_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._
_Rev. and Dear Sir_,
SINCE I saw you last, you cannot well tell with what pleasure I have
reflected on the uncommon power that frequently attended the word at
_Bexley_. It was to me a sign of GOD’s good will, both to ministers
and people. The former I was convinced of, before I left _England_.
The last sermon I heard you preach, gave me much satisfaction. I hope
ere now you are convinced of the latter also, and have seen some good
effects amongst your parishioners. However, this I am assured of, we
shall all in due time reap the fruit of our labours, if we faint not.
Let me therefore exhort you, by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS,
to continue unwearied in well doing. You have seen the afflictions of
GOD’s spiritual _Israel_. “Do and live,” is most they hear. But what
is this, but requiring them to make bricks without straw? Arise, arise,
then, my dear Mr. ――――; proclaim the LORD to be their righteousness.
The everlasting I AM now sends you forth: say not they will disbelieve
my report, for GOD seems to have given his people the hearing ear
and obedient heart. Fear not the face of man, for the LORD, if you go
out in his strength, shall be with you, whithersoever you go. I hope
my dear and honoured friend ere now hath prevented my exhortations.
Methinks I see him, with all boldness declaring the whole counsel of
GOD, and the attentive people receiving joyfully the gracious words,
which proceed out of his mouth. Go on, my dear brother, go on; may
the LORD bless you more and more, daily adding to the number of your
spiritual children. ―――― I thank you, from my soul, for all favours
conferred on me, and I pray you may always confess our LORD and
his disciples before men. My most sincere respects attend your
help-mate and true yoke-fellow. You are constantly upon my heart.
My next journal will acquaint you how lovingly GOD hath dealt with
Your most unworthy friend and servant,
_G. W._