G. W.
LETTER CLXXVIII.
To Mr. S——.
Willingtown, (Pensylvania) April 14, 1740.
READ where I am, and judge whether or not I am a stranger and pilgrim upon earth. Yesterday, after a short passage of ten days, did God bring us from Georgia to New-Castle: there I preached twice. To-day I shall preach here, and in the evening hope to reach Philadelphia. People are much alarmed already; and great things, I find, God has been pleased to do, by what he enabled me to deliver when last here. Two ministers have been convinced of their formal state, notwithstanding they held and preached the doctrines of grace. One plainly told the congregation he had been deceiving himself and them, and could not preach any more, but desired the people to pray with him. Another is as a flame of fire, and hath been much owned of God. An opposer reading my sermon, in order to convince them I did not preach as Mr. T——, was much disappointed; for power went along with the sermon, God’s spirit fell on the people, and formal opposers went affrighted away. It is unknown what a glorious stir here is in the province. Many, very many, I believe, of late have been brought savingly to believe on the Lord Jesus. The work much increases, and here is employment for many months: but I must return shortly to Savannah. A primitive spirit revives; and many, I hope, will be brought to live stedfast in the apostles doctrine, in fellowship, and breaking of bread, and in prayer. Perhaps dear Mr. S—— may be one of them. Pray how does that young man do? Is he deeply humbled, and closely united to the dear Lord Jesus? Does he feel himself a poor sinner, and daily experience the outgoing and incoming of the blessed spirit in the sanctuary of his heart? Blessed be God, I do: even whilst I am writing I feel his power. I am persuaded I shall be more than conqueror over every evil, through my Redeemer’s love. Oh! my dear friend, keep close to the dear Lord Jesus! Do not go without his leading, and then you are safe, though in the midst of devils. Adieu.
Ever, ever yours,
G. W.