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,