I Thank you for your letter: I neither forgot you nor my promise. O that God may effectually work upon your heart betimes, for you cannot be good too soon, or too good. The little orphans at Georgia are crying out, “What shall we do to be saved?” And I am glad to hear, that this is the language of some little ones in New-England. If you know any of them, pray give my love to them, and tell them, I pray that Jesus Christ may be revealed in their dear hearts. How early was Jesus Christ in the Temple, first hearing, and then asking questions? How did he love the little children, how did he take them up in his sacred arms and bless them; and when he was just ascending to the highest heaven, how tenderly did he speak to Peter, and bid him “feed his lambs.” Let all this encourage you to come unto him. He will certainly receive you, tho’ you have been wicked; nay, he will abundantly pardon you. And what comfort will you enjoy, when you know your sins are forgiven you? You will then have a heaven upon earth. In expectation of seeing you a christian indeed, and grown in grace, I subscribe myself
Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,
G. W.
LETTER CCCXXII.
To the Honourable J—— W——, at Boston.
On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.
Honoured Sir,
PRESUMING it would not be disagreeable to you, I have taken the liberty to print part of the letter you was so kind as to send me. Surely it will rejoice the hearts of thousands, to hear what good things the Lord is doing in these parts. It has put much gladness into my heart, and caused me to give many thanks in behalf of the people of New-England. How good is our God! When things are a little troublesome without, he sends his gospel to comfort his children within. Surely Jesus Christ is about to set the world in a flame. He is working powerfully at home; he is working powerfully abroad. I trust he will continue working, ’till the earth be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. I hope you will yet feel more of this light and life in your own heart, before you go hence, and be comforted with the comforts wherewith I am daily comforted of God. Dear Sir, Jesus is a precious Master. He, as it were, dandles me upon his knees. He carries me in his arms, he fights all my battles, and makes me more than conqueror thro’ his love. My work is great, but my supports are greater. He assures me from day to day, that he will never leave me nor forsake me. My infirmities often make me blush, and yet Jesus passes them all by. Dear Sir, think often on the love of Christ: think of his dying love; that must give you comfort. I rejoice at this opportunity of writing to you. I thank you for your kind caution. I pray God to teach me how to improve it. Help me, dear Sir, with your prayers; and accept of these few lines from, honoured Sir,
Your most affectionate brother and servant in Christ,