Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/203

 I cannot see how they can, with assurance, talk of their enjoying solid fellowship with the Father, and his dear Son. I shall not be surprized if many, who seemingly began in the spirit, do end in the flesh, and turn persecutors of the doctrines and disciples of. How can they possibly stand, who never felt themselves condemned criminals? who were never truly burthened with a sense not only of their actual, but original sin, especially that damning sin of unbelief? who were never brought to see and heartily confess, that after they had done all, might, notwithstanding, deny them mercy; and that it is owing merely to his sovereign love in our, that they can have any hopes of being delivered from the wrath to come? It is for preaching in this manner that I like Mess. Ts. They wound deep before they heal; they know that there is no promise made but to him that believeth; and therefore they are careful not to comfort over much those that are convicted. I fear I have been too incautious in this respect, and have often given comfort too soon. The pardon me for what is past, and teach me more rightly to divide the word of truth for the future. Dearest J, pardon this freedom; I am constrained to write in this manner. I thank you most heartily for your historical letter. Fail not writing to me often. Dearest J—, help me by your prayers: for 's sake help me. Our is yet with us. I hear different accounts of things; but I pray for all, and suspend my judgment till you see Your affectionate brother and servant,  G. W.     LETTER CCI. To Mrs. E C.

My dear Sister,     Savannah, June 25, 1740.

YOUR letter afforded me much inward pleasure. Surely it bespeaks the writer not to be far from the kingdom of. You was then waiting for our 's salvation: ere now, I trust, hath manifested his glory, filled you with his blessed spirit, and thereby sealed you to the day of redemption. 'Tis good to be long in an humbled state: it is the best preparation for solid, lasting comfort. Blessed are