The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 08 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 08 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
15. When our inclinations towards worldly things are in some measure
subdued, we must proceed conscientiously to perform those duties which
religion ♦requires. If we cannot get our inward dispositions presently
changed, let us study at least to regulate our outward deportment: if
our hearts be not yet inflamed with divine love, let us however ♠own
our allegiance to that infinite Majesty, by attending his service, and
listening to his word; by speaking reverently of his name; and praising
his goodness, and exhorting others to serve and obey him. If we want
that charity, and those bowels of compassion which we ought to have
towards our neighbours, yet must we not omit any occasion of doing them
good. If our hearts be haughty and proud, we must nevertheless study a
modest and humble deportment. These external performances are of little
value in themselves, yet may they help us forward to better things. It
is always good to be doing what we can, for then God is wont to assist
our feeble endeavours. Nor need we fear the imputation of hypocrisy,
though our actions thus somewhat out-run our affections, seeing they
still proceed from a sense of our duty, and our design is not to appear
better than we are, but that we may really become so.
♦ “require” replaced with “requires” per Errata
♠ “owe” replaced with “own” per Errata
_We must endeavour to form internal acts
of devotion, charity, &c._
16. Moreover, let us be often lifting up our hearts to God; and if
we do not say that we love him above all things, let us at least
acknowledge that it is our duty, and would be our happiness so to do.
Let us lament the dishonour done him by sinful men, and applaud the
praises that are given him by that glorious company above. Let us yield
ourselves up to him a thousand times, to be governed by his laws, and
disposed of at his pleasure: and though our stubborn heart start back,
yet let us tell him we are convinced that his will is always just and
good; and therefore desire him to do with us whatsoever he pleaseth,
whether we will or not.
Thus should we exercise ourselves unto godliness: and when we are
employing the powers that we have, the Spirit of God is wont to strike
in, and elevate these acts of our soul beyond the pitch of nature, and
give them a divine impression.
_Consideration a great instrument of religion._
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account