Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/83

 how loving the has dealt with us; he has given us all things richly to enjoy, and comforted us on every side. Indeed sometimes he has been pleased to withdraw from me, and to permit satan to send me a thorn in the flesh.—But that was only to shew me my vileness, and to prepare me for further manifestations of his goodness to my soul. Our voyage though long has not been tedious or burdensome. My soul wants retirement.—I dread coming out into the world again. I am confident, dear Madam, that you will pray for me, that I may be kept unspotted from it. Oh what a blessed Master do we serve! His rod as well as staff comforts the soul. His corrections are all loving, and are only intended to make us truly great. Though you seemed to doubt, yet I hope to see you once more before you go hence. I cannot say I expect liberty long, if I speak boldly the truth as I ought to speak.—Indeed there is no being a true christian, and yet holding with the world, so much as some may imagine. calls us to simplicity. I have often thought, dear Madam, that you did not see through the world enough. Numbers are accounted christians, who have only a name to live. I pray to open all our eyes, that we may see every thing clearly. A time of persecution will show who are Israelites indeed, and who outside professors.—I hope, Madam, that, when tried, you will come forth as gold purified seven times in the fire. I only fear for, and suspect myself.—The my righteousness will uphold me. Dear Madam, only knows with what gratitude I desire to subscribe myself

Your most obliged friend and servant, G. W.

LETTER LXXV.

Dear Mrs.       Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739.

WHEN last abroad, I could not write to you for want of knowing your name. Blessed be we have since been better acquainted, and I now know your name and place of abode. May the, whom I desire to serve, richly reward you for receiving me into your house. You were one of my most constant hearers; may you be my joy and crown of rejoicing in the day of the. I trust ere now,