_To Mrs. E―――― C――――._
_Savannah, June 25, 1740._
_My dear Sister_,
YOUR letter afforded me much inward pleasure. Surely it bespeaks the
writer not to be far from the kingdom of GOD. You was then waiting
for our LORD’s salvation: ere now, I trust, CHRIST hath manifested his
glory, filled you with his blessed spirit, and thereby sealed you to
the day of redemption. ’Tis good to be long in an humbled state: it
is the best preparation for solid, lasting comfort. Blessed are they
that mourn most, for they shall be the most comforted: not that we are
violently to keep ourselves in such a state; but when GOD’s hand lies
heavy upon us, we are patiently to tarry the LORD’s leisure, till he
reveals himself to our souls. I was a mourner a long while; but, glory
be to GOD! I have for some years been almost continually comforted;
at least kept from doubting of my interest in JESUS CHRIST. I can with
an humble boldness cry out, “My LORD and my GOD!” He daily manifests
himself to my soul, and causes me to feel my dependance on his free
grace and sovereign love. This is the kingdom of GOD within us.
O, my dear sister, what would I give, were all the world partakers
of this unspeakable gift! I long, I burn with an ardent zeal after
the salvation of my dear brethren, who are dead in trespasses and
sins. Poor souls! Why am I taken, and they left? O the sovereign,
free, unmerited, distinguishing love of my and your JESUS! My dear
sister, let us love him, let us obey him; let us suffer for him with
a chearful heart! His love will sweeten every cup, though never so
bitter. Let us pledge him willingly, and continue faithful even unto
death. A scene of sufferings lies before us. Who knows but we may wade
to our Saviour through a sea of blood? I expect (O pray that I may be
strengthened if called to it) to die for his great name’s sake. ’Twill
be sweet to wear a martyr’s crown. Dear Madam, adieu. I remember GOD’s
goodness to us at _Broad-Oaks_. I pray for you and yours. I trust your
daughters keep close to JESUS. Salute them kindly in my name. Read my
Journal, and give hearty thanks for
Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST JESUS,
_G. W._