The Works of the
Rev. John Wesley, M.A.
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THE
WORKS
OF THE
Rev. JOHN WESLEY, M.A.
Late Fellow of _Lincoln-College_, OXFORD.
VOLUME XIII.
BRISTOL:
Printed by WILLIAM PINE, in _Wine-Street_.
MDCCLXXII.
THE
CONTENTS
Of the THIRTEENTH VOLUME.
⭘ Letters written by Mr. _Brainerd_
⭘ An Extract from Miss _Mary Gilbert_’s Journal
⭘ An Extract from _Elizabeth Harper_’s Journal
⭘ A short Account of _Ann Johnson_
⭘ A short Account of _Ann Rogers_
⭘ A short Account of _Mary Langson_
⭘ A short Account of _Hannah Richardson_
⭘ A Letter to the Rev. Mr. _John Wesley_, by a _Gentlewoman_
⭘ An Extract of Mrs. _L****_’s Letters
LETTERS
WRITTEN BY
Mr. BRAINERD.
To his brother John, then a student at Yale-College
in New-Haven.
_Kaunaumeek, April 30, 1743_.
_Dear Brother_,
*I SHOULD tell you, “I long to see you,” but that my own experience
has taught me, there is no happiness to be enjoyed in _earthly friends_,
though ever so near and dear, or any other enjoyment that is not
God himself. Therefore, if the _God of all grace_ would be pleased
graciously to afford us each his presence and grace, that we may
perform the work, and endure the trials he calls us to, in a tiresome
wilderness, till we arrive at our journey’s end; the distance at
which we are held from each other at present, is a matter of no great
moment.――――But alas! the presence of God is what I want.――――I live in
the most lonely melancholy _desert_, about eighteen miles from Albany.
I board with a poor Scotchman: his wife can talk scarce a word of
English. My _diet_ consists mostly of hasty-pudding, boiled corn,
and bread baked in the ashes. My _lodging_ is a little straw, laid
upon some boards, a little way from the ground; for it is a log-room,
without any floor, that I lodge in. My _work_ is exceeding hard: I
travel on foot a mile and half, the worst of way, almost daily, and
back again; for I live so far from my Indians.――――I have not seen an
English person this month.――――These and many other circumstances as
uncomfortable, attend me; and my _spiritual conflicts_ and _distresses_
so far _exceed_ all these that I scarce think of them. The Lord grant
that I may be enabled “to endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus
Christ!” As to my _success_ here I cannot say much: the Indians seem
generally well disposed towards me, and are mostly very attentive to my
instructions: two or three are under some convictions; but there seems
to be little of the special workings of the divine Spirit among them
yet; which gives me many a heart-sinking hour. Sometimes I hope God has
abundant blessings in store for them and me; but at other times I am so
overwhelmed with distress, that I cannot see how his dealings with me
are consistent with covenant love and faithfulness, and I say “surely
his tender mercies are clean gone for ever.” But however, I see, I
_needed_ all this _chastisement_ already: “it is good for me,” that I
have endured these trials. Do not be discouraged by my distresses: I
was under great distress, at Mr. Pomroys, when I saw you last; but “God
has been with me of a truth,” since that. But let us always remember,
that we must _through much tribulation_ enter into God’s eternal
kingdom. The righteous are _scarcely_ saved: it is an infinite wonder,
that we have hopes of being saved at all. For my part, I feel the most
vile of any creature living; and I am sure, there is not such another
existing on this side _hell_.――――Now all you can do for me, is, to
pray incessantly, that God would make me humble, holy, resigned, and
heavenly minded, by all my trials.――――“Be strong in the Lord, and in
the power of his might.” Let us _run_, _wrestle_, and _fight_, that
we may obtain the prize, and obtain that compleat happiness, to be
“holy, as God is holy.” So wishing ♦and praying that you may advance
in learning and grace, and be fit for special service for God, I remain
_Your affectionate Brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
♦ duplicate word “and” removed
* * * * *
To his Brother John, at Yale-college in New-Haven.
_Kaunaumeek, December 27, 1743_.
_Dear Brother_,
I LONG to see you, and know how you fare in your journey through the
world of sorrow, where we are compassed about with “vanity, confusion,
and vexation of spirit.” I am more weary of life than ever I was. The
whole world appears to me like a vast empty space, ♦whence nothing
desirable, or at least satisfactory, can possibly be derived, and long
daily to die more and more to it; even though I obtain not that comfort
from spiritual things which I earnestly desire. Worldly pleasures, such
as flow from greatness, riches, honours, and sensual gratifications,
are infinitely _worse_ than none. May the Lord deliver us more and more
from these _vanities_! I have spent most of the fall and winter in a
very weak state of body; and sometimes under pressing inward trials,
but “having obtained help from God, I continue to this day;” and am now
something better in health. I find nothing more conducive to a life of
_Christianity_, than a diligent and faithful improvement of precious
_time_. Let us then faithfully perform that business, which is alloted
us by divine Providence to the utmost of our bodily strength and mental
vigour. Why should we sink with any particular trials, we are called
to encounter in the world? _Death_ and _eternity_ are just before us;
a few tossing billows more will waft us to the world of spirits, and we
hope (through infinite grace) into endless pleasures. Let us then “run
with patience the race that is set before us.” And Oh that we could
depend more upon the _living God_, and less upon our own wisdom and
strength! Dear brother, may the _God of all grace_ comfort your heart,
and succeed your studies, and make you an instrument of good to his
people. This is the instant prayer of
_Your affectionate Brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
♦ “where” replaced with “whence” per Errata
* * * * *
To his Brother Israel, at Haddam.
_Kaunaumeek, January 21, 1743‒4_.
_My dear Brother_,
――THERE is but one thing, that deserves our highest care; and that is,
that we may answer the great _end_, for which we were made, _viz._ to
_glorify_ that God, who has given us our beings and all our comforts,
and do all the good we possibly can to our _fellow-creatures_: and
verily life is not worth the having, if it be not employed for this
noble end. Yet, alas, how little is this thought of? Most men love to
_live to themselves_, without regard to the glory of God, or the good
of their fellow creatures: they earnestly desire, and eagerly pursue
the riches, honours, and pleasures of life, as if they really supposed
that wealth, or greatness, or merriment, could make their immortal
souls happy. But, alas, what false and delusive dreams are these!
And how miserable will those ere long be, who are not awaked out of
them, to see, that all their happiness consists in _living to God_, and
becoming “holy, as he is holy!” Oh, may you never fall into the tempers
and vanities, the sensuality and folly of the present world! You are
left, as it were, alone in a wide world, to act for yourself; be sure
then to remember, it is a world of _temptation_. You have no earthly
parents to form your youth to piety, by their examples and seasonable
counsels; let this excite you with great fervency to look up to the
_Father of mercies_ for assistance against all the vanities of the
world. And if you would glorify God, and make your own soul happy in
this and the coming world, observe these few _directions_; though not
from a father, yet from a brother who is touched with a tender concern
for your present and future happiness. And,
*First, Resolve upon, and daily endeavour to practise a life of
_seriousness_. Think of the life of Christ; and when you can find that
he was pleased with jesting, then you may indulge it in yourself.
Again, Be careful to make a good improvement of precious time. When you
cease from labour, fill up your time in reading, meditation, and prayer:
and while your hands are labouring, let your heart be employed, as much
as possible in divine thoughts.
Further, Take heed that you faithfully perform the _business_ you have
to do in the world, from a regard to the command of God. We should
always look upon ourselves as God’s servants, placed in God’s world
to do his work; and accordingly labour faithfully for him; not with a
design to grow rich and great, but to glorify God, and do all the good
we possibly can.
*Again, Never expect happiness from the world. If you hope for
happiness in the world, hope for it from God, and not _from_ the world.
Do not think you shall be more happy, if you live to such or such a
state of life, if you live to be for yourself, to be settled in the
world, or if you should gain an estate in it: but look upon it that
you shall then be _happy_, when you can be constantly employed for God,
and not for yourself; and desire to live in this world, only to _do_
and _suffer_ what God allots to you. When you can be of the spirit and
temper of angels, who are willing to come down into this lower world,
to perform what God commands them, though their desires are _heavenly_,
and not set on _earthly_ things, then you will be of that temper that
you ought to have.
Once more, Never think that you can live to God by _your own_ strength;
but always look to, and rely on _him_ for assistance, yea, for all
strength and grace. There is no greater _truth_ than this, that “we
can do nothing of ourselves;” yet nothing but our own _experience_
can effectually teach it to us. Indeed we are a long time in learning,
that all our strength and salvation is in God. This is a life, that no
_unconverted_ man can live; yet it is a life that every godly soul is
pressing after. Let it then be your great concern to devote yourself
and your all to God.
I long to see you, that I may say much more to you than I now can, but
I desire to commit you to the _Father of mercies_, and _God of all
grace_; praying that you may be directed safely through an _evil world_,
to God’s _heavenly kingdom_.
_I am your affectionate loving brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To a special Friend.
_The Forks of Delaware, July 31, 1744._
*――CERTAINLY the greatest, the noblest pleasure of intelligent
creatures must result from their acquaintance with the blessed God,
and with their own immortal souls. And Oh, how divinely sweet is it,
to look into our own souls, when we can find all our passions united
and engaged in pursuit of God, our whole souls passionately breathing
after a conformity to him, and the full enjoyment of him! Verily there
are no hours pass away with so much pleasure, as those that are spent
in communing with God and our own hearts. Oh, how sweet is a spirit
of devotion, a spirit of seriousness and divine solemnity, a spirit
of gospel simplicity, love, tenderness! Oh, how desirable, and how
profitable to the Christian life, is a spirit of holy watchfulness,
and godly jealousy over ourselves; when we are afraid of nothing so
much as that we shall offend the blessed God, whom we apprehend, to
be a _father and a friend_; whom we love and long to please! Surely
this is a temper, worthy of the highest ambition and closest pursuit
of intelligent creatures. Oh, how vastly superior is the peace, and
satisfaction derived from these divine frames, to that which we pursue
in things impertinent and trifling! Our own bitter experience teaches
us, that “in the midst of such laughter the heart is sorrowful,”
and there is no true satisfaction but in God. But, alas! how shall
we obtain and retain this sweet spirit of religion? Let us follow
the apostle’s direction, Philippians ii. 12. and labour upon the
encouragement he there mentions, for it is God only can afford us
favour; and he will be _sought_, and it is fit we should wait upon
him for so rich a mercy. Oh, may the God of all grace afford us the
influences of his Spirit: and help us that we may from our hearts
esteem it our greatest liberty and happiness, that “whether we live,
we may live to the Lord, or whether we die, we may die to the Lord:”
that in _life_ and _death_, we may be his!
I am in a very poor state of health: but through divine goodness, I
am not discontented: I bless God for this retirement; I never was more
thankful for any thing, than I have been of late for the necessity I
am under of self-denial: *I love to be a _pilgrim_ and _stranger_ in
this wilderness: it seems most fit for such a poor, ignorant, worthless
creature as I. I would not change my present _mission_ for any other
business in the whole world. I may tell you freely, God has of late
given me great freedom and fervency in prayer when I have been so
weak and feeble, my nature seemed as if it would speedily dissolve.
I feel as if my _all_ was lost, and I was undone, if the poor Heathen
be not converted. I feel different from what I did when I saw you
last, more _crucified_ to all the enjoyments of life. It would be very
refreshing to me, to see you here in this desert; especially in my weak
disconsolate hours: but, I could be content never to see you, or any
of my friends again in this world, if God would bless my labours to the
conversion of the poor Indians.
I have much that I could willingly communicate to you, which I must
omit, till Providence gives us leave to see each other. In the mean
time, I rest
_Your obliged friend and servant_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To his Brother John, at College.
_Crosweeksung, in New-Jersey, December 28, 1745._
_Very Dear Brother_,
――I AM in one continued and uninterrupted hurry; and divine Providence
throws so much upon me, that I do not see it will ever be otherwise.
May I “obtain mercy of God to be faithful to the death!” I cannot say,
I am weary of my hurry; I only want strength and grace to do more for
God.
My dear brother, _The Lord of heaven_, that has carried me through many
trials, _bless you_; bless you for time and eternity; and fit you to do
service for him in his church below, and to enjoy his blissful presence
in his church triumphant. My brother; “the time is short:” Oh let us
fill it up for God; let us count the sufferings of this present time as
nothing, if we can but “finish our course with joy.” Oh, let us strive
to live to God. I bless the Lord, I have nothing to do with _earth_,
but only to labour honestly in it for God, till I shall “accomplish as
an hireling my day.” I do not desire to live one minute for any thing
that _earth_ can afford. Oh, that I could live for none but God, till
my dying moment!
_I am your affectionate brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To his Brother Israel, at College, written a few Months
before his Death.
_Boston, June 30, 1747._
_My dear brother_,
IT is from the sides of _eternity_ I now address you. I am heartily
sorry, that I have so little strength to write what I long to
communicate to you. But let me tell you, my brother, _eternity_
is another thing than we ordinarily take it to be. Oh, how vast
and boundless! Oh, how fixed and unalterable! Oh, of what infinite
importance is it, that we be prepared for _eternity_! I have been just
dying for more than a week; and all around me have thought so: in this
time I have had clear views of _eternity_: have seen the blessedness
of the _godly_; and have longed to share their happy state; as well as
been comfortably satisfied, that I shall do so; but Oh, what anguish
is raised in my mind, to think of an _eternity_ for those who are
_Christless_, for those who bring their false hopes to the grave
with them! The sight was so dreadful, I could by no means bear it:
my thoughts recoiled, and I said, “Who can dwell with everlasting
burnings!” Oh, methought, that I could now see my friends, that I
might warn them, to see to it, they lay their foundation for _eternity_
sure. And you my dear brother, I have been particularly concerned for;
and have wondered I so much neglected conversing with you about your
spiritual state at our last meeting. Oh, let me beseech you now to
examine, whether you are indeed a _new creature_? Whether the glory of
God has ever been the highest concern with you? Whether you have ever
been reconciled to all the perfections of God? In a word, whether God
has been your portion, and a holy conformity to him your chief delight?
If you have reason to think you are _graceless_, Oh, give yourself no
rest, till God arise and save. But if the case should be otherwise,
bless God for his grace, and press after holiness.
Oh, my dear brother, flee fleshly _lusts_, and the inchanting
_amusements_, as well as corrupt _doctrines_ of the present day; and
strive to _live to God_. Take this as the last line from
_Your affectionate dying brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To a young Gentleman, a _Candidate_ for the _Ministry_,
written at the same time.
_Very dear Sir_,
HOW amazing it is, that the _living_ who _know they must die_, should
notwithstanding “put far away the evil day,” in a season of health
and prosperity: and live at such an awful distance from the grave,
and the great concerns beyond it! And especially, that any whose minds
have been divinely ♦enlightened, to behold the important things of
_eternity_ should live in this manner. And yet, how ♠frequently is
this the case? *How rare are the instances of those who live and act,
from day to-day, as on the verge of _eternity_; striving to fill up
all their remaining moments, in the service of their great _Master_?
We insensibly trifle away time, while we seem to have enough of it;
and are so strangely amused, as in a great measure to lose a sense of
the holiness, necessary to prepare us to be inhabitants of the heavenly
_paradise_. But, Oh, dear Sir, a _dying bed_, if we enjoy our reason,
will give another view of things. I have now, far more than three
weeks, lain under the greatest weakness; the greater part of the time,
expecting daily and hourly to enter into the eternal world. And Oh, of
what vast importance has a holy, spiritual life, appeared to me to be
in this season! I have longed to call upon all my friends, to make it
their business to _live to God_; and especially all that are designed
for, or engaged in the service of the sanctuary. O dear Sir, do not
think it enough, to live at the rate of _common Christians_. Alas, to
how little purpose do they often converse, when they meet together!
The visits, even of those who are called Christians indeed, are
frequently quite barren; and conscience cannot but condemn us for the
misemployment of time, while we have been conversant with them. But the
way to enjoy the divine presence, and be fitted for his service, is to
live a life of _great devotion_ and _constant self-dedication_ to him;
observing the motions and dispositions of our own hearts, whence we may
learn the corruptions that lodge there, and our constant need of help
from God for the performance of the least duty. And Oh, dear Sir, let
me beseech you frequently to attend the great and precious duties of
_secret fasting_ and _prayer_.
♦ “enlightend” replaced with “enlightened”
♠ “frequent” replaced with “frequently” per Errata
Oh labour to be prepared and qualified to do much for God. Suffer me
to entreat you earnestly to “give yourself to prayer, to reading and
meditation” on divine truths: strive to penetrate to the bottom of
them, and never be content with a superficial knowledge. By this means,
your thoughts will grow weighty and judicious; and you thereby will be
possessed of a valuable treasure, out of which you may produce “things
new and old,” to the glory of God.
And now, “I commend you to the grace of God;” earnestly desiring,
that a plentiful portion of the divine Spirit may rest upon you; that
you may _live to God_ in every capacity, and that you may be richly
qualified for the “inheritance of the saints in light.”
I scarce expect to see your face any more in the body; and therefore
intreat you to accept this as the last token of love, from
_Your sincerely affectionate dying friend_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To his Brother John, at Bethel, the Town of
Christian Indians in New-Jersey, written at Boston,
♦not long before his death.
♦ “before” replaced with “not long before” per Errata
_Dear Brother_,
*I AM now just on the verge of _eternity_, expecting very speedily to
appear in the unseen world. I feel myself no more an inhabitant on
earth, and sometimes earnestly long to “depart and be with Christ.” I
bless God, he has for some years given me an abiding conviction, that
it is impossible for any rational creature to enjoy true happiness
without being entirely “devoted to him.” Under the influence of this
conviction I have in some measure acted: Oh that I had done more so! I
saw both the excellency and necessity of holiness; but never in such a
manner as now, when I am just brought to the sides of the grave. Oh, my
brother, pursue after holiness: press towards the blessed mark; and let
your thirsty soul continually say, “I shall never be sanctified till I
awake in thy likeness.”
And now, my dear brother, as I must press you to pursue after
_personal_ holiness, to be as much in _fasting_ and _prayer_ as your
health will allow, and to live above the rate of _common Christians_:
so I must intreat you to attend to your public work; labour to
distinguish between true and false religion; and to that end, watch
the motions of God’s Spirit upon your own heart; look to him for help,
and impartially compare your experiences with his word.
Charge my people in the name of their _dying minister_, yea, in the
name of _him who was dead and is alive_, to live and walk as becomes
the gospel. Tell them, how great the expectations of God and his
people are from them, and how awfully they will wound God’s cause, if
they fall into vice: as well as fatally prejudice other poor Indians.
*Always insist, that their joys are _delusive_, although they may have
been rapt up into the _third heavens_, unless the main tenor of their
_lives_ be spiritual, watchful and holy. In pressing these things,
“thou shalt both save thyself, and those that hear thee.”――
God knows, I was heartily willing to have served him longer in the
work of the ministry, although it had still been attended with all the
_labours_ and _hardships_ of past years, if he had seen fit: but as his
will appears otherwise, I can with the utmost freedom say, “The will of
the Lord be done.” It affects me, to think of leaving you in a world of
sin: my heart pities you, that those storms and tempests are yet before
you, which through grace I am almost delivered from. But “God lives,
and blessed be my rock:” he is the same Almighty friend; and will, I
trust, be your guide and helper, as he has been mine.
And now, my dear brother, “I commend you to God and to the word of his
grace, which is able to build you up, and give you an inheritance among
all them that are sanctified.” May you enjoy the divine presence, both
in private and public; and may “the arms of your hands be made strong,
by the right hand of the mighty God of Jacob!” Which are the passionate
desires and prayers of
_Your affectionate dying brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
SOME
Reflections _and_ Observations
ON THE
Preceding _Memoirs_ of Mr. BRAINERD.
I. WE have here an opportunity, in a very lively _instance_, to see the
_nature_ of _true religion_; and the _manner_ of its _operation_ when
exemplified in a high degree. Particularly it may be observed.
1. How greatly Mr. Brainerd’s religion differed from that of some who,
depending on something past, settle in a cold, careless, and carnal
frame of mind, and in a neglect of thorough, earnest religion. Although
his convictions and conversion were exceeding clear, yet how far was
he from acting as though he thought he had _got through his work_, when
once he had obtained satisfaction of his interest in Christ? On the
contrary, this was with him but the beginning of his work, his entering
on the great business, his first setting out in his race. His obtaining
rest in Christ, after earnest striving to enter in at the strait
gate, he did not look upon as putting an end to any further occasion
for striving and violence in religion: but these were continued, and
maintained constantly, through all changes, to the very end of life.
He continued pressing forward, forgeting the things that were behind,
and reaching forth towards the things that were before. His pains and
earnestness in religion were rather increased than diminished, after he
had received satisfaction concerning the safety of his state. Love to
God, and longings after holiness, were more effectual to engage him to
pains and activity, than fear of hell had been before.
And as his conversion was not the end of his work, or of his diligence
in religion; so neither was it the end of the _work of the Spirit_ of
God on his heart; but rather the beginning; the first dawning of the
light, which thenceforward increased more and more; the beginning of
his holy affections, his sorrow for sin, his love to God, his rejoicing
in Christ, his longings after holiness. And the powerful operations
of the Spirit of God herein, were carried on, from the day of his
conversion, to his dying day. His religious experiences, his admiration,
joy, and praise, did not only hold for a few days, weeks, or months;
and then gradually die away, till they came to leave him without any
sensible experience of holy and divine affections, for months together;
as it is with many, who soon come to that pass, that it is again with
them much as it is used to be before their conversion, with respect to
any present views of God’s glory, or ardent out-goings of their souls
after divine objects; but only now and then they have a comfortable
reflection on times past; and so rest easy, thinking all well; they
have had a good clear work, and they doubt not but they shall go to
heaven when they die. How far otherwise was it with Mr. Brainerd! His
experiences, instead of dying away, were evidently of an increasing
nature. His first love, and other holy affections, even at the
beginning were very great; but after months and years, became
much greater, and more remarkable; and the exercises of his mind
continued exceeding great, (though not equally so at all times) without
remissness, and without dwindling away, even till his decease. They
began in a time of general deadness, and were greatly increased in the
general reviving of religion. And when a general deadness returned,
his experiences were still kept up in their height, and so continued
in a general course wherever he was, in sickness and in health, living
and dying. The change that was wrought in him at his conversion,
was agreeable to scripture, a great change, and an abiding change,
rendering him a new creature: not only a change as to comfort; and a
transient change, consisting in passing affections; but a change of
_nature_, a change of the abiding temper of his mind. Not a partial
change, in opinion, or outward reformation, much less a change from one
error to another; but an universal change, both internal, and external,
from the habits of sin, to universal holiness.
*It appears plainly, from his conversion to his death, that the great
object of the new appetites given him, and thenceforward maintained and
increased in his heart, was HOLINESS, conformity to God, living to God,
and glorifying him. This was what drew his heart; this was the center
of his soul; this was the ocean to which all his religious affections
tended: this was the object which engaged his eager desires and earnest
pursuits: he knew no true happiness, but this: this was what he longed
for most vehemently and constantly on _earth_; and this was with
him the beauty and blessedness of heaven, to be perfectly holy, and
perfectly exercised in the holy employments of heaven; to glorify God,
and enjoy him for ever.
*His religious affections were attended with _evangelical humiliation_;
consisting in a sense of his own insufficiency, and despicableness.
How deeply affected was he almost continually with his great defects in
religion; with his vast distance from that spirituality that became him;
with his ignorance, deadness, unsteadiness, barrenness? He was not only
affected with the remembrance of his former sinfulness, but with the
sense of his present vileness. He was not only disposed to think meanly
of himself as _before God_; but among men, and compared with them.
He was apt to think ♦other saints better than he; yea, to look upon
himself as the least of saints; yea, the vilest and worst of mankind,
And notwithstanding his great attainments in spiritual knowledge, yet
we find there is scarce any thing he is more frequently abased with,
than his ignorance.
♦ “think of other” replaced with “think other” per Errata
*How eminently did he appear to be of a _meek_ and _quiet_ spirit,
resembling the lamb-like, dove-like Spirit of Christ! How full of love,
meekness, quietness, forgiveness, and mercy! His love was not fondness
for a party, but universal; often exercised to his greatest opposers
and enemies. His love and meekness were effectual in expensive and
painful deeds of kindness; readily confessing faults under the greatest
trials, and humbling himself even at the feet of those from whom he had
suffered most: and from time to time praying for his enemies, abhorring
the thoughts of bitterness and resentment towards them. I scarce knew
where to look for a parallel instance of self-denial, in these respects,
in the present age. He was a person of great zeal; but how did he abhor
a bitter zeal, and lament it where he saw it! And though he was once
drawn into some degrees of it, by the force of example; yet how did he
go about with a heart bruised and broken in pieces for it all his life
after!
Of how _soft_ and _tender_ a spirit was he! How far were his
experiences, hopes, and joys, from a tendency to lessen conviction and
tenderness of conscience, to cause him to be less affected with present
and past sins, and less conscientious with respect to future sins,
more easy in the neglect of duties that are troublesome, less apt to
be alarmed at his own defects, and more easily induced to a compliance
with carnal appetites! On the contrary, how tender was his conscience!
how apt was his heart to smite him! how greatly was he alarmed at the
appearance of evil! how great and constant was his jealousy over his
own heart! how strict his care and watchfulness against sin! how deep
and sensible were the wounds that sin made in his conscience! Those
evils that are generally accounted small, were almost an insupportable
burden to him; such as his inward deficiencies, his having no more
love to God, any slackness or dulness, any unsteadiness, or wandering,
how did the consideration of such things as these abase him, and fill
him with shame and confusion! His love and hope, though they cast
out a servile fear of hell, yet were attended with, and promoted a
reverential filial fear of God, a dread of sin, and of God’s holy
displeasure. His assurance and comfort promoted and maintained mourning
for sin: holy mourning with him, was not only the work of an hour or
a day, at his first conversion; but he was a mourner for sin all his
days. He did not, after he received forgiveness, forget his past sins,
committed before his conversion; but the remembrance of them from time
to time, filled his heart with renewed grief: and how lastingly did the
sins committed after his conversion, affect and break his heart! If he
did any thing whereby he thought he had dishonoured God, he had never
done with calling it to mind with sorrow: though he was assured that
God had forgiven it, yet he never forgave himself.
His religion was not like a blazing meteor, flying through the
firmament with a bright train, and then quickly going out; but like the
steady lights of heaven, that are constant principles of light, though
sometimes hid with clouds. Nor like a land-flood, which flows far and
wide, bearing down all afore it, and then dried up; but like a stream
fed by living springs; which though sometimes diminished, yet is a
_constant stream_.
*Mr. Brainerd’s comforts were not like those of some other persons,
which are attended with a spiritual satiety, and put an end to their
religious longings, at least to the ardency of them. On the contrary,
how were they always attended with longings and thirstings after
greater degrees of conformity to God! And the greater and sweeter his
comforts were, the more vehement were his desires after holiness. For
his longings were not so much after joyful discoveries of God’s love;
as after greater spirituality, an heart more engaged for God, to love
and exalt, and depend upon him; an ability better to serve him, to do
more for his glory. And his desires were powerful and effectual, to
animate him to the eager pursuit of these things. His comforts never
put an end to his seeking after God, but greatly enlarged him therein.
His religion did not consist only in _experience_, without _practice_.
All his comforts had a direct tendency to practice; and this, not
merely a practice _negatively_ good, but a practice _positively_
holy, in a serious, devout, humble, meek, charitable, and beneficent
conversation: making the service of God, the business of life, which he
pursued with the greatest earnestness and diligence to the end of his
days.
♦III. The foregoing account shews, that there is indeed such a thing as
true _experimental religion_, arising from immediate divine influences,
supernaturally enlightening and convincing the mind, and powerfully
quickening, sanctifying, and governing the heart; which religion
is indeed of happy tendency, and of no hurtful consequence to human
society; notwithstanding there have been many pretences to experimental
religion, that have proved to be nothing but _enthusiasm_.
♦ point II. not indicated in text
If any insist, that Mr. Brainerd’s religion was _enthusiasm_, I would
ask, if such things as these are the fruits of enthusiasm, _viz._
honesty and simplicity, sincere and earnest desires and endeavours,
to know and do whatever is right, and to avoid every thing that is
wrong; love to God, placing the happiness of life in him; not only
in contemplating him, but in being active in pleasing, and ♦serving
him; a firm belief in the Messiah, as the Saviour of the world;
together with great love to him, and longing for the enlargement
of his kingdom; resignation to the will of God, under all trials;
benevolence to mankind, reaching all persons without distinction,
manifested in sweetness of speech and behaviour, mercy, liberality, and
earnest seeking the good of the souls and bodies of men; attended with
extraordinary humility, meekness, forgiveness of injuries, and love to
enemies; a modest, and decent deportment, among superiors, inferiors,
and equals: a diligent improvement of time, and earnest care to lose
no part of it; great watchfulness against all sorts ♠of sin, of heart,
speech, and action; and the foregoing amiable virtues all ending in a
marvellous peace, unmoveable calmness, and resignation, in the sensible
approaches of death: I say, if all these things are _enthusiasm_, that
enthusiasm is a desirable and excellent thing.
♦ “serve” replaced with “serving” per Errata
♠ “sin” replaced with “of sin” per Errata
And whereas there are many that are not professed opposers of
_experimental religion_, who yet doubt of it, from the _bad lives_ of
some professors; and are ready to determine there is nothing in all
the talk about being born again, because that many that pretend to it,
manifest no abiding alteration in their disposition and behaviour; are
as careless, carnal, or covetous as ever; yea, perhaps much worse than
ever: it is acknowledged, that this is the case with some; but they
may see it is not so with all. There are some indisputable instances of
such a change, a “renovation of the spirit of the mind,” and a “walking
in newness of life.” In the foregoing instance particularly, they may
see the abiding influence of such a work of conversion; the fruits of
such experience through a course of years; under a great variety of
circumstances, and the blessed event of it in life and death.
IV. Is there not much in the preceding memoirs to teach and excite to
duty, us who are called to the work of the ministry? What a deep sense
had he of the importance of that work, and with what weight did it lie
on his mind? How sensible was he of his own insufficiency for this work:
and how great was his dependence on God’s sufficiency! How solicitous,
that he might be fitted for it! And to this end how much time did
he spend in prayer and fasting, as well as reading and meditation;
_giving himself to these things_! How did he dedicate his whole life,
all his powers and talents to God and renounce the world, with all
its ensnaring enjoyments, that he might be wholly at liberty to serve
Christ in this work; and to please him who had chosen him to be his
soldier. With what solicitude, solemnity, and diligence did he devote
himself to God our Saviour, and, seek his presence and blessing, at
the time of his _ordination_! And how was his whole heart constantly
engaged, his whole time employed, his whole strength spent in the
business he then undertook!――And his history shews us the right way
to _success_ in the work of the ministry. He sought it as a resolute
soldier seeks victory, in a siege or battle, or as a man that runs a
race for a prize. Animated with love to Christ and souls, how did he
“labour always fervently,” not only in word and doctrine, in public and
private, but in prayers day and night, “wrestling with God” in secret,
and “travailing in birth,” with unutterable groans, “until, Christ were
formed” in the hearts of the people to whom he was sent! How did he
thirst for a blessing on his ministry; and “watch for souls as one that
must give account!” How did he go forth in the strength of the Lord
God; depending on a special influence of the _Spirit_! And what was the
happy fruit at last, though after long waiting, and many discouraging
appearances! Like a true son of Jacob, he persevered in wrestling until
the breaking of the day.
V. The foregoing account may instruct _Christians in general_; as it
shews in many respects, the right way of _practising_ religion, in
order to obtain the ends of it; or how Christians should “run the race
set before them,” if they would adorn their profession, be serviceable
to mankind, have the comforts of religion while they live, be free
from disquieting doubts; enjoy peace in the approach of death, and
“finish their course with joy.”――――In general he much recommended,
for this purpose, the _redemption of time_, and great _diligence in
watchfulness_.
*And his example, with regard to one duty in special, may be of great
use to both ministers and private Christians: I mean the duty of secret
fasting. The reader has seen how much Mr. Brainerd recommends this duty,
how frequently he exercised himself in it; and of what great benefit
it evidently was to his soul. Among all the days he spent in secret
fasting and prayer, there is scarce an instance of one, but what was
attended with a remarkable blessing.――――But it must be observed, that
when he set about this duty, he did it in good earnest: “stirring up
himself to take hold of God,” and “continuing instant in prayer,” with
much of the spirit of Jacob, who said to the angel. “I will not let
thee go, except thou bless me.”
VI. One thing more may be observed in the preceding account, the
_remarkable disposal_ of ♦divine Providence, with respect to the
circumstances of his last _sickness and death_.
♦ “di-divine” replaced with “divine”
Though he had long been infirm, his constitution being broken by
fatigues and hardships; and though he was often brought very low by
illness, yet his life was preserved, till he had seen that which he
had so greatly desired, a glorious work of grace among the Indians.
And though it was the pleasure of God, that he should be taken off
from his labours among that people, who were so dear to him; yet this
was not before they were well instructed in the Christian religion,
confirmed in the Christian faith and manners, formed into a church;
brought into a way with respect to the education of children; collected
in a town by themselves, on a good piece of land of their own; and
introduced into the way of husbandry. These things were just brought to
pass by his indefatigable application, and then he was taken off from
his work. If this had been but a little sooner, they would by no means
have been prepared for such a dispensation: and it probably would have
been ♦more hurt to their spiritual interest, ♠and to the cause of
Christianity among them.
♦ “more” replaced with “more hurt” per Errata
♠ “and of” replaced with “and to” per Errata
The time and circumstances of his illness were so ordered, that he had
just opportunity to finish his journal. A foundation was hereby laid
for a concern in others for that cause, and proper care and measures
to be taken for the maintaining it after his death. As it has actually
proved to be of great benefit in this respect; it having excited
many in those parts, and also more distant parts of America, to exert
themselves for the promoting so glorious a work, remarkably opening
their hearts and hands: and not only in America, but in Great-Britain,
where that Journal has been an occasion of some large benefactions,
made for the promoting the interest of Christianity among the Indians.
He was not taken off from the work of the ministry among his people,
till his _brother_ was in a capacity to succeed him: who succeeds
him in the like spirit, and under whose prudent and faithful care his
congregation has flourished, and been very happy, since he left them;
and probably could not have been so well provided for otherwise. If
Mr. Brainerd had been disabled sooner, his _brother_ would not have
been ready to stand up in his place; having taken his first degrees
at college, but about that time that he was seized with this fatal
consumption.
Though in that winter that he lay sick at Mr. Dickinson’s in
Elisabeth-Town, he continued, for a long time in an extreme low state,
so that sometimes it was hardly expected he would live a day to an
end; yet his life was spared awhile longer; he lived to see his brother
arrive in New-Jersey, being come to ♦succeed him in the care of his
Indians: and he himself had opportunity to assist in his examination
and introduction into his business: and to commit the conduct of his
dear people to one whom he well knew, and could use freedom with in
giving him particular instructions, and under whose care he could leave
his congregation with great chearfulness.
♦ “succed” replaced with “succeed”
The providence of God was remarkable in so ordering it, that before
his death he should take a journey to Boston; which was of very happy
consequence to the interest of religion, and especially among his
own people. By this means, as has been observed, he was brought into
acquaintance with many persons of note and influence, ministers, and
others, belonging both to the town and various parts of the country;
and had opportunity under the best advantages, to bear a testimony for
God and true religion.
The providence of God was observable in his going to Boston at a time
when not only the honourable commissioners were seeking missionaries,
to the Six Nations, but just after his journal, which gives an account
of his labours and success among the Indians, had been spread at
Boston; whereby his name was known, and the minds of serious people
were well prepared to receive him, and the testimony he gave for
God; to exert themselves for upholding the interest of religion among
his congregation, and among the Indians elsewhere; and to regard his
judgment concerning the qualifications of missionaries. If he had gone
there the fall before, (when he had intended it, but was prevented by
a sudden increase of his illness) it would not have been to so good
effect; and also if he had not been unexpectedly detained in Boston.
When he went from my house he intended to make but a very short
stay there; but divine Providence by his being brought so low there,
detained him long: thereby to make way for the fulfilling its own
gracious designs.
Thus, although it was the pleasure of God, that he should be taken away
from his congregation; yet it was granted to him that before he died
he should see them well provided for every way: he saw them provided
for with one to instruct them, and take care of their souls; his own
brother whom he could confide in; he saw a good foundation laid for the
support of the school among them: those things that before were wanting,
being supplied; and he had also opportunity to leave all his dying
charges, with his successor in the care of his people, and by him to
send his dying counsels to them.
*Another thing, wherein appears the merciful disposal of Providence,
was that he did not die in the wilderness, among the savages at
Kaunaumeek, or the Forks of Delaware, or at Susquahannah: but in a
place where his dying behaviour might be observed, and some account
given for the benefit of survivors: and also where care might be taken
of him in his sickness, and proper honours done him at his death.
*I would not conclude my observations on the merciful circumstances
of Mr. Brainerd’s death, without acknowledging with thankfulness, the
gracious dispensation of Providence to me and my family in so ordering,
that he (though the ordinary place of his abode was more than two
hundred miles distant) should be cast to my house, in his last sickness,
and should die here: so that we had opportunity for much conversation
with him, and to shew him kindness in such circumstances, and to see
his dying behaviour, to hear his dying speeches, to receive his dying
counsels, and to have the benefit of his dying prayers. May God in
infinite mercy grant, that we may ever retain a proper remembrance
of these things, and make a due improvement of the advantages we have
had! The Lord grant also, that the foregoing account may be for ♦the
spiritual benefit of all that read it, and prove a happy means of
promoting true religion in the world. Amen.
♦ duplicate word “the” removed
An EXTRACT of
Miss _Mary Gilbert_’s JOURNAL.
TO THE READER.
1. AMONG the innumerable novelties which have appeared in the world,
within half a century, I do not remember to have seen the experience of
a child written by herself. Herein much variety is not to be expected,
nor any art or ornament at all: as she set down from time to time,
merely for her own use, just what occurred between God and her own soul.
But on this very account, persons of understanding will set the greater
value upon it: because it contains only genuine Christian experience,
painted in its native colours.