_To Mrs. S――――, in Charles-Town._
_On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741._
_Dear Mrs. S――――_,
MY soul is now in an heavenly frame, swallowed up in GOD, and melted
down by the love of my dear LORD JESUS. It is almost too big to
speak. I will give it vent by writing to you. Our master hath been
exceeding gracious, and has shewn me several tokens for good, which
I desired of him in secret prayer. Last night, I think I received as
full satisfaction as I could desire, in respect to _my marriage_. I
believe what I have done, is of GOD; tho’ I know not when my heart
was more disengaged from earthly thoughts than now. I only desire,
that the dear JESUS may be glorified in me, whether it be by life or
by death. I depend on your sending me a particular account of affairs
at _Charles-Town_. I have wrote to many; you will hear how my letters
are received. I shall be glad to hear how it is with your own soul.
I beseech you to live near to CHRIST, and to keep up a holy walk with
GOD. Be inward with GOD in your duties. Trust and hang on GOD, even
when he hides himself from you. He will be your guide unto death.
Hunger and thirst daily after the righteousness of CHRIST. Be content
with no degree of sanctification. Be always crying out, “LORD, let me
know more of myself and of thee; O let me receive grace for grace of
thy dear Son.” This, at present, is the full desire of my soul. I am
persuaded the LORD will satisfy it. GOD is love; we cannot think too
highly of him; we cannot expect too great things to be done by him.
His right hand, I believe, will bring mighty things to pass. I am
now entering on a scene of trials. The LORD hath sent me on the seas
to prepare me for them. Not that I depend on any stock of grace
already received, I would look to CHRIST continually. But whither am
I running? I forget myself. I almost fancy, I am talking with you. I
have only room to acquaint you, that dear _J―――― S――――_ sits by me,
and cordially salutes you, with
Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in CHRIST,
_G. W._