To this is to be added, that my dear child had again during the whole of
this year her education free at a boarding school, as stated at the
close of the last year, whereby I saved about 50l. Also my traveling
expenses to and from Germany, and other expenses, connected with my
service in Germany, were paid out of the 500l. to which reference has
been made. Adding these two items to 433l., I had at least 500l.
Esteemed reader, what do you think of this? Is it not a pleasant thing,
in the end, even for this life, really to trust in God? Verily, thus I
have found it to be, and thus do I find it to be, the longer I live.
Only there must be real trust in God, and it must be more than merely
using words. If we trust in God, we look to Him alone, we deal with Him
alone, and we are satisfied with His knowing about our need. Two things
I add, as I write my experience and the Lord's dealings with me for
the profit of the saints.
1. During the last year I resolved, that, by Gods help, I would seek
to be more than ever a channel for the Communication of God's
bounties, and to communicate to those in need, or to give to the work of
God. I acted according to the light which God gave me, and He
condescended to make me His steward in one way or another far more
abundantly than ever before. Would we wish to have means intrusted to us
by the Lord, or to succeed in our trade, business, profession, etc., we
must be truly desirous of being His stewards, and only His stewards.
Read what I have written at length on this subject within the last
twenty pages of the third part of this my Narrative; and, if you have
read it before, read it yet again.
2. In looking over my journal, I find that during this year also I was
more than once without a shilling, yea without a penny, though my income
was about 500l.
April 29, 1846. Today my beloved wife and myself had the inexpressibly
great joy of receiving a letter from our beloved daughter, while we are
staying in the Lord's service at Chippenham, in which she writes that
she has now found peace in the Lord Jesus. Thus our prayers are turned
into praises.
About 18 mouths before this I began especially to pray for the
conversion of my dear child, and the Lord soon after seems to have begun
to work in her heart. I knew little of her state of mind before
receiving her letter, for I did not wish to force anything upon her of a
spiritual character, but leave her to be attracted by the loveliness of
the things of God. After hearing from her in April, 1846, she was not
received at once to communion, but, being so young, I judged it
desirable to watch the work in her soul. Towards the end of the year,
however, my fellow-labourers being fully satisfied, she was baptized and
received into communion, when she was 14 years and 3 months old.
Supplies for the School-BibleMissionary and Tract Fund, sent in
answer to prayer, from May 26, 1846, to May 26, 1848.
During no period, from the commencement of the operations of this
Institution up to May 26, 1846, was I intrusted by the Lord with such
large sums, as during the one to which this chapter refers. I had never
had more need of pecuniary supplies than during those two years, on
account of the many pressing calls; but, at the same time, I had the
exceeding great joy and privilege of being able to respond to them in
such a way as I had never before been allowed to do. These remarks apply
to all the various objects of the Institution, but especially to the
supplies for brethren who labour at Home and Abroad in word and
doctrine without being connected with any society, or without having
any regular salary for preaching the Word.
On May 26, 1846, after the accounts had been closed, a check for 100l.
was given to me, the application of which was left to my disposal. I put
half the amount to the fund for these objects, and half to the
Orphan-Fund, When the accounts were closed, there was 91l. 4s. 11 ¾ d.
in, and for these objects, to which this 50l. was added; therefore I
began this period with more means than I had had in hand at any time
previously at the beginning of a fresh period; and as was its beginning
so was the continuance. It has often struck me, that one especial reason
why, on the whole, I was allowed to have so little trial with regard to
means for the work during those two years, in comparison with former
times, may have been, that thereby the Lord would say that He was
willing to give what would be needed when once the New Orphan-House
should be built, though the expenses would be about two thousand five
hundred pounds a year more than they were before. Another reason also
may have been, because in many other ways trials of faith and patience
came upon me in connexion with the Institution during those two years,
that therefore the Lord may not have exercised me so much by the want of
pecuniary means as before. But especially also one reason, why the Lord
generally gave me so great an abundance during those two years, seems to
me this, that it might be seen, not only how He can help us day by day
when we are poor, but also how able and willing He is to cause us to
abound, when this is for His honour and for our profit.
June 4, 1846. To day was given to me, just when I rose from my knees,
after having asked the Lord for more means, especially for missionary
purposes, the sum of 150l., with the request to use of it 50l. for the
Orphans, 50l. for labourers in England; and 50l. for labourers abroad.
July 6. Besides several small donations which came in since June 4, I
received today 50l., of which one half is intended by the donor for the
Orphans, the other half for these objects.
July 16. Today I received One Hundred Pounds from a donor who had lost
about one half of his property, and who gives this donation as "A
thank-offering to God for having left to him as much as he has." I put
one half of this donation to the funds for these objects, and the other
half to the Orphan Fund.
Aug. 1. About 24l. more has come in since July 16th. During the last two
days I have sent 110l. to Foreign labourers, and 15l. to brethren who
labour in England; and having thus begun to reduce our Missionary Fund,
the Lord gives fresh supplies. The evening before last was sent to me
5l. from Ludlow. Today I received 5l. from Scarborough, of which 4l. is
for Missionary objects, and 1l. for the Orphans. Thus the Lord gives me
the desire of my heart, to help more and more the dear brethren who
labour in word and doctrine, either in this country or in foreign
lands.
From the commencement of this Institution on March 5th, 1834, it had
been my desire to employ part of the funds with which I might be
intrusted, in aiding missionary brethren in foreign lands, who are not
supported by any regular salary; and for several years I have likewise
had the desire to assist brethren, labouring in similar circumstances,
in Great Britain and Ireland. The Lord also had given me the great
privilege to assist such brethren more or less during the time that this
Institution had been in operation; but especially He began during the
two years, to which this chapter refers, to allow me to do so in a far
greater degree than before. I knew it to be a fact, that many brethren,
who preach the Word, without having any salary for doing so, or property
to live upon, were in need. Now it might be said that such brethren
ought to trust in God; that, if they preach Jesus as the only hope for
the salvation of sinners, they ought to set them a good example by
trusting themselves in God for the supply of their temporal necessities,
in order that unconverted persons thereby might be led to trust in the
Lord Jesus alone for the salvation of their souls. This is true, quite
true. Preachers of the precious good news of salvation to every sinner
who puts his trust in the merits of the Lord Jesus, ought indeed
themselves to depend upon God, their Lord and Father, for the supply of
their temporal necessities; but I also felt that I, as their brother,
ought to seek to help them as far as lay in me. To this I set myself
more than ever after the beginning of the year 1846, as I knew, that,
from particular causes, there was an especial call to help such
brethren; and as my own means would go but a little way, I gave myself
to more earnest prayer than ever for such brethren. The result was,
that, during the two years of this period, the Lord so answered my daily
supplications with regard to this particular, that I was honoured to
send nearly three times as much to Home and Foreign labourers, as during
any previous period of the same length. 1,559l. 11s. 6d. was spent in
this way, by which twenty-one brethren were assisted who laboured in
Foreign lands, and nineteen who laboured in Great Britain and Ireland.
Large as this sum is, in comparison with what I had been able to do in
this particular in former years, yet it is small, very small, in
comparison with what my heart desired to be able to do for these forty
brethren. It has frequently, yea almost always, so happened, that the
assistance which God has allowed me to send to such brethren, has come
to them at a time of great need. Sometimes they had no money at all
left. Sometimes even their last provisions were almost consumed, when I
sent them supplies. Some of them are fathers of large families, or have
sickly wives and children; some were once well off in this world, but
for Christ's sake have become poor; and some have had for Christ's
sake their all taken from them. Is it not an honour to help such
brethren? I could fill hundreds of pages by giving extracts from the
letters of the dear brethren to whom I have sent help, and they would be
greatly to the edification of the reader; but I do not feel free to do
so.--As I have not only been labouring for these brethren in prayer
that God would intrust me with means and allow me the privilege of
helping them, but as I also have asked God to direct me especially to
send to those who might be in particular need, in case I could not help
them all; and as I have sought by an encouraging word to strengthen
their hands in God; there is great reason to believe, that these dear
brethren have not only been helped by these pecuniary supplies in a
temporal point of view, but also that the fact, of God sending them help
in their extremity, has tended to refresh and strengthen their hearts,
and to lead them more and more to trust in Him.
Sep. 4. 38l. more has come in since Aug. 1st for these objects, and
today there was given to me 305l. 17s. 3d. for Home and Foreign
labourers, for present use for the Orphans, and for the other parts of
the work. Thus I have again the desire of my heart given to me in being
able to assist a number of dear brethren at home and abroad, to whom I
desired to send help. Of this sum I took 205l. 17s. 3d. for these
objects, and 100l. for the Orphans.
Sept. 9. Since the 4th I have sent out about 60l. already for brethren
who labour in England and Foreign lands. This morning I received from C.
W. 25l. more for missionary objects.
Oct. 22. This morning's post had brought no means. Whilst walking in
my little garden for meditation and prayer, I said to myself--"Though
the post has brought no means, yet the Lord can send even this day rich
supplies." It was not two minutes after this, when a letter was handed
to me, which had been brought that moment, containing two Fifty Pound
Notes and these words: "My little children, let us not love in word,
neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."-40l. for missionaries;
Demerara and others, dependant on God for supplies. 10l. for Home
missionaries, dependant on God for their support. 10l. for the Orphans.
10l. for the poor of Bethesda and Salem Church. 10l. for Mr. Müller.
10l. for Mr. Craik. 5l. for Bibles and Testaments. 5l. for rent, &c. of
chapels."-Thus I had a fresh answer to my prayers, which had been
again brought before the Lord this morning, that He would enable me
still more to help the dear brethren who labour at home and abroad in
dependence upon Him for supplies.
Dec. 22. During the last two months about 70l. more has come in, chiefly
for Missionary purposes. Of these donations, about eighty in number, I
only mention that there was given on Nov. 5, the sum of 6l. 14s., being
the tenth part of profits arising from shares which a brother has in
coal mines. Now today, Dec. 22, I received 175l. more for these
funds, which I took as a further precious answer to my supplications to
God, for help for home and foreign labourers, and for means to procure a
fresh stock of tracts.
March 7, 1847. Often of late have I besought the Lord that He would be
pleased to give me more means for those objects. For more than nine
months we have on the whole abounded more than at any time during the
thirteen years since this work first began; but now there was only 15l.
left for the support of six day schools, two Sunday schools, an adult
school, and the circulation of Bibles and Tracts. Often also of late had
I entreated the Lord that He would be pleased to condescend to use me
still further as a steward, in allowing me to send help to the many dear
brethren whom I know labouring at home and abroad without any salary,
the need of many of whom I knew. Under these circumstances I received
this morning 150l. with the following lines:
"Dear brother,
"I have pleasure in sending you 100l. on account of labourers in the
Lord's vineyard at home and abroad, and 50l. for other work in your
hands.
"Yours very affectionately,
"* *."
Thus my request was in a measure answered with regard to home and
foreign labourers, and by taking half of the 50l. for the schools and
the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, I had also something for these
objects. The other 25l. I put to the Orphan Fund.
March 12. The 100l. for home and foreign labourers was soon portioned
out. The difficulty was not to spend it, but how to make it do, so that
all, who seemed to me to need, might get a little. On this account I
prayed still further during the last four days for means for home and
foreign labourers, and now this morning, when I arose from my knees,
after having again asked the Lord about tills matter, I received a
letter in which C. W. sent me 30l. for missionaries.
April 5. I have been praying day by day, ever since I was able during
the last month to send about 130l. to home and foreign labourers, that
the Lord would be pleased soon again to give me means for them, on
account of their great need; indeed, all our means were so exhausted,
that I had only just enough, for tomorrow evening, to meet the weekly
expenses connected with the six day schools, when this morning I
received 125l. for these objects. What a precious help! How is my heart
refreshed by this seasonable answer to prayer!--Almost immediately
after this donation had been given to me, I received a letter from
Demerara about the great need among the brethren who labour there, by
which intelligence the seasonable help, just received, has become still
more precious to me.
Thirteen other small donations came in between April 5th and May 13th,
and on May 13th I received 100l. for missionary purposes.
On June 8th was given 100l. for missionary purposes.
June 30. For the whole period, since the accounts were last closed, more
than 13 months since, we have not been so poor with regard to these
funds as today. Last evening I paid out the last money to the brethren
who labour in the day schools, in giving them their weekly salary. Under
these circumstances a brother in the Lord, who resides about 200 miles
from this, and who had been staying in my house two days, gave me 30l.
to dispose of as I thought best, only that missionary brethren should be
remembered. I took therefore 15l. for Missions, and the other 15l. for
the SchoolBible and Tract Fund. What a seasonable help!
July 16. Today was given to me, when now again the money received on
June 30th for the schools, &c., had been all but entirely expended (as
only little had come in since), the sum of 110l. for these objects.
Aug. 25. Great had been my desire to send fresh supplies to the home and
foreign labourers. Day by day had I been again praying for means for
them since July 16th. Now also I had nothing in hand for the Bible and
Tract Fund; and as to the schools, there was not nearly enough to pay
the weekly salaries to the teachers next Tuesday evening, when I
received this evening 120l. for these objects.
Aug. 26. This morning I received still further from C. W. 20l. for home
and foreign labourers.
Sept. 14. Day by day I am bringing before the Lord the necessities of
the home and foreign labourers, whom I seek to help, especially as I
found in what great need some brethren were, when a short time since
they received the help which the Lord allowed me to send them. Now this
afternoon 1 received from Norwich 5l. 6s. for missionary purposes, and
also 2 rings, a cornelian necklace., an amber necklace, and a pair of
amber bracelets.
Oct. 4. I have now been again praying much for many days for means for
home and foreign labourers as well as for means for the other objects,
having very little in hand, and having reason to believe that several of
the brethren whom I seek to help are in great need. This evening I
received from a brother, as the first fruits of his salary, a sovereign
for home and foreign labourers. I take this as an earnest out of the
hands of God that He will soon send me more.--Received also 5s.
Oct. S. This morning I received the following letter, at the very moment
while I was on my knees, waiting still further upon the Lord for help
for the various objects, and especially also for means for home and
foreign labourers.
"* * * *, Oct. 3, 1847.
"Beloved Brother,
"The enclosed sum of 30l. is in my hands, and it does not appear that the
Lord has need of it here, either for my own wants, or others under my
notice. It seems likely that He may have need of it for the help of
missionary labourers, who are depending on Himself. Would you kindly
dispense it, as you may see good, to any who are labouring in the Word
at home and abroad; or if you see other pressing need for it among the
saints or for the Orphans, use it rather for them, &c."
I took the whole of this donation for these objects, as evidently coming
in answer to prayer for them.
Oct. 12. The very great need of some of the dear brethren who labour in
the Word, and whom I seek to assist, had led me again day by day to
bring their cases before God. I also needed help for the School,
Bible and Tract Fund. Now this evening the Lord has once more helped me
by a donation of 180l., of which I took 40l. for the Orphans, 100l. for
home and foreign labourers and 40l. for the School, Bible and Tract
Fund. How seasonable and how precious this help! How precious to me as
the fruit of many prayers, and how seasonable to many who are in need,
and who will be thus assisted! Moreover, I am just now in deep sorrow
and great trial, the cause of which I will not mention here; and thus
God Himself cheers and refreshes my heart, and tells me by this fresh
precious and manifest answer to prayer, that He is mindful of His poor
unworthy servant, and of the work in which he is engaged. There came in
five small donations besides today.
Dec. 30. When in the greatest need, so that I should not have been able
to pay the weekly salaries of the teachers of the day schools next
Tuesday, I received today from C. W. 10l., the disposal of which being
left to me, I took half of it for the school fund and half for the
Orphans.
Dec. 31. The year closes under the smiles of our Heavenly Father upon
this work, in giving us another proof that He is indeed mindful of our
need and attentive to our supplications. I received today 100l., to be
used as most needed. I took of it 50l. for these objects and 50l. for
the Orphans. I scarcely ever received a donation more seasonably; for
there are only means enough for next week for the teachers, Bibles and
tracts are needed, and I have been long waiting upon God for means for
home and foreign labourers. But this donation only furnishes me with
means for present necessities for the schools, and to order some tracts.
As to ordering Bibles and sending help to foreign and home labourers, I
must still further wait upon God.
Jan. 1, 1848. Today I received still further, for the benefit of the day
schools, the sum of 10l.
Jan. 6. Only 1l. 5s. has come in since the first. This evening 120l. was
given to me, of which the donor intends 20l. for home and foreign
labourers. The other 100l. was left at my disposal. I took therefore of
it 70l. for the Orphans, 10l. for the various schools, 10l. for the
circulation of the Holy Scriptures, and 10l. for the circulation of
tracts.
Feb. 10. There came in about 65l. more for missionary purposes during
the month, of January, and today was given to me a donation of 100l.,
the disposal of which being left to me, I took half of it for these
objects, and half for the Orphans, and thus I am able, after much
waiting upon God for it, to send a little more help to brethren who
labour in the Word.
April 13. This is only the second time, since May 26, 1846, that the
means for these objects have been completely exhausted, though we have
been two or three times besides brought very low in funds. The last
money there was in hand was spent in paying the weekly salaries of the
teachers the day before yesterday. There was therefore nothing for this
purpose for next week, nor were there any means for the circulation of
Bibles and tracts, and for aiding missionary efforts. Under these
circumstances prayer and faith were again resorted to. For my universal
remedy in need of any kind is, to make known my requests unto God, and
then I seek to believe that God has heard me for His dear Son's sake,
and I look out for answers to my petitions, and fully expect them. I had
also particularly requested four brethren, masters of the boys' day
schools, to help me with their prayers, as I should not be able to pay
them their weekly salary, next week, except the Lord were pleased to
send in means.--Thus situated, I received this morning, as the fruit
of many supplications, the sum of 90l., which was a great refreshment to
my spirit. It being left to me to use this money as needed, I put 50l.
of it to the funds for these objects, and 40l. to the Orphan-Fund. Thus
we are once more helped, and my heart is encouraged more and more to
trust in God.
April 29. One of the labourers gave 10l. for missionary purposes,
whereby at least one of the most needy among the brethren who labour in
the Word could be helped.--It has pleased God not to allow me, during
the last five months, to have the honour of helping the dear brethren,
who labour in the Word, to the same extent as the eighteen months
before. I confess that I am not worthy to be used any longer by the Lord
as a steward, to assist these His servants; still my heart craves after
it, and still prays that God would count me worthy for His dear Son's
sake to supply me with means for them, as I know they are in great need,
and many of them, through particular circumstances, in far greater need
than ever.
May 26, 1848. By the Lord's faithful love I have been enabled to meet
all the heavy expenses connected with these objects during the last two
years, amounting to nearly Two Thousand Six Hundred Pounds, and at the
same time owe no one anything, and have a balance of 5l. 19s. 7 ¼ d.
left in hand.
Supplies for the support of the Orphans, sent in answer to prayer, from
May 26, 1846, to May, 26, 1848.
May 26, 1846. Scarcely ever had we so much in hand, and certainly not
for the last eight years, when the accounts were closed, as at this
time. This evening I received 100l. It being left to me to apply this
sum as I felt led, and as it might be needed, I put half of it to the
Orphan Fund, and the other half to the fund for the other objects.
June 4. Today I received 50l. for the Orphans together with 100l. for
the other objects. This money came the instant after I had risen from my
knees, to ask the Lord for more means, as, on account of needing about
75l. for the printing of the Report, 23l. for oatmeal, 19l. for
fittings, 25l. for rent, and 26l. for the sisters who labour in the
Orphan-Houses (which sums are shortly to be paid), we shall soon again
need more.
Jan. 20, 1847. For the whole of this period since May 26, 1846,
therefore nearly eight months, when the accounts were closed, we have
had always an abundance of means, and for the greater part of the time
about 200l. in hand. The sum of One Thousand Sixty-Five Pounds has come
in for the Orphans in less than eight months, to which is to be added
the balance of 85l. 4s. 9 ¾ d. in hand when the accounts were closed.
Invariably I have thus been able to give to the Matrons of the four
Orphan-Houses the money in advance, which was required for the
necessities of one week. But now, after having paid away last evening
45l. 5s. for the house-keeping of a week in advance and for other
expenses, the money which remains in hand is needed for rent, and
oatmeal, which has been ordered from Scotland. This morning therefore I
gave myself particularly to prayer with regard to means for present use
for the Orphans. How blessed to have the living God to go to!
Particularly precious to know Him in these days of widespread distress!
Potatoes are too dear for food for the Orphans at this time. The rice,
which we have substituted instead of them, is twice as dear as usual;
the oatmeal more than twice as dear; and the bread one-half dearer than
usual. But the riches of God are as great as ever. He knows that our
expenses are great. He knows that a little will not do in these days,
when provisions are so dear, as there are about 150 persons to be
provided for, including teachers and apprentices. My soul is at peace.
Evening. About noon I received from a pious physician the following
note, with a check for 5l.
"My dear sir, I send you something towards buying bread for the Orphans.
The dearness of food must be felt by many; but the Lord in judgment is
nevertheless gracious He will sustain. I am your sincere friend and
well-wisher.
"* * * *"
From Maidenhead I received still further this evening 5s.
Jan. 21. Having had to pay out this morning 5l. 2s. 6d. for oatmeal for
present use, before the arrival of the larger quantity of a ton and a
half ordered from Scotland, there was again only 2s. 6d. left of the
money which had come in yesterday. About 1 o'clock this afternoon I
received 1l. through a Christian lady of Bristol from "a poor gardener."
There came in also-still further 1s. by sale of Reports and 1l. 2s. 6d.
from London.
Jan. 22. A brother from Devonshire came here on business, to obtain some
money which was owed to him. He did not obtain it; but God used him as
an instrument to bring me some money, for he gave me 10s. for the
Orphans. There came in still further by sale of trinkets and old silver
12l. 8s. 5d.
Jan. 23. By sale of books and some music 2l. 10s.
Jan. 24. Profits from the sale of ladies' bags 1l.--During this
period also two sisters kindly made some ladies' bags and baskets, and
gave the profits arising from the sale for the benefit of the Orphans.
On the 25th and 26th came in still further 2l. 4s. 1 ¾ d., so that,
when in the evening of the 26th at our usual weekly meeting for prayer
and conference I met with the brethren and sisters, who labour in the
various day schools and Orphan-Houses (then seventeen in number), I was
again able, by means of the 26l. 1s. 0 ¾ d., which the Lord had sent in
during the week, to give to the four matrons of the Orphan-Houses all
the needful supplies for the coming week. That which remained was put by
towards the rent of the houses. Our prayer now was, that the Lord would
be pleased again to send in fresh supplies, that we might have at the
next meeting all that might be needed for the week after.
Feb. 2, Tuesday. When we met this evening for prayer and conference, it
was found, that, whilst there had been nothing left in hand after our
meeting this day week (except money put by for oatmeal and rent), there
had come in altogether during the week 29l. 18s. 18 ½ d. The way in
which the Lord supplied us with those means was as follows: On the 26th
and 27th I received 10s., and 10s. as profits from the sale of ladies'
bags. On the 27th from London 3l., and also 5s. From C. C. 2l. From
Braunton a purse with 6s. From Barnstaple 1l. On the 28th anonymously
from London, from J. W. A., 5l. with these words: "From the giver of
all, through one of His stewards." On the 29th from Sodbury 2s. 6d. On
the 30th from Droitwich 5s. 6d. Also anonymously by post 5s. worth of
postages with these words: "A sip of milk and a crust of bread for a
poor Orphan." Also from C. C. 10s. On the 31st an old shilling and
sixpence, a small silver pencil case, and a pair of small ear-drops.--
Feb. 1. Before breakfast I took a direction in my usual morning's
walk, in which I had not been for many weeks, feeling drawn in that
direction, just as if God had an intention in leading me in that way.
Returning home I met a Christian gentleman whom formerly I used to meet
almost every morning, but whom I had not met for many weeks, because I
had not been walking in that direction. He stopped me and gave me 21.
for the Orphans. Then I knew why I bad been led thus; for there is not
yet enough in hand, to supply the matrons tomorrow evening with the
necessary means for housekeeping during another week.--There came in
still further today for needlework done by the Orphans 1l. 17s. 7d. Also
4s. 5d., the contents of an Orphan box.--On Feb. 2nd came in 2l. 5s.
11d., by sale of a Report 4d., and by sale of stockings 9s. 3d.--On
Jan. 30th a box came from London. It contained 4 brooches, a gold chain,
2 pairs of earrings, 2 gold watch hooks, a locket, a ring, 2 parts of
gold chains, a rich silk dress, a silk cloak, a glass bottle, some
music, 39 books, 18 knitted doilies, and a pair of knitting pins. Some
of these articles were today, Feb. 2, sold for 8l. 2s. 3d.--There
came in further by the sale of articles and Reports, 4s. 1d., by the
boxes in the Orphan-Houses and at my house 1l. 2s., and anonymously was
sent 5s. worth of postages. Here then, dear reader, you have a specimen
how the Lord does week after week supply us--I said 29l. 18s. 10 ½
d. had come in during the week. As, however, I was informed that the
arrival of the oatmeal from Scotland had been announced, and that it was
much dearer than I had expected, i.e. nearly three times as dear as
formerly, I found that there had not been sufficient money put by, and
took therefore in the first place what was yet needed for that. In
consequence of this I had only 10l. 14s. left for housekeeping, which I
divided among the matrons, being fully assured that the Lord would again
send in means, before that was spent. I went home in great peace, though
all the money I possessed for present use for the Orphans was only three
half-farthings.
Feb. 4. Yesterday nothing had come in. This morning, just before I was
going to give myself to prayer about the Orphans, a sister in the Lord
sent a sovereign, winch she had received, as she writes, "From a friend
who had met the Orphan Boys, and was particularly pleased with their
neat and orderly appearance." After having received this 1l., I prayed
for means for present use, though not confining my prayers to that.
About a quarter of an hour after I had risen from my knees, I received a
letter, with an order for 5l. The donor writes, that it is "the proceeds
of a strip of land, sold to the railway company." What various means
does the Lord employ to send us help, in answer to our prayers!--
About half an hour after having received this 5l., there was sent 10s.,
being the profits from the sale of ladies' bags. This evening was
received still further, by the sale of some trinkets, 1l. 18s. Thus I am
able to send all the remainder of the money, which is yet needed for
housekeeping up to Tuesday, Feb. 9th.
The Lord's holy name be praised for this fresh precious help!
Feb. 5. 1l. 4s. 10d. has come in today.
Feb. 7. Lord's day. Yesterday nothing had come in. In two days again
about 20l. will be needed for housekeeping, and there was only about the
tenth part in hand. But I was not in the least disturbed about this.
There are also new clothes to be found for the 32 Orphans in the Boys'
Orphan-House, which likewise will cost many pounds. That expense also, I
believed, God would help me to meet. Now observe the Lord's kindness!
On returning this morning from the meeting, I found the following letter
containing 50l.
"* * * *, Feb. 6, 1847.
"Beloved Brother,
"Having been led, during the past year, to see the unscripturalness of
life insurance, which I had been carrying on for some years previously,
I now enclose you the sum which I received from the office, on returning
to them my policy, viz. 22l. 8s., and the payment due about this time,
eleven guineas, as a thank-offering to the Lord for having, chiefly by
means of the work in which you are engaged in Bristol, opened my eyes in
some little measure to His will with regard to His pilgrim people here.
I ask your prayers on my behalf, dearest brother, amongst the many who
must be on your heart, for singleness of eye, to walk with God by faith,
that the whole body may be full of light,' and that I may not be
permitted to darken the little light I have, by serving any other
master.
I add also ten pounds, which you will kindly apply to the help of those
who are labouring in the Gospel abroad, or if more urgent, at home. Also
will you oblige me by accepting six pounds for your own use.
Of several Reports (which you sent me for distribution) I have received
payment for three, for which I enclose one shilling. The first items
please apply for the use of the Orphan-Houses, as you may see best."
&c.
Thus the Lord has given by one donation 34l. for the Orphans.--I have
also in this another answer, in receiving 10l. for missionary brethren,
for whom I had of late been especially seeking help from the Lord.--
This evening I received still further from C. C. 1l. 10s. 0 ½ d.
Feb. 9. There was received today by sale of articles 3l. 9s. 8d. When I
met again this evening with my fellow-labourers for prayer and
conference at one of the Orphan-Houses, it was found that 48l. 12s. 6 ½
d. had come in for present use for the Orphans during the past week,
which commenced with three half-farthings in my hands; so that there was
enough for all the expenses connected with the house-keeping of the
coming week, and the rest was put by for the rent, the apprentices, and
the boys' clothes; and as to the necessities of this day week, when
again fresh supplies will need to be given to the matrons, I am looking
to the Lord.
Feb. 10. This evening we hare received already a little towards the
expenses of the coming week. A brother gave me 10l., of which 5l. are
for the poor Irish and 5l. for the Orphans. Also 7s. 1d. from the
Orphan-box of a sister.
Feb. 11. Anonymously 2s. 6d. From Nottingham 1l. 15s.
Feb. 12. Anonymously, from a lady, 2l. to buy coals for the four
Orphan-houses.
Feb. 13. Anonymously from Islington a half-sovereign. By sale of Reports
8d.
Feb. 14. Through a sister 5s., from C. C. 8s. 3d., and anonymously 2s.
6d.
Feb. 15. From a Scotch sister 1l., by sale of stockings, Reports, and
articles 7l. 0s. 4d., from an Orphan- box 3s. O ½ d., from Nice 1l.,
anonymously 10s., from Cork 5s. 2d., and several shillings besides in
small donations, &c.--Thus there had come in again by this Tuesday
evening, Feb. 16th, 21l. 4s. 2d. during the past week. As, however, I
had to put by some money for the boys' clothes and rent, I could only
leave 12l. 4s. with the matrons, quite sufficient for a few days; and my
hope in God is, that He will send more, before this is gone.
Feb. 17. From the neighbourhood of Bridgewater 10s. 6d., and 1s. 1d.
came in besides. On the 18th came in 1l. more.
Feb. 19. This morning I gave myself again to prayer, importuning the
Lord that He would be pleased to send more means, as so little had come
in during the last two days. Almost immediately, after rising from my
knees, I received from Doncaster 3l. 3s. At the same tune I received
from Bromyard 5s., and 4s. from Aberystwith. About an hour later came
from a sister in the neighbourhood of Wotton-under-Edge 12s. 6d., a
lady's bag, and a knitted bread-basket cloth. Thus, with the 12l. 4s.
already given to the matrons, we are supplied till next Tuesday evening,
the 23rd of February.
Feb. 20. Today came in from the neighbourhood of Castle Cary 10s., by
sale of Reports 2l. 6d., and by sale of articles 10s. 6d. Also
anonymously a parcel from Tetbury, containing 2 shillings, a gold coin,
a silver coin, 2 copper coins, a brass coin, 4 gilt brooches, 2 silver
brooches, 3 gold brooches, 5 collars, a waistcoat, a pair of boots, 2
cloaks, and a shawl.
Feb. 21. From C. C. 14s., and 5l. with these words: "Your Heavenly
Father knoweth that ye have need of these things," and Philip iv. 19.
How true! My Heavenly Father knew that we had need of this, and
therefore put it into the heart of this donor to give this 5l. for in
two days we shall again require many pounds more than I had this
morning. Also how truly is again fulfilled in my experience at this time
Philip iv. 19.
Feb. 22. From Westmoreland a half sovereign and 1s. in postages.
Feb. 23. Anonymously a half sovereign. By sale of articles and Reports
3l. 16s. 0 ½ d., and through an Orphan-box in my house 2s. A lady who
met the Orphans today in the fields, gave to one of the girls 2s.
Evening. Tuesday. By what the Lord has been pleased to send in during
the past week, I have enough to supply the matrons with all which is
needed during the coming week and 14s. left.
Feb. 24. From a poor brother 6s.; the produce of an Orphan-box 1s. 7 ½
d. and a shilling bank token.--Feb. 26. From Bath 2s. 6d., and from
Droitwich 9s. 4d.
Feb. 27. Saturday evening. Only these few shillings have come in since
Tuesday evening, so that, having had to pay away several small sums
besides the housekeeping expenses, since Tuesday, nothing is in hand
towards supplying the matrons with housekeeping money next Tuesday.--
Received this evening from C. C. 5l., 6s. 6d. and anonymously from
Totness 1s. 6d. worth of postages.
Feb. 28. Today came in still further from the Hot-wells 3s. 6d., and
10l. as the profits of shares which the donor has in a certain concern.
How kind of the Lord to help us thus so seasonably in our poverty!
March 1. By work and knitting of the Orphans 1l. 4s. 8d. and from E. N.
10s.
March 2. By sale of articles 8l. 10s. 6d., and by sale of a Report 4d.
From H. C. as "A thank-offering to the Lord" 1l. From Manchester 1l.
From London 13s. From Staffordshire 1s.--Thus by this evening the
Lord has again sent in during the past week 29l. 8s. 11 ½ d., whereby I
had enough to advance the house-keeping expenses to the matrons of the
four Orphan-Houses for the coming week, and to meet some other
expenses.
March 3. Received 6s. 7d.--March 4. 1l. from the neighbourhood of
Stroud, as "a thank-offering to God for partial recovery from
sickness."--Also from Bath 5l.--A gentleman gave anonymously to the
governess of the Infant Orphans 2l.--I also received the following
letter today: "Dear Sir, When my dear brother John died, he had one
shilling and fourpence halfpenny owing to him which he intended for the
Orphans. As I received it today, I now send it to you. He said Jesus
will never forsake the Orphans.' M. W." The paper contained 1s. 7 ¾
d. and a quarter of a gilder. This legacy came from a dear boy who I
hear died in the faith.--March 5. From Clevedon 2s. 6d.--March 6.
The proceeds of an Orphan-box 7s. 1d.
March 7. Only 8l. 17s. 9 ¾ d. had come in since the 2nd, and the day
after tomorrow fresh supplies will need to be given to the matrons for
house-keeping, Under these circumstances I received this morning 150l.,
of which the donor intends 100l. for labourers in the Lord's vineyard
at home and abroad, and 50l. for other work in my hands. Of this 50l. I
took 25l. for the Orphans, and 25l. for the SchoolBibleand Tract
Fund. Thus we are helped afresh.--There came in besides from C. C.
6s., from a lady 1l., and anonymously 1s. 4d.
March 8. This morning I received still further from Falmouth a bank
order for 4l. from a brother "As a thank-offering to the Lord for
bringing him safely back to his native land;" 2l. of this amount is for
the Orphans, 1l. for Brother Craik, and 1l. for my own personal
necessities. Also 10s. from an Orphan-box, and 10s. from a sister.
March 6. By sale of articles and Reports 4l. 13s. 2d., from a poor
brother 6d., and through the boxes in my house
1l. 1s. 6d.--This evening, Tuesday, I find that since last
Tuesday evening again 44l. 1s. 6 ¾ d. has come in. Thus I have the
means to meet all the house-keeping expenses during the coming week, and
something will be left to put by towards the rent, the current expenses
for the apprentices, &c. How good is the Lord in helping us week after
week through the heavy expenses, especially in this season of deep
distress and dearness of provisions! To His praise I can say, we have
lacked nothing all this winter.
Whilst preparing these extracts from my journal for the press, I
remember to have heard the following remarks made with reference to the
time about which I am just now writing, namely the season of dearth
during the winter of 1846-7: "I wonder how it is now with the Orphans?
If Mr. Miller is now able to provide for them as he has, we will say
nothing." When I heard such remarks, I said nothing except this: "We
lack nothing:" or, "God helps us." Should this fall into the hands of
any who have had such thoughts, let them remember that it is the very
time for faith to work, when sight ceases. The greater the difficulties,
the easier for faith. As long as there remain certain natural prospects,
faith does not get on even as easily (if I may say so), as when all
natural prospects fail. It is true that during the time of the dearth
our expenses were considerably greater than usual it is also true that
many persons, who otherwise might have given, were unable to do so, or
had their surplus directed into other channels, such as Ireland, &c.;
but the gold and silver are the Lord's. To Him we made our prayer. In
Him we put our trust. And He did not forsake us.' For we went as
easily through that winter as through any winter since the work had been
in existence. Nor could it be otherwise; for God had at this very time
an especial opportunity of showing the blessedness of trusting in Him.
Seek, dear reader, more and more to put your trust in Him for
everything, and you will even concerning this life find it most precious
so to do.
March 10. I was able, last evening, to meet most comfortably all the
expenses for the coming week; yet we had then nothing left, as I put by
the rest of the money, that we might not get into debt with regard to
the rent, the expenses of the apprentices, &c. When now there was again
nothing left for future house-keeping expenses, a Christian lady at a
considerable distance informed me by this mornings post, that she has
paid into the hands of Messrs. Stuckey and Co. of Bristol, my bankers,
the sum of 100l. for my use, for the benefit of the Orphans. By the same
post I have received also 10s. from Droitwich. The Lord's holy name be
praised for this seasonable help! I have now all the rent for next
quarter day, am able to purchase two pieces of calico which were needed,
a fresh supply of rice and soap, and to meet other heavy expenses in the
way of certain alterations and improvements to be made in the four
houses, about which I had repeatedly asked the Lord.
May 1. From March 10th up to this day came in the sum of 132l. 10s. 5 ¾
d. Before the means in hand were expended, the Lord always gave a fresh
supply. This evening, Saturday May 1st, I gave myself especially to
prayer for means, as we were now again very poor, there being no means
to meet the house-keeping expenses on next Tuesday evening, when fresh
supplies are to be given to the matrons. About half an hour, after I had
risen from my knees, I received from a Friend to the Institution a
letter, containing 10l. Of this sum 8s. 5d. is from twenty poor Orphans
under his care, who, having read one of my Reports, desired him to send
to the Orphans in Bristol their little donations, each having
contributed from 2d. to 8d., 5s. 6d. is from an aged Christian, 10s.
from a servant of the donor, and 8l. 16s. 1d. from himself, to makeup
the 10l.
May 2. There came in still further from C. C. 1l., from a Christian lady
10s., from a Christian servant 5s., and anonymously 10s.
May 4. Today was received for articles and Reports 1l. 16s. 1d., and
through the boxes at the Orphan-Houses 16s. 8 ½ d. Thus I was able this
evening, by what had come in since Saturday evening, May 1, to meet the
house-keeping expenses of the coming week.
May 11. Another week is gone by. This evening also I have been able to
meet all the expenses connected with house-keeping during the coming
week, through what has come in since May 4th, but at the same time there
is nothing left. Hitherto the children have lacked nothing. Never were
provisions nearly so dear since the commencement of the work, as they
are now. The bread is almost twice as much as eighteen months ago, the
oatmeal nearly three times as much as formerly, the rice more than
double the usual price, and no potatoes can be used, on account of their
exceeding high price. But though I have now returned from the
Orphan-Houses, without any means being left in my hands for further
supplies, yet my heart is in peace, in great peace, being sure that the
Lord will help.
May 12. The Lord is beginning to help already. This evening I have
received 4l. from Scarborough.
May 13. This morning I received 6s. from the neighbourhood of Bideford.
This afternoon was given to me 50l., being left to my disposal, as it
might be most needed. Being so exceedingly poor as to means for the
Orphans, and having heavy expenses to meet, I put this 50l. to the
Orphan-Fund for present use. Thus I am able to order oatmeal from
Scotland, which is nearly out, put by money for the rent, pay for
medical attendance for the children, &c. How good is the Lord, in
helping us so seasonably in this time of great dearness of provisions!
There came in still further today 5s.--On May 14th from O. 1s.,
"through walking a short distance instead of riding."--On May 16th
from C. C. 13s. 1d. From O. 3s. being "the first fruits of increase of
wages." From the Isle of Wight 17s. 9d., from Hayle 2l., from Plymouth
15s.--On May 17th from a Christian lady 5s., from E. A. B. 13s. 6d.,
and from C. B. 13s. 10 ½ d.--On May 18th by sale of articles and
Reports 2l. 6s. 4d. Though thus since last Tuesday evening, May 11th,
about 63l. has come in, yet as there have been heavy extra expenses to
meet in the course of the week, besides the usual amount required for
housekeeping for the coming week, and as I need to put by about 20l. for
oatmeal which has been ordered from Scotland, we are again without
anything in hand.
May 19. This morning the Lord has again begun to send in a little. I
received from Bath 1l., and from a Colonel in the Presidency of Madras
2l.--May 20th. From Worcester 1l., and from a sick little boy
6d.--May 23rd. From C. C. 5l. 2s. 4d. Also a stranger called at
the infant Orphan-House, bought books to the amount of 8s. 1d., and
gave a sovereign for them.
May 24. By sale of articles came in 3l. 10s. 2d.
May 25. From Shirehampton 2s.
The boxes in the Orphan-Houses contained 1l. 10s 1d. Also an individual
from Taunton gave 10s. Lastly there came in by sale of Reports 6d. and
from M. W. 6d.--Thus the Lord has again sent in since last Tuesday
evening about 161l. This, however, not being nearly enough to meet the
house-keeping expenses of the coming week, I could only give a part of
what was needed, hoping in God to give me more, before that which is in
the hands of the matrons shall have been spent.
May 26. A lady gave 10s.--May 27th. By sale of books, given for the
purpose, came in 1l. 11s. 6d., and through an Orphan-box 8s. 6d. This
2l. 10s. received yesterday and today I sent off to the Orphan-Houses.
May 28. By sale of Reports 1s., the proceeds of an Orphan-box at Street
2s., from Guernsey 1l.May 29th. The 1l. 3s., which came in yesterday,
was enough for today, Saturday; for only the addition of 1l. was
required to help us till Monday morning, and therefore the Lord had sent
3s. more than was needed. Evening. There has come in this day still
further 1l. 9s. 7d. by sale of some little trinkets, almost all of which
had been given some time since, and which now our poverty led me to pack
up and send out for sale. This money likewise was divided among the
matrons.
May 30. Lord's day morning. I have just now received, in this our
great need, when there was not sufficient in hand to meet the
necessities of tomorrow, 6l. 6s. from a Christian gentleman of title at
Zurich in Switzerland, a distance of about one thousand miles. What a
most seasonable help! Thus I am able to send all the remainder of the
supplies, which are needed till Tuesday evening.
In these days of straitness, the question would naturally arise, If,
when you have only to care for 130 Orphans, you are so poor, what will
you do when there are 300, for whom you are just on the point of
building a house? And further, Is it not an indication not to increase
the work, seeing you are now so poor with only about one-third of the
number of Orphans which you purpose to receive into the New
Orphan-House?--I am not tried, however, with such thoughts; for I
know that 1, Only for the trial of my faith, as heretofore the Lord
allows me now again to be poor. Never at any time have the expenses been
so great for the work, as from May 26, 1846, to May 26, 1847; but also
never has so much come in in the same space of time during any other
period of this work. 2, It is for the profit of the church at large,
that we have now again to pass through these days of poverty. 3, I know
that it is as easy for the Lord to supply us with all the means that the
work will require when once the New Orphan-House is opened, as it is for
Him to give us what we need now, though the expenses in all likelihood
will then be Two Thousand Five Hundred Pounds a year more than they are
at present.
Evening: Received 10s. more anonymously.
June 1. Tuesday, 8l. 9s. 0 ½ d. more has come in since May 30th, of
which, however, only 4l. 9s. 7 ½ d. remained for house-keeping
expenses, during the coming week. This was all I could leave with the
matrons, hoping in God to send in more before this is gone.
June 2. This morning I received the following anonymous note from
Teignmouth, enclosing two halfsovereigns.
"My dear Brother,
I send you with much pleasure the enclosed trifle, to be disposed of as
you judge to be best. Also this precious text, "Only believe," once
spoken by the lips of our blessed glorified Head, now above.