JUST now I received your kind letter, and the generous benefaction of you and your friends for the Orphan-house. It came very opportunely, and strengthens my faith in the blessed Jesus. I find he will help me by ways I know not. O, dear Sir, the love of God to such an unworthy worm quite amazes me. Surely, if I did not stand up for free distinguishing grace, the very stones would cry out against me. Blessed be our glorious Emmanuel, the gospel runs and is glorified. A wonderful power attends the word preached. Every day, I believe, some or other are pricked to the heart. I have also glad tidings from abroad. In New-England there is an extraordinary work of God. I hope the dear Jesus will set the whole world in a flame. Dear Sir, help me with your prayers. The archers shoot sore at me that I may fall, but the Lord is my helper. I hope my thanks will find acceptance with your other friends, who joined in helping my poor Orphans. Good measure pressed down and running over, may the Lord return into your bosoms. Dear Sir, I pray God to make you a flaming fire, and fill you with a holy burning zeal for promoting our dear Redeemer’s kingdom. I find but few truly zealous. The love of too, too many is waxed cold. I thank you, dear Sir, for encouraging me, and beg leave to subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir,
Your affectionate brother in Christ Jesus,
G. W.
LETTER CCXCVII.
To the Rev. Mr. H——.
London, June 13, 1741.
Reverend and dear Sir,
I Received your kind letter. You do not know, and therefore think too highly of me. “Less than the least of all,” shall be my motto still. Providence is pleased to prevent my leaving London on Monday next. I must necessarily defer my journey to Hertfordshire and Essex, till the Monday following.—I approve of the circuit you have fixed, but I chuse to preach at each place twice. Dear Sir, I most heartily thank you for promising me your assistance in respect to the orphans. I am persuaded our Lord will be well pleased. He gives me great encouragement. We daily feel and see his presence in the great congregation. I hear glorious news from abroad: New-England is in a holy flame. O that we at home, may be stirred up to spend ourselves, and be spent, for the good of souls! Dear Sir, pray that such a mind may be given to
Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother and servant in Christ,