- solve aright, and to keep my resolutions, for Jesus
Christ's sake. Amen.
Hæc limina vitæ. Stat.
I resolve. To study the Scriptures; I hope, in the original languages. Six hundred and forty verses every Sunday, will nearly comprise the Scriptures in a year. To read good books; to study theology. To treasure in my mind passages for recollection. To rise early; not later than six, if I can; I hope sooner, but as soon as I can. To keep a journal, both of employment and of expenses. To keep accounts. To take care of my health, by such means as I have designed. To set down at night some plan for the morrow. Last year I prayed on my birth-day, by accommodating the morning Collect for grace, putting year for day. This I did this day.
Sept. 18, 1764.
O God, heavenly Father, who desirest not the death of a sinner, grant that I may turn from my wickedness and live. Enable me to shake off all impediments of lawful action, and so to order my life, that increase of days may produce increase of grace, of tranquillity of thought, and vigour in duty. Grant that my resolves may be effectual to a holy life, and a happy death, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. To-morrow I purpose to regulate my room. 1765. Easter Day.
April 7, about 3 in the morning.
I purpose again to partake of the blessed Sacrament;
yet when I consider how vainly I have hitherto resolved
at this annual commemoration of my Saviour's death,
to regulate my life by his laws, I am almost afraid to
