Rev. and dear Sir,
MULTIPLICITY of business has prevented my answering your kind letter. However, I have often borne you upon my heart before the Lord. Your case, methinks, is somewhat like that man of God, J. Bunyan’s. He was often so depressed with a sense of sin in the pulpit, that he has been tempted to hold his peace. This has been my case also both in public and in private. I find the best way is to press forward, and to look up to Jesus Christ. He is faithful to his promises. I write but short, having but little time, and because I hope soon to see you in Essex. I pray God to clear up your evidences, and give you no rest till he fills you with a full assurance of faith. Our Lord rides on triumphantly here. He enables me to go on from conquering to conquer. I am a poor weak unworthy worm. As such, be pleased to remember, Reverend and dear Sir,
Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer in the gospel,
G. W.
LETTER CCXCI.
To Mrs. R——.
London, June 6, 1741.
Dear Mrs. R.,
I Have been much hindred in answering your letter. Perhaps you have expected too much comfort from man. That comfort is alone lasting, which comes from God. I know not your experiences, and therefore cannot so well judge of your case: however, I would have you press forward, and labour after a full assurance of faith. Judge not yourself by others joys and comforts. Look not too much upon the happiness you think others may enjoy. This may lead you to repine and murmur against God. Look to yourself, and to Christ. Remember, you deserve nothing, and therefore he does you no wrong. Remember also, that he is full of love, and therefore in his own due time will manifest himself to your soul. That you may patiently tarry the Lord’s leisure, and be blessed with abundance of peace, is the hearty prayer of, dear Mrs. R——,