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.