and the love of GOD. Indeed, my dear Miss, -no one but the searcher of hearts knows, what a real concern I have -for your eternal welfare. I verily believe I shall see you sitting at -the right hand of your Redeemer. Surely he has captivated and stolen -your heart away. I hope nothing will divert you from him; but with -a single eye to his glory, you will go through good report and evil -report, ’till you come to the blessed place, where the wicked will -cease from troubling, and your weary soul enjoy an everlasting rest. -Glad shall I be to hear from you every opportunity. Ere long I must -away. Pray our Saviour to help me under all my difficulties, but -at the same time help me to praise him: for amidst all my various -circumstances, I am kept joying in GOD, and made more than conqueror -through his love. We have had blessed times since my arrival here. - - Your most affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXVII. - - _To the Bishop of Bangor._ - - _London, Nov. 23, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -I Humbly thank your Lordship for your Lordship’s second kind letter. -Your Lordship shall have Mr. _C――――_’s letter whenever your Lordship -pleases to demand it. I sent it for no other purpose, than to let your -Lordship into the affair as far as lay in my power. I am quite willing -your Lordship should hear both sides. I doubt not but your Lordship -will do justice. The candour and moderation which breathe in your -Lordship’s letters, and your condescension in writing to me, incline -me to take the freedom of begging your Lordship’s acceptance of my -last volume of sermons, and the Orphan-house accounts, from, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obliged, obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXVIII. - - _To Professor Frank, in Germany._ - - _London, Nov. 24, 1742._ - _Rev. Sir_, - -LONG have I designed writing to you, but something or another has -always prevented me. However, I can now defer it no longer. For though -I never saw you in the flesh, yet I love and highly esteem you in the -bowels of JESUS CHRIST, and wish you much prosperity in the work of -the LORD. Your honoured father’s memory is very precious to me. His -account of the Orphan-house hath, under GOD, been a great support -and encouragement to me in a like undertaking. How it prospers, the -account sent with this will inform you. Only it will be proper to -observe, that since the publication of the last, there have been -upwards of 300 _l._ collected. I am yet about 400 _l._ in arrears. But -I know in whom I have believed, for the carrying on of that building. -Hitherto it has answered its motto, and has been like the burning -bush on fire, but not consumed. The Colony’s late deliverance from -the _Spaniards_ was very extraordinary. I cannot but think the LORD -intends yet to do great things for _Georgia_. How is it with the -_Saltzburghers_? I have not heard. Sometime ago I sent them over -twenty pounds, and wish it was in my power to send them more. About -_January_, GOD willing, I intend to embark. In the mean while, I -should be glad to know, Rev. Sir, how it is with your Orphan-house? -and whether you have any commands to _Georgia_? I suppose you have -heard of the work of GOD in _Scotland_. Indeed the word has run and -been glorified, and JESUS has gotten himself the victory in many -hearts. In _England_ also he is pleased to bless us. Here are many -close followers of the blessed Lamb of GOD, and though there is a -difference of opinion between me and Mr. _W――――_, yet JESUS pities us -and blesses us all. I long for that time, “when the watchmen shall all -see eye to eye; when the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the lion -eat straw like the ox, and the people of GOD learn war and jangle no -more.” Hasten that time, O glorious _Emmanuel_, and let thy kingdom -come!――Rev. Sir, whilst I am writing, the fire of love kindles in -my heart. I am amazed, to think the blessed JESUS should employ such -an unworthy wretch as I am: But thy grace is free, for, O my GOD, it -found me out. The love you bear to the lovely JESUS, I am persuaded -will excite you to pray for me. Glad should I be of a line from you, -and the Rev. Mr. _Ulspurgher_; but I deserve no regard for not writing -to you both. But you know how to forgive, for GOD for CHRIST’s sake -hath forgiven you. Hoping therefore for a line from you by the hands -of the Rev. Mr. _Z――――_, I subscribe myself, Reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most obliged, affectionate, tho’ unworthy younger brother - and servant in the kingdom and patience of the blessed JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCLXXXIX. - - _To Mr. P――――, of Newbury._ - - _London, Nov. 27, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -THIS morning I received your sweet and lovely letter. It humbled me -before GOD; but I rejoiced, as I had long since publickly recanted -all that is exceptionable in that extract. I think I was overseen -in publishing it; but this is not the first blunder I have made. My -mistakes have been so many, and my imprudence so great, that I have -often wondered that the glorious JESUS would employ me in his service. -But he has proved his eternal goodness, long-suffering, and love, by -bearing with me, and, Rev. and dear Sir, he still delights to honour -me. Since I have been in _London_, he has given me great freedom -of soul, and caused his word to come with power. I have news of my -family being safe at _Georgia_. GOD willing, I purpose to embark next -_January_. I most heartily thank you for this last instance of your -love, and pray our dear JESUS to reward you for it. Your seeing what -a poor, weak, fallible creature I am, I trust will stir you up to be -more earnest for me at the throne of grace. Next week I intend sending -you a parcel, wherein you will have more particular accounts of the -work in _Scotland_. I hear the gospel flourishes in _Gloucestershire_ -and _Wales_. Dear Mr. _C――――_ will be sadly missed. But he is in peace, -and the residue of the spirit is in the Redeemer’s hands. That you and -your dear flock and family may experience a large effusion of it in -your dear souls, is and shall be the earnest prayer of, dear and Rev. -Sir, - - Your most affectionate, tho’ most unworthy brother - and servant in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXC. - - _To the Bishop of Sarum._ - - _Nov. 30, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -I Beg your Lordship’s pardon for troubling you with this. I believe -your Lordship will not be offended, when you know the cause. There -is one Mr. _C――――_, a true lover of JESUS CHRIST, who has been much -honoured in bringing many poor sinners in _Wiltshire_ to the knowledge -of themselves and of GOD. He is a member of the Church of _England_, -but sadly opposed by the clergy in _Wiltshire_, as well as by many -that will come to hear him preach. In a letter, dated _November 16th_, -from _Toxham_, he writes thus: “The enemy seems to be more awakened in -the villages round about us, than before. The ministers of _Bramble_, -_Segery_, _Langley_, and many others, have strictly forbidden the -church-wardens and overseers to let any of the _C――――_’s have any -thing out of the parish; and they obey them, and tell the poor, -if they cannot stop them from following any other way, they will -famish them. Several of the poor, who have great families (to my own -knowledge) have already been denied any help, for this reason, because -they follow this way. Some of the people have, out of fear, denied -they ever came, and others have been made to promise they will come -no more; whilst the most part come at the loss of friends and all -they have. When the officers threatned some to take away their pay; -they answered, if you starve us, we will go, and rather than we will -forbear, we will live upon grass like the kine. Surely the cries of -the distressed people have already entered into the ears of the LORD -of _Sabaoth_.” In another letter I received from him last night, he -writes thus: “I should be glad if you could mention the cruelty of the -ministers of _Bramble_, and _Segery_, to the Bishop of _Sarum_; indeed, -their doings are inhuman. The cry of the people, because of their -oppression, is very great; several suffer amazingly.”――In compliance -with my dear friend’s request, I presume to lay the matter, as -he represents it, before your Lordship, being persuaded that your -Lordship will not favour persecuting practices, or approve of such -proceedings to keep people to the Church of _England_. Should this -young man leave the Church, hundreds would leave it with him. But I -know that at present he has no such design. If your Lordship pleases -to give me leave, I would wait upon your Lordship upon the least -notice. Or if your Lordship is pleased to send a line into _Wiltshire_, -to know the truth of the matter, and judge accordingly, it will -satisfy, my Lord, - - Your Lordship’s most obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCI. - - _To Mr. J――――._ - - _London, Dec. 4, 1742._ - -IF my dear brother _J――――_ took it kind, that I called at his house, -I am sure I took it much kinder that he was pleased to send unworthy -me so kind a letter. It has so affected me, that I have been praying -before my Saviour for you; and though nature calls for rest, I -cannot obey it, before I have written to my dear Mr. _J――――_. Vile, -unfaithful as I am, my Master lets me have my hands full of work. From -morning ’till midnight I am employed, and, glory be to rich grace, -I am carried through the duties of each day with chearfulness, and -almost uninterrupted tranquility. Our society is large, but in good -order, and we make improvements daily. My Master gives us much of his -gracious presence, both in our public and private administrations. -In our love-feasts, JESUS comes and says, “Peace be unto you.” In -our great congregation, he gives poor sinners to look, and mourn, and -live. In _Scotland_ the work was very extraordinary. In _Wales_ the -word runs and is glorified much. In _Gloucestershire_, _Wiltshire_, -and _Bristol_, our LORD gets himself the victory in many hearts. In -_Newcastle_, our brother _W――――_’s are blessed much, and I heartily -rejoice to hear that our dear Saviour is so much among you. If I know -any thing of this my desperately wicked heart, I am dead to parties, -and freed from the pain, which on that account once disturbed the -peace of my soul. Indeed, JESUS has taken many things from me, and -made me to experience, that in him there is plenteous redemption. -About _January_, I purpose, GOD willing, to embark for _Georgia_. My -dear family hath been wonderfully preserved. As the Orphan-house was -built by faith, I trust the gates of hell shall never prevail against -it. Methinks I hear my dear Mr. _J――――_ say, Amen. I most cordially -salute your dear Lady, dear brother _S――――_, and all the brethren. -I saw our dear _S――――_ before he went. I intended having some sweet -fellowship with the church in _Yorkshire_, but was prevented by riding -post. If dear brother _H――――_, or _D――――_, or any of the brethren, -have any thing to say to a poor sinner, I should be glad to hear from -them. Let this provoke you, my dear brother, to send me another letter. -I’ll redeem time from sleep, rather than it should not be answered by, -my dear Mr. _J――――_, - - Your most affectionate, though unworthy, sinful - and younger brother in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCII. - - _To the Bishop of Bristol._ - - _London, Dec. 5, 1742._ - _My Lord_, - -AS your Lordship was pleased to contribute towards the Orphan-house -in _Georgia_, I think your Lordship has a right to hear how that -undertaking succeeds. I have made bold to send your Lordship the -accounts of it, which are published. Since the last was printed, I -have collected about 300 _l._ and have heard that my family are all -safe at the Orphan-house. I have also taken the freedom of sending -your Lordship my last volume of sermons; in accepting of which, your -Lordship will much oblige - - Your Lordship’s most obedient son and servant, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCIII. - - _To Mr. S――――, at Worcester._ - - _London, Dec. 9, 1742._ - _Rev. and dear Sir_, - -HOWEVER engaged I may be, I think it my duty to answer your kind -letter as soon as possible. It is not fit that my Master’s aged -servant should wait long for an answer from a younger brother, -especially as I know you write with so much difficulty. I thank you, -Rev. Sir, for your plain dealing. It is what pleaseth me well. Indeed, -I feel myself a poor, vile, worthless creature, and am glad to receive -advice from you, who have been so long in the Redeemer’s service. -However ungrateful it may be to the old man, the language of my heart -is, “LORD, search me and try me, and whatever secret wickedness lurks -in my soul, discover it to me, and give me power over it, that nothing -may divert me from that way, which leads me to life everlasting.” -Your advice, Rev. Sir, in respect to preaching, was salutary and good, -and if I may speak any thing of myself, is what I keep close to. I -am remarked for my evangelical preaching, and comforting the mourners -of _Zion_. I am never so much in my element, as when I preach free -grace to the chief of sinners. As to the gentleman you mention, I do -not remember I ever conversed with such a person. I believe there can -scarce an instance be given of any one sent to _Bedlam_ by my sermons. -But I rejoice in this, and all other calumnies that are cast upon me. - - _All hail reproach, welcome pain, - Only thy terrors, LORD, restrain._ - -I must have some thorn in the flesh, to serve as a poise to the -great honour my Master is pleased to put upon me. In _Scotland_, my -reception was extraordinary. It was almost wholly amongst the people -and clergy of the _kirk_, with many of the highest rank. I was very -intimate with several persons of quality, who I trust have been -awakened to a true sense of the divine life, and enabled to count -all things but dung and dross for the excellency of the knowledge -of CHRIST JESUS their LORD. My chief opposition was from the dear -Mr. _E――――s_ and the associate presbytery. They first invited me -to _Scotland_; but finding I would preach for the ministers of the -established church, as well as for them, they spoke all manner of -evil against me falsly, and imputed all the work in _Scotland_ and -_New-England_ to the agency of the evil spirit. I pitied, prayed for, -and loved them, and do so still. O, reverend Sir, what thanks shall I -give to my LORD for carrying me through so many trying dispensations? -I know you will help me to adore and praise him. I am much blessed -here. We have many gracious souls. Ere long I must leave them. I have -not the least thought of seeing _Worcester_. Glad shall I be to kiss -your aged hands; but I shall see you in glory. Begging the continuance -of your prayers, and with all possible thanks for all favours, I -subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir, - - Your most obliged and affectionate friend and younger brother - and servant in JESUS, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCIV. - - _To Mr. D――――, of Edinburgh._ - - _London, Dec. 18, 1742._ - _My very dear Friend and Brother_, - -LAST night, just before your kind letter came to hand, I had been -lying on my face before our compassionate High-Priest, telling him -what great expences lay before me for his great Name sake. I wanted -300 _l._ to pay for the Orphans, and much to pay for my own necessary -expences, which he, by his providence, brought upon me. Your letter -came as an answer to my prayer. It humbled, at the same time that it -elated my soul, and greatly strengthened my faith. Surely the LORD is -on my side, and the Orphan-house will stand unconsumed in fire. The -enemies, and even many friends of JESUS speak against it; but this is -all to bring me nearer to the blessed JESUS, and to convince me that -our extremity is GOD’s opportunity. My dear man, GOD will abundantly -bless you for helping me at this juncture. I can find but few, who -think it a favour to do any thing for GOD, and love to help a friend -to the very last. O, dear Sir, was you here, I could weep over you, -and thank you most heartily. Last night I was enabled to intercede -for you very much. GOD will hear my prayer, and not let my dear friend -lose his reward. The 16th of this month was my birth-day. It made me -blush to think how much sin I have committed against, and how little -good I have done for GOD. As soon as I opened and read your letter, -amazed, I cried out, I am the vilest wretch living, and so I think now. -I know you will pray for me, and thank our Saviour too. He is very -kind to me. Our society goes on well. I am now in my winter-quarters, -preparing for a fresh campaign. Though I richly deserve it, yet our -infinitely condescending JESUS will not lay me aside, until he has -performed all his good pleasure in and by me. Wishing you, my dear -Sir, all the blessings of the everlasting covenant, and sending you -ten thousand thanks for all favours, I subscribe myself, - - Your most obliged affectionate friend, brother, - and unworthy servant in JESUS CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCV. - - _To Mr. I――――._ - - _London, Dec. 21, 1742._ - _My very dear Brother_, - -WHEN your letters come, I find great freedom to send immediate answers. -A proof this, I trust, that our Saviour intends our brotherly love not -only to continue, but increase. This day I dined with old Mr. _F――――_, -and was kindly entertained by him and his wife. I then remembered what -sweet counsel we had there taken together, and rejoiced in the happy -prospect of our being ere long for ever together with our blessed and -glorious LORD. My brother, what has our Saviour done for us since that -time? What is he doing for us now? what did he do ere time began? what -will he do when time shall be no more? O how sweet is it to be melted -down with a sense of redeeming love! It is this must strike the rock, -and break the bars of unbelief asunder. O! to be kept always low -at the feet of JESUS! It is right, my brother, always to insist on -poverty of spirit, and emptying the creature of self. I heartily join -with you in your petition for yourself and unworthy me. I know what a -dreadful thing it is, to carry much sail without proper ballast, and -to rejoice in a false liberty. Joy floating upon the surface of an -unmortified heart, is but of short continuance. It puffs up, but doth -not edify. I thank our Saviour that he is shewing us here more of our -hearts, and more of his love. I doubt not but he deals so with you. I -heartily greet your dear houshold, and your societies, and return my -love to Mr. _S――――_. I have heard him mentioned by lady _F―――― G――――_. -If our Saviour gives me leave, I would gladly come to _Yorkshire_. -But I think the cloud points strongly towards _Georgia_. He hath taken -wonderful care of the sheep left in yonder wilderness, and interposed -mightily in their behalf. I know you will thank him for it. I have had -a loving conference with dear Mr. _B――――_, and have received a sweet -gospel-letter from dear Mr. _H――――_. With this I send to him, you, and -yours, and all the brethren, most hearty love, and am, my very dear -brother, - - Ever yours in CHRIST, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCVI. - - _To the Honourable Colonel G――――._ - - _London, Dec. 21, 1742._ - _Honoured Sir_, - -YOUR kind letter put me in mind of righteous _Lot_, whose soul was -grieved day by day at the ungodly conversation of the wicked. It -was the same with holy _David_. His eyes, like yours, honoured Sir, -gushed out with water because men kept not GOD’s law. Let this be -your comfort, honoured Sir, that ere long “the wicked shall cease from -troubling you, and your weary soul shall be at rest.” Our Saviour will -give you a discharge, when you have fought a few more battles for him. -An exceeding and eternal weight of glory is laid up for you, which -GOD the righteous judge shall give you at that day. I confess your -situation and employment cannot be very agreeable to a disciple of -the prince of peace. But persons can better judge for themselves, than -strangers can judge for them. However, I cannot say, I would change -posts. Indeed, honoured Sir, I think mine is a glorious employ. I am -not ashamed of my master, though my master may well be ashamed of me. -I know no other reason, why JESUS has put me into the ministry, -than because I am the chief of sinners, and therefore fittest to -preach free grace to a world lying in the wicked one. Blessed be -GOD, he gives much success, and for the generality answers your -prayers, by giving me a thriving soul in a healthful body. But O my -unfruitfulness! I am often ashamed that I can do no more for that -JESUS who hath redeemed me by his own most precious blood. Honoured -Sir, the thoughts quite confound me. O that I could lie lower! then -should I rise higher. Could I take deeper root downwards, then should -I bear more fruit upwards. I want to be poor in spirit. I want to be -meek and lowly in heart. I want to have the whole mind that was in -CHRIST JESUS. Blessed be his name for what he has given me already. -Blessed be his name, that out of his fulness I receive grace for grace. -O that my heart was CHRIST’s library! I would not have one thief to -lodge in my Redeemer’s temple. “LORD, scourge out every thief,” is -the daily language of my heart. The LORD will hear my prayer, and let -my cry come unto him. I have just been writing to your honoured lady. -I think she grows in grace. May you and yours be filled with all the -fulness of GOD! In about six weeks, GOD willing, I purpose to embark -for _Georgia_. Our LORD has wonderfully appeared for my poor orphans. -I am yet in arrears for them, but my GOD knows how to supply all my -wants. I am enabled to cast all my care upon him, believing that he -careth for me. I hope to have the favour of another letter before I -embark. In the mean while, I beg the continuance of your prayers, and -am, honoured Sir, - - Your most affectionate, though very unworthy brother, - and servant in our glorious head, - - _G. W._ - - - LETTER CCCCXCVII. - - _To Lady Jane H―――― C――――._ - - _London, Dec. 23, 1742._ - _Honoured Madam_, - -HOW are we obliged to your Ladyship? Had I time I would endeavour to -tell you; but this is my comfort, when I have not time to write, I -have a heart given me to pray for my dear friends, and you, Honoured -Madam, have a constant share in my poor petitions. I find by yours to -my wife, that you complain of darkness. Ere now, I hope the day-star -hath again risen in your heart, and you have been made to rejoice -with exceeding great joy. Our LORD will not leave you comfortless; he -will send the Holy Ghost to comfort you. The time of singing of birds -shall come. Our LORD will not be always chiding.――This is only to -shew you more of your heart, and make you what you long to be, a very -poor sinner. Our hearts, Honoured Madam, are so desperately wicked, -deceitful above all things, that without repeated instances of feeling -our helplessness and misery, we should forget ourselves, and run away -from the feet of our LORD and Saviour. He therefore, in love, empties -before he fills; humbles before he exalts. At least, he is pleased to -deal thus with me. I thank him for it, from my inmost soul: for was -it not so, his mercies would destroy us. He helps me also to praise -him. When I discover a new corruption, I am as thankful as a centinel -keeping watch in a garrison, would be at spying a straggling enemy -come near him. I stand not fighting with it myself in my own strength, -but run immediately and tell the captain of my salvation. By the sword -of his spirit, he soon destroys it, and makes me exceeding happy. -This is what I call a simple looking to CHRIST. I know of no other -effectual way of keeping the old man down, after he has gotten his -deadly blow. Look up then, dear Madam, to a wounded Saviour. Go to -him as a little child. Tell him your whole heart. He will hear your -lisping, and set your soul at liberty. He is pleased graciously to -answer my petitions, and to bless my poor labours. We have many good -souls in our society, that are gently coming into the knowledge of -themselves. Our Saviour deals most lovingly with us indeed. Last night -we had a general love-feast. It was exceeding awful and refreshing. -I could have wished for some of my dear _Scotland_ friends. I was -enabled to pray for them most fervently. May JESUS bless this letter -to your soul! Wishing, above all things, that it may be in health and -prosper, and with humble acknowledgments for all favours, I subscribe -myself, Honoured Madam, - - Your Ladyship’s most obliged humble servant, - - _G. 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