_To Mrs. E―――― C――――._
_Savannah, June 25, 1740._ _My dear Sister_,
YOUR letter afforded me much inward pleasure. Surely it bespeaks the writer not to be far from the kingdom of GOD. You was then waiting for our LORD’s salvation: ere now, I trust, CHRIST 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 they that mourn most, for they shall be the most comforted: not that we are violently to keep ourselves in such a state; but when GOD’s hand lies heavy upon us, we are patiently to tarry the LORD’s leisure, till he reveals himself to our souls. I was a mourner a long while; but, glory be to GOD! I have for some years been almost continually comforted; at least kept from doubting of my interest in JESUS CHRIST. I can with an humble boldness cry out, “My LORD and my GOD!” He daily manifests himself to my soul, and causes me to feel my dependance on his free grace and sovereign love. This is the kingdom of GOD within us. O, my dear sister, what would I give, were all the world partakers of this unspeakable gift! I long, I burn with an ardent zeal after the salvation of my dear brethren, who are dead in trespasses and sins. Poor souls! Why am I taken, and they left? O the sovereign, free, unmerited, distinguishing love of my and your JESUS! My dear sister, let us love him, let us obey him; let us suffer for him with a chearful heart! His love will sweeten every cup, though never so bitter. Let us pledge him willingly, and continue faithful even unto death. A scene of sufferings lies before us. Who knows but we may wade to our Saviour through a sea of blood? I expect (O pray that I may be strengthened if called to it) to die for his great name’s sake. ’Twill be sweet to wear a martyr’s crown. Dear Madam, adieu. I remember GOD’s goodness to us at _Broad-Oaks_. I pray for you and yours. I trust your daughters keep close to JESUS. Salute them kindly in my name. Read my Journal, and give hearty thanks for
Your unworthy brother and servant in CHRIST JESUS,