The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 14 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 14 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
I feel my need of patience. I am closely and constantly exercised,
but his grace is sufficient even for me. He generally teaches me by
applying his word to my heart, so that I have cause to esteem it more
than fine gold. I was greatly oppressed some nights ago, and found
immediate deliverance from these words, _As birds flying, so will
the Lord of hosts defend_ Jerusalem. _Defending also he will deliver,
and passing over he will preserve it._ I find much union with you,
and believe you bear my burdens, and abide in prayer for me. I cannot
forget you, and our friend in heaven remembers you for good.
I can no longer refrain from saying, Be strong in the grace that is in
Christ Jesus. Let none beguile you of your simplicity, or the reward
that attends it. I believe your light is shining out of obscurity, and
will shine unto the perfect day. You are coming unto the light that
your deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. In his
light you behold yourself of _the circumcision, who worship God in the
Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh_.
*_They have great peace who love his law, and nothing shall offend them;
he keeps us night and day._ I pleaded this promise last night, and
made it my own by believing. He did keep my imagination, while I slept,
subject to himself. Since I returned into the country, I have been
blest with peace, which temptation of various kinds did not ruffle. My
determination to know nothing but Jesus crucified, is much strengthened.
This moment I can give up all for him, and do all things through him
strengthening me. I have a testimony that I please him, and count his
dear reproach greater treasure than the wealth or praise of men.
Be faithful in all things; this is your privilege; live up to it this
moment. You know the way, walk therein, and pray always for
_Your affectionate sister, And obliged friend_.
* * * * *
REJOICE in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. For he is become your
everlasting light, and the days of your mourning are ended. I believe
your sun shall no more go down, but you shall dwell on high. Your place
of defence is in the munition of rocks; bread of life is given you;
your waters shall not fail. Your eyes see the King in his beauty,
and he will cause you to know him who was from the beginning. I drink
with you into one spirit. Help me to bless God for the consolation;
it increases by being mutual. My soul seems lost in wonder, love and
praise, and is melted into thankful tears. Every sensation of gratitude
in earth or heaven is bought with thy blood, O precious Jesus! the
power to feel my obligations to him, proceedeth from above, and when
we reach the top-stone, we shall still shout “Grace, grace unto it.”
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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