Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/204

This page needs to be proofread.

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.

LETTER CCII. To the Rev. Mr. S——, in London.


Rev. and dear Sir, Savannah, June 26, 1740.

AND is one of the priests also obedient to the word? Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath translated you from darkness to light; from the power of Satan to the service of the ever-living God. Now know I, that our glorious Emmanuel has not commanded