LETTERS. (continued 9)

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.

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.

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.

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