_To Madam M――――._
_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._
I Cannot think of the repeated assistances you gave me by the loan of
your coach, and at the same time forbear sending you a line of thanks.
But what is of greater concern, I think it my duty to write to you
about a more important affair; I mean the salvation of your precious
and immortal soul. GOD was pleased to incline your heart, Madam, to
hear and receive the word with joy. Neither the cares of the world,
nor the deceitfulness of riches, I trust have been permitted to choak,
and hinder the growth of it in your soul. Indeed, Madam, you cannot
be too watchful. It is a blessed, and careful thing, to be a true
Christian. The first step to it is a broken heart, a heart melted down
with a sense of sin, and flying to JESUS CHRIST for righteousness,
sanctification and eternal redemption. Thousands indeed place
christianity in good desires, and the having good desires; but this
and much more a person may have, and yet miscarry at last. Pure and
undefiled religion consists in a lively faith in JESUS CHRIST, as the
only mediator between GOD and man. A faith that changes and renews the
whole soul, takes it entirely off the world, and fixes it wholly upon
GOD. This, Madam, is the faith that you have so often heard me preach,
and of which I pray GOD you may be a partaker. Though you have it not
yet, you need not despair; GOD will give it to all who sincerely ask
of him. It is true, Madam, that not many mighty are called; but it is
not your riches shall keep you from heaven if you truly believe on the
LORD JESUS. Faith in him will enable you to overcome the world, and
cause you even to triumph over the lust of the eye and the pride of
life. Faith will set you above the fear of man, and enable you to
rejoice in being accounted a fool for CHRIST’s sake. That GOD may
impart this faith to your own, and little master’s soul, is the hearty
prayer of, Madam,
Your obliged humble servant,
_G. W._