_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._
_My dear Sister in CHRIST_,
WANT of time, not want of respect, has prevented my answering your
kind letters. I esteem you highly for CHRIST’s sake. I believe you
to be one whom GOD has chosen out of the world, and hath sealed to
the day of redemption. Nothing, therefore, shall pluck you out of
his hands. Was it not for this promise, my soul would be exceeding
sorrowful at the prospect of what I may undergo. The innumerable
temptations that attend a popular life, sometimes make me think it
would be best for me to withdraw. But then I consider, that He, who
delivered _Daniel_ out of the den of lions, and the three children out
of the fiery furnace, is able and willing to deliver me also out of
the fiery furnace of popularity and applause, and from the fury of
those, who, for preaching CHRIST, and him crucified, are my inveterate
enemies. In his strength therefore, and at his command, whenever his
providence shall call, I will venture out again. As yet my trials have
been nothing. Hereafter a winnowing time may come; then we shall see,
who is on the LORD’s side, and who dare to confess CHRIST before men.
None but those who wholly rely on the Redeemer’s righteousness, and
are truly born again of GOD. Oh pray, that I may be found faithful.
Satan hath been very busy with me since I saw you, but I trust the
LORD, by these inward trials, will purge me, that I may bring forth
more fruit. Cease not to pray, that this may be the happy case of,
Your servant in the gospel,
_G. W._