The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 11 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 11 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
25. Sometimes he received before-hand only a present impulse of
something to be done, without any particular discovery. As when he was
much pressed in spirit to go to _Pontois_, without understanding any
reason for it; yet, believing it to be the call of God, he immediately
undertook the journey; where unexpectedly he met with a nobleman of
great quality, who was come from a province far distant, on purpose to
be instructed by M. _de Renty_, how to serve God, which he had, till
then, little known, and less practised.
26. But though this great servant of God had an excellent faculty of
assisting all, yet was he more eminently assistant to some particular
persons, for the healing their souls, and leading them on apace in
the narrow way of perfection. I shall mention one only, the Countess
of _Chatres_, who being deep in the affections of the world, as are
most young ladies of her quality, it pleased God to inspire her with a
desire to ask advice of M. _de Renty_; this he gave her with so happy
success, that he himself was astonished at it. In less than a year,
she was so perfectly disengaged from all those little conveniences and
accommodations, which our ladies perswade themselves are absolutely
necessary, that one offering her something of this kind, which she was
formerly fond of, she answered, “I thank God, I have quitted this, and
many more things, for the love of God, and yet find no want at all.”
27. God gave him light to discern her proper way, how to renounce
herself, and advance in the paths of solid virtue, and to support her
in great inward afflictions. And she, on her part, resigned up herself
to his guidance, and forced herself to put his advice in execution:
a thing very requisite in those who would make use of the conduct of
others to good purpose.
*28. Though this happy intercourse, accompanied with such signal
blessings, had contracted a strict and perfect friendship between
them, yet he was very wary and reserved in his conversation with
her; visiting her only when the work of God required it, and neither
speaking nor staying with her any longer than was precisely necessary.
This she thought a little harsh, and complained of it to a friend, whom
she knew to have some power with him, saying, “M. _de Renty_ extremely
mortifies me with his civilities and reservedness. I have great need
to see him often, and yet cannot obtain it. Nay, when we are together,
he will not sit down, except when I am sick, or not able to stand any
longer; and always with his hat in his hand. I beg you to tell him,
what out of respect I dare not, what inquietude I suffer, to see his
behaviour such toward me, who ought to be continually under his feet.”
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