_To the Rev. Mr. P――――._
_Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._
_Rev. and dear Sir_,
I HAVE been much concerned since I saw you, lest I behaved not with
that humility toward you, which is due from a babe to a father in
CHRIST: but you know, reverend Sir, how difficult it is to meet with
success, and not be puffed up with it, and therefore if any such
thing was discernible in my conduct, oh pity me, and pray to the LORD
to heal my pride. All I can say is, that I desire to learn of JESUS
CHRIST to be meek and lowly in heart; but my corruptions are so strong,
and my employ so dangerous, that sometimes I am afraid. But wherefore
do I fear? He that hath given me himself, will he not freely give me
all things? By his help then I am resolved to ask till I receive, to
seek till I find, and to knock till I know myself. Blessed be GOD,
I have had a sweet retirement to search out my spirit and bewail
the infirmities of my public ministrations. Alas! who can hope to be
justified by his works? My preaching, praying, &c. are only _splendida
peccata_. The blood of CHRIST applied to my soul by a living faith, is
the only thing that can render them acceptable. This is the doctrine
which you, reverend Sir, have been enabled to preach, and for which
no doubt you have suffered reproach: But you are now almost at your
journey’s end. Yet a little while, and you shall enter into your
Master’s joy. In the mean while the LORD, I am persuaded, will keep
you as the apple of his eye. He will not forsake you when you are
grey-headed, and your strength faileth you. The moment you are ripe
for our common Master, he shall translate you to glory; _I præ,
sequar_. I am a child; I must be tutored and made meet by sufferings
to be a partaker of the heavenly inheritance with the saints in light:
But I am persuaded GOD will for CHRIST’s sake finally save, reverend
Sir,
Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST,
_G. W._