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Healing grace, the healing of the body and soul according to Wesley

Odilon Massolar Chaves

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Article 184 of the Penal Code and Law 96710 of February 19, 1998.

Books published in the Wesleyan Digital Library: 794

Books published by the author: 835

Address: https://bibliotecawesleyana.blogspot.com

Cover:John Wesley - Facebook José Viladecans

Odilon Massolar Chaves is a retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate in Theology and History from the Methodist University of São Paulo.

Son of Rev. Adherico Ribeiro Chaves and Roza Massolar Chaves.

He is married to RoseMary.

He has two daughters: Liliana and Luciana.

His thesis dealt with the Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as a paradigm for our days.

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Table of Contents

· Introduction

· Tried for many years in the furnace of affliction

· God's power is manifested in weakness

· God's Generous Treatment

· Can't keep warm on your own

· Don't be sharp

· Walk at least an hour every day

· Stop arguing

· Tell as little as possible about the past

· Be resolute about when to go to bed and wake up in the morning

· Preach only twice a week and ride to the Hot Wells every day

· He must not preach to death

· You can't have physical health without daily outdoor exercise

· Nothing is as good for you as exercise and change of air

· Enemies of the joy of faith

· Maintain the feeling of poverty and powerlessness

· A soul full of love

· Evil reasoning

· As long as you're in the body, you'll fall short of what you would be

· Still, the Lord has already done great things for you

· Never omit private duties, no matter how hasty you are

· Danger of thinking little of God's grace given to him

· Sensitive and easily moved mind

· Let go of all evil shame

· Enjoying a clear deliverance from consanguineous sin

· Useless words or thoughts arise from bad tempers

· All very close to 'self-contradiction'

· Nature yields to healing grace

· Forget the things that are overdue

· Learning to think

· The closer you get to God, the more sensible you will be

· Beware lest any bitter spirit infuse you with bitterness

· The air exchange will probably do you more good than a hundred medicines

· Speak with love and discord will fade

· To preserve peace with our contentious brethren but by war

· You must make an hour to ride· ·

· Your part is to leave everything in His hands, who orders everything well

· Those who feel less, certainly suffer less

· True simplicity is that grace by which the soul is freed from all useless reflections upon itself

· Violent Jealousy Among Young People Is Something Entirely New Among Methodists

· The Difference Between Weight and Darkness of the Soul

· We become all things to all men, so as not to hurt our own souls

· 'Pray for one another, and be healed' of all that they have confessed to one another'

· Sea breezes can be useful to you

· You also don't have to relapse into your disorder, if you take the precautions that common sense requires

· If one has gone out of their way to enlarge, rather than heal, this little breach

· Coal poultice will heal you

· What cannot be healed must be endured

· You sink under the sin of omission

· If you do, it will quickly darken your soul

· Healing grace

· Healing soul and body together

· Healing both body and soul

· Often postpones bodily health until soul and body heal together

· Almighty power can heal both your soul and your body

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Introduction

"Healing Grace, the Healing of the Body and Soul According to Wesley" is a 75-page book based on Wesley's letters.

"For John Wesley, healing grace is the expression of God's unconditional love that works holistically. He did not see salvation only as the forgiveness of sins to secure heaven, but as the complete restoration of the human being (body and soul) to the divine image and likeness.

1. The Healing of the Soul: Grace and Sanctification

Wesley taught that the healing of the soul begins with Prevenient Grace (the grace that acts before we even realize it), awakening the desire for God.

· Justification: The forgiveness of sins and the healing of guilt, bringing inner peace and reconciliation.

· Sanctification (Christian Perfection): The ongoing process by the Holy Spirit to heal the corruptions of sin, purifying the heart and restoring the soul to original spiritual health."[1]

A current study showing Wesley's pioneering spirit in the area of healing. For him, God wants to heal both soul and body.

The Author

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Tried for many years in the furnace of affliction

But He has always been with you in the fire so that you can be purified, not consumed

For Mrs. Rose

LEEDS, July 29, 1789.

MY DEAR SISTER--It has pleased God to try you for many years in the furnace of affliction. But He has always been with you in the fire so that you can be purified, not consumed. Therefore, you have good reason to trust Him. Do not reason, but believe! Hold on to Him like a child, and your eyes will see His complete salvation! -- I am,

Your affectionate brother.

For Mrs. Eliz. Rose, in Sheffield.

God's power is manifested in weakness

I am glad to find that the power of God is manifest in your weakness, and enables you, in the hour of difficulty, to possess your soul with patience. I have never seen until now that sincere obedience to one's parents went unrewarded, even in the present world

To Mary Smith

NEAR LONDON, NOVEMBER 20, 1789.

Your loving letter, my dear Molly, gave me much satisfaction. I am glad to find that the power of God is manifest in your weakness, and enables you, in the hour of difficulty, to possess your soul with patience. I have never seen until now that sincere obedience to parents went unrewarded, even in the present world. [See October 16 letter about John Stamp.] And I accept the remarkable length of my own life and the unusual health I enjoyed as a reward for saving my father from prison and comforting my mother in her later years. Go forth, my dear maiden, you and my precious Janey, to be the support and joy of their age; chiefly by their eminent growth in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has given you both some of His loving-kindness, which is better than life itself. And I am convinced that each of you can say,

Wealth, honor, pleasure, and what else

This short and lasting life can provide,

Try as you will, my soul repels,

To Christ alone determined to live.

To His loving care, I entrust you with the whole family; and I am, my dear Molly,

With your affection.

For Miss Helena. Smith, at Mr. Smith's house, Cormmerchant, Newcastle-on-Tyne. [2]

God's Generous Treatment

It seems that God has treated you very generously; and, without a doubt, He is able and willing to supply all your needs. Gradual sanctification can increase from the time you were justified; But complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous—at least, I've never known an exception

For Sarah Rutter

LONDON, December 5, 1789.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- I am glad that the little Society of St. Neots continues in peace and love. [See letters of July 29, 1789, and July 27, 1790.] I would gladly visit you and all the Societies within a hundred miles of London once a year; but now I am obliged to give it up. They multiply too fast. So now there's several of them, which I can only see once every two years. I am very pleased with the account you give about yourself. It seems that God has treated you very generously; and, without a doubt, He is able and willing to supply all your needs. Gradual sanctification can increase from the time you were justified; But complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous—at least, I've never known an exception. Peace be with your spirits! -- I am, my dear Sally,

With great affection.[3]

Can't keep warm on your own

You need to find one, if not more, with whom you can converse freely about the things of God. You can make it a matter of prayer; And sooner or later your prayer will be heard

To Harriet Lewis

DUBLIN, April 2, 1789.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- Considering how changeable human nature is, I would have thought you would have forgotten me before. So I was pleasantly surprised when I had the pleasure of seeing him in Dudley. [See letter of March 29, 1788.] You seemed to be exactly the same as the first time I conversed with you at Mr. Moon's, [John Moon, the third preacher in the Birmingham Circuit; he died in 1801.] to be as desirous now as you were then not almost, but thoroughly Christian. But if this is your determination, you must remember that you cannot warm yourself; you need to find one, if not more, with whom you can converse freely about the things of God. You can make it a matter of prayer; And sooner or later your prayer will be heard, even though some of those you talked to are groin chills. But God is able to give you others that will not be unstable like water. It is a great blessing that He has sustained your gongs on the path and allowed you to still move forward to the goal. May He establish, strengthen, and calm you! So pray

With affection. [4]

Don't be sharp

I hope there is no reason for this accusation. Beware that your own spirit is not sharp

To Mrs. Jane Freeman, in

the New Room, in Dublin.

For Alexander Surer

KILLASHANDRA, May 21, 1789.

MY DEAR BROTHER, -- It has been confirmed to me that you have given one of the first occasions of disagreement by 'refusing to read the Prayers and speak of them with contempt.' Talking to so many Presbyterians in Scotland can easily lead you into this kind of prejudice.

I have by my side a very warm letter from one Edward Thomas, who seems ready to swallow anything he says against Lawrence Kane. [Kane was an assistant at Plymouth. Thomas recognized his faults and was restored to the Company. See the letters of June 9 and August 29.] I have not heard from Nehemiah Janes. You are guilty of not preaching as often as you can; I hope there is no reason for this accusation. [See letter of July 23, 1788.] Beware that your own spirit is not sharp! -- I am

Your affectionate brother. [5]

Walk at least an hour every day

You should walk at least an hour every day, five or ten minutes at a time; -- when everything is fine, outdoors; When it rains, indoors

To John Bredin LONDONDERRY, June 1, 1789.

MY DEAR BROTHER, -- I believe that neither air nor the other means a straw. The issue of complaint is within, not without; And if anything could remove it, it would be to take an ounce of lime water every morning for sixteen days and ten drops of vitriolo elixir in a glass of plain water every afternoon. In the meantime, you should walk at least an hour every day, five or ten minutes at a time; -- when everything is fine, outdoors; When it rains, indoors. [See letters of November 16, 1785 (to him) and October 17, 1790.]

It will be good if you can gather enough collection to build a preaching house in Jersey. [See letter of November 5, 1788.] And why not, if you face it with faith, they are not all things possible for those who believe. But if you do build, be careful to have enough windows and two wide doors; and don't build a scarecrow house.

Certainly, whenever you leave Jersey and Guernsey, you will do well to return to Ireland. But take care! If you give in to discontent, it will find you anywhere. -- I am

Your affectionate friend and brother. [6]

Stop arguing

And allow me to give you one more piece of advice (you've already valued my advice) — stop arguing. Move your thoughts as far away as possible from all controversial points. You have only one point to deal with—Imanuel, God with us; to secure that one point—Christ in us, the hope of glory!

For Arthur Keene

DUBLIN, July 1, 1789.

If we do not meet until we reach a better world, you will allow me to say: I love you very much and we will continue until our earthly path ends. And allow me to give you one more piece of advice (you've already valued my advice) — stop arguing. Move your thoughts as far away as possible from all controversial points. You have only one point to deal with—Imanuel, God with us; to secure that one point—Christ in us, the hope of glory! What is beyond this in comparison to this, let it involve your whole soul. But in a short time, everything else will be gone like a shadow! It's [likely] that you'll probably spend a few more days on Earth when I'm no longer seen. But those days, by comparison, disappear like a dream when you wake up. The wisdom from above, meanwhile, be the part of you and yours! So pray

His brother always affectionate. [7]

Tell as little as possible about the past

I advise my dear Becky and you to tell as little as possible about the past. Then it will pass away like a dream; as you both forget the things that are behind you and press forward toward the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus

For Ms. Ingram

DUBLIN, July 5, 1789.

MY DEAR MADAM, -- After the fair and sincere report that Miss Helena Sánchez. Ingram [See the June 28 letter to her.] and the lady gave about the transaction, there was no fear that I would be greatly harmed by anything that had happened. I advise my dear Becky and you to tell as little as possible about the past. Then it will pass away like a dream; while you both forget the things that are behind and advance towards the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus. -- I am, dear lady,

With all the affection. [8]

Be resolute about when to go to bed and wake up in the morning

I hope you will be resolute about the time to go to bed and wake up in the morning; May I have at least one vicar who will join me here in setting a standard for the flock. And I pray that you will fight against slowness, not just in reading the Prayers, but in all things great and small

Mr. Garforth, in

Skipton-in-Craven, Yorkshire.

For Peard Dickinson

NEAR STOCKPORT, APRIL 2, 1790.

MY DEAR BROTHER, -- The change in a new house must be made in haste and inconvenience. [Dickinson lived near the City Road Chapel. See letters of April 29, 1788 and April 28, 1790 (to Sarah Wesley).] But conveniences, on the other hand, will be more than useful if you take care to make the most of them. I hope you will be resolute about the time to go to bed and wake up in the morning; May I have at least one vicar who will join me here in setting a standard for the flock. And I pray that you will fight against slowness, not only in reading the Prayers, but in all things great and small. Ne res omnes tardi gelideque ministrat. [Apparently his adaptation of Horace's Ars Poética, verse 171: quod res oranes tirnide gelideque rninistrat.]

Be quick! Be quick! Stir well! In everything, hurry, although without haste. I'm glad you serve the kids. Your work will not be in vain. My health increases more than it decreases. I think summer will kill me or heal me. It's okay. Peace be with you and yours! -- I am

Your affectionate friend and brother. [9]

Preach only twice a week and ride to the Hot Wells every day

Now, you're going to save his life. Look around; consider if there is any circuit where he can rest a lot and work little; or he and you will spend September in my lodgings at Kingswood, on condition that he preaches only twice a week and rides to the Hot Wells every day.

To Mrs. Adam Clarke

DUMFRIES, June 1790.

MY DEAR SISTER, The great question is, what can be done by Adam Clarke [See the next letter and that of April 14.]~ Now, you're going to save his life. Look around; consider if there is any circuit where he can rest a lot and work little; or he and you will spend September in my lodgings at Kingswood, on condition that he preaches only twice a week and rides to the Hot Wells every day. I think he must do it, or die; And I don't want him (nor you) to run away from us in a hurry. You need not object that this will be accompanied by some cost; If it is, we can make it easier. I tend to think that this will be the best way. In the meantime, let him do as much as he can, and nothing more. I'm likely to stay with you a little longer, as my strength doesn't diminish much. Yesterday I traveled nearly eighty miles and preached at night without pain. The Lord does what He pleases. Peace be with all your spirits! -- I am, my dear sister,

With all the affection.

Note: Adam Clarke lived until 1832. [10]

He must not preach to death

But where can we put poor Adam Clarke? He must not preach to death; And which circuit is he equal to, where he can rest as much as work? The best place I can think of right now is Leeds

To Henry Moore

DUMFRIES, June 1, 1790.

DEAR HENRY, -- Then I am again on the borders of England. My vision is pretty much as it was before; but I doubt if I will not recover my strength until I use that noble remedy [See letter of April 11] preaching in the morning. But where can we put poor Adam Clarke? He must not preach to death; And which circuit is he equal to, where he can rest as much as work? The best place I can think of right now is Leeds. [Clarke went to Dublin. See July 31 letter to John King.]

The last words of the Prince of Orange are very present in my mind: 'Lord, have mercy on the people!' [William the Silent, murdered in 1584.]

I never saw so much probability of doing good in Scotland as there is now, if all our preachers here were really Methodists.

My dear Henry, love me as best you can. -- I am, dear Henry,

Your affectionate friend and brother. [11]

You can't have physical health without daily outdoor exercise

I cannot advise you, in the meantime, to lock yourself up at home; It's not good for your body or your mind. You can't have physical health without daily outdoor exercise; and you have no reason to expect the spirit of a healthy mind unless you use the means which God has ordained.

To Alexander Knox

NEAR LONDON, JANUARY 28, 1780.

DEAR ALLECK, - It will certainly be worth taking a test of this mineral water; it is highly probable that God will make it a means of diminishing, if not removing it, his bodily disturbance. I cannot question that this is largely scorpotic; as an almost constant symptom of scurvy is a great depression of the spirits.... I cannot advise you, in the meantime, to lock yourself up at home; It's not good for your body or your mind. You can't have physical health without daily outdoor exercise; and you have no reason to expect the spirit of a healthy mind unless you use the means which God has ordained. You know well that faith comes listening; Therefore, I advise you not to miss any opportunity to listen and trust God with the event. You probably won't be in a more uncomfortable state than you already are. And what is the greater evil of the two, even assuming the worst? Surely having two attacks is less bad than missing fifty precious opportunities. O break this fear, which is only a trap of the devil. I commend you and yours to Him who is ready to save you in soul and body; and I am, dear Alleck,

With affection.

For William Tunney[12]

Nothing is as good for you as exercise and change of air

You must not fail to mount [See letter of February 12, 1769.] if you have tolerable health. Nothing is as good for you as exercise and a change of air.

To Ann Bolton

LEWISHAM, January 25, 1770.

Nancy, Nancy! I almost said, I wish I could be mad at you; But that wouldn't be easy. I was wondering why you never wrote. I doubt that your love has cooled down. May it not take six weeks for me to hear from you again. You think I can scold you if you provoke me.

You surprise me about books. I have already spoken to Mr. Franks twice; And twice he told me that he had sent them. I doubt he sent among the other books without directing them specifically to you. I will ensure that this situation is rectified.

You must not fail to mount [See letter of February 12, 1769.] if you have tolerable health. Nothing is as good for you as exercise and a change of air. That's why, as well as other accounts, I wanted you to come to London. I don't know if the 'offend' objection needs to scare you out of it. I wish you had a week to spare before I left town. [She had already come to London once to meet him. See letter of April 7, 1768.] If I am called to America [See letters of December 30, 1769 and See February 17, 1770.] (although I haven't figured anything out yet), it may be a long time before we meet again.

In every temptation, there will be a way to escape that you can endure. Don't stay another month before you write to, my dear Nancy,

Your affectionate brother.

Now I have one or two quarters to spare. [13]

Enemies of the joy of faith

Nervous disorders are, of all others, as observed, enemies of the joy of faith. But the essence of it, this trust in a loving and forgiving God, they can neither destroy nor harm

To Lady Maxwell

LONDON, February 17, 1770.

MY DEAREST MALADY,-- To us, it may seem that uninterrupted health would be a greater help than pain or sickness. But here we are certainly mistaken; We are not so good judges in our own cause. You can really say, 'Health I will have if health is better.' But in this and in all things you can trust the One who loves you. In fact, nervous disorders are, of all others, as observed, enemies of the joy of faith. But the essence of it, this trust in a loving and forgiving God, they can neither destroy nor harm. No, just as they keep you dead to everyone down there, they can lead you there, and they can increase your sincerity after that pure love that turns the earth into paradise.

It will be with a lot of effort and patience that you will keep someone firm in high life, in the simple and old way. I would like you to talk to her as often as possible. So I trust that God will use you to keep alive the fire He has kindled. I have high hopes that the chapel will be useful; But it will not be easy to get a converted clergyman. A master will be easier to find; although many here are frightened by the name of Scotland. A dedicated teacher can take care of twenty or perhaps thirty children. If someone I have seen recently is willing to come, I believe he will respond to your plan.

I have some ideas of going to America [See the letters of January 25 and February 21 (to George Whitefield).]; But the path is still unclear. I wait until Providence speaks more clearly on one side or the other. In April, I hope to reach Inverness and take Edinburgh on my way back to England. But let's live today! What a blessing you may receive now!

Now let your heart flow with love,

And all his life may His glory be shown!

--I am, my dear lady, Your ever-affectionate servant. [14]

Maintain the feeling of poverty and powerlessness

You should expect to be taken to the two extremes by turns—self-confidence and a lot of shyness. But it is certain that the first is the more dangerous of the two; and you need all the power of God to save yourself from it. And He will save you to the end, as long as you still maintain the feeling of poverty and powerlessness

To Mary Bishop

LONDON, June 20, 1770.

Wesley's pastoral letters in 1770

DEAR MISS BISHOP,-- At the moment you are exactly in your place; and I trust that no temptation, internal or external, will ever lead you to abandon the work to which God has called you. You should expect to be taken to the two extremes by turns—self-confidence and a lot of shyness. But it is certain that the first is the more dangerous of the two; and you need all the power of God to save yourself from it. And He will save you to the extreme, as long as you still maintain the feeling of poverty and powerlessness.

It is a good prayer,

Show me, how my soul can bear,

The depth of consanguineous sin!

And only so that He can take care of you; for He remembers that you are but dust. But you must not expect to be so and so convinced to be renewed in love. No: pray now for the whole mind that was in Christ; and you will have more and more conviction as He wills. Mr. Spencer [See letters of September 13, 1769, and October 12, 1771.] and Glynne are of excellent spirit, notwithstanding their opinion. I hardly know my colleagues. Love is all we want; Let that fill our hearts, and that's enough. Peace be with your spirit,-- I am

Your affectionate brother. [15]

A soul full of love

For Miss Helena. March

DAWGREEN, July 6, 1770.

When things are seen from afar, one tends to imagine that no degree of sorrow could be found in a heart that rejoices forever; that no right temperament could be lacking, much less any degree of wrong temperament, subsisting, in a soul full of love. And yet I doubt whether there is any soul clothed with flesh and blood that has every right temper, and in which there is not a degree of a bad temper, supposing it to be from ill-calculated zeal, or more or less affection for any one than that person really deserves. When we say, 'This is a natural and necessary consequence of the union of the soul with a corruptible body,' the statement is by no means clear until we add, 'because of the weakness of understanding which results from this union'; Admitting this, the case is clear. There is such a close connection between right judgment and right temperaments, as well as right practice, that the latter cannot easily subsist without the former. Some wrong temper, at least in a small measure, almost necessarily arises from wrong judgments: I apprehend when many say, 'Sin must remain while the body remaineth,' that is what they mean, though they cannot understand it.

You say, 'My silence usually stems from my opinions and thoughts about myself as a Christian.' Bishop Fenelon [Archbishop of Cambria, 1695-1715.] says: 'Simplicity is that grace which frees the soul from all unnecessary reflections on itself.' Here's a kind of simplicity you want! When I speak or write to you, I have you in front of my eyes, but generally speaking, I don't think about myself. I do not think whether I am wise or foolish, wise or ignorant; But I see you aiming for glory and immortality, and say exactly what I hope can direct your paths on the path and keep it from getting tired or fading in your mind. Our Lord will ordain all right for Sister Thornton. [See letters of August 12, 1769 and April 14, 1771 to Miss Helena S. March.] What can hurt those who trust him? ^{^[16]}

Evil reasoning

But you are often weary of a bad disease—evil reasoning; which harms both your holiness and your happiness. You want true Christian simplicity, which is in fact the highest wisdom. Nothing is clearer, according to the simple biblical account, than sanctification, pure love reigning in the heart and life.

For Ms. Bennis

ASHBY, July 27, 1770.

DEAR SISTER,-- Will you find in yourself anything but inadequacy? Otherwise, his salvation would be of works, not of grace. But you are often weary of a bad disease—evil reasoning; which harms both his holiness and his happiness. You want true Christian simplicity, which is in fact the highest wisdom. Nothing is clearer, according to the simple biblical account, than sanctification, pure love reigning in the heart and life. And nothing is clearer than the need for this to feel happiness here and in the hereafter. Check all the reasoning on these basic principles, otherwise you will darken your soul a lot; And keep denying yourself, and taking up your cross, until you

Sink to the height of perfection,

The depth of humble love.

If the preachers of the Waterford Circuit had punctually followed the plan I had laid down, the horse would not have been a problem; But the misfortune is that every idiot is wiser than I am. However, at your desire, I will send a second preacher into the circuit after the Conference; But preachers need to change regularly. It would never be well to let a man sit for six months with a small Society; Soon he would preach himself and them as dead as stones. Your alteration of the circuit to accommodate the poor and dead Clonmel I greatly approve, and I hope that Sister L-- [See letter of June 13] will be a blessing to the few present. I rejoice at the happy launch of Sisters P and B--. [Mrs. Bennis told him that they both died triumphant.] Isn't it worth living for?

Still approach the source by simple faith, and take as much as you want; But don't be lazy in

The vineyard of your Lord.--My dear sister,

With affection. [17]

As long as you're in the body, you'll fall short of what you would be

No doubt as long as you are in the body you will fall short of what you would be, and you will see more and more of your innumerable defects and the imperfection of your best actions and temperaments. Still, all this does not have to hinder your joy forever and in all that gives thanks

For Mrs. Marston

LONDON, August 11, 1770.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I thought it had been a long time since I heard from you, and I wanted to know how your soul prospered. No doubt as long as you are in the body you will fall short of what you would be, and you will see more and more of your innumerable defects and the imperfection of your best actions and temperaments. Still, all this need not hinder your joy forever and in all that gives thanks. Weight you may feel at times; But you never have to go into darkness. Beware of supposing that darkness, i.e. unbelief, is better than the light of faith. To suppose that this is one of the grave errors of popery. 'He that followeth me,' saith our Lord, 'shall not walk in darkness.' The fact that you are tempted in a thousand ways will not hurt you. In all these things you will be more than a conqueror. I hope that the selected society [For the origin of the selected society, see the letter to Vincent Perronet in December 1748, section VIII.1-4.] will meet constantly and that you will speak freely among yourselves. Continue humbly and steadfastly, denying yourselves and taking up your cross daily. He walks in the light as He is in the light, in humility, in meekness, in resignation. Then He will surely sanctify you throughout your body, in spirit, soul, and body. Hearing from you is always a pleasure, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

I'm going to Bristol. [18]

Still, the Lord has already done great things for you

Though you do not have that joy in the Holy Spirit to which you are called, because your faith is weak and only like a mustard seed. Still, the Lord has already done great things for you: He has preserved you even in the perilous season

To Ann Bolton

BRISTOL, August 12, 1770.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- 'He that feareth God,' says the Apostle, 'and works righteousness,' though in a low degree, is accepted by Him; especially when such trusts not in his own righteousness, but in the atoning blood. I cannot doubt it at all, but this is your case; though you do not have that joy in the Holy Spirit to which you are called, because your faith is weak and only like a mustard seed. Still, the Lord has already done great things for you: He has preserved you even in the perilous season, even

With the latest pride of life and the blossoming of years,

of ten thousand snares to which a young woman of agreeable form and behaviour and not of ill-temper would naturally be exposed, and to which her own heart would certainly have yielded if it had not been preserved by His gracious power. He gave her resignation in pain and sickness. He has made you more than a conqueror, even a conqueror of it. And have you not abundant reason to praise Him, to put all your trust in Him, and to hold fast all His great and precious promises?

The spirit of your last letter involves me a lot. I love seriousness and sweetness mixed together. Go, my dear Nancy, down the same path, and you will be nearer and nearer to your affectionate brother. [19]

Never omit private duties, no matter how hasty you are

What I especially advise you never to omit private duties, however hasty you may be, and however monotonous and dry your soul may be: yet you will not be without blessing. And so you will receive power against this temptation, which to your tender spirit may be the most dangerous of all.

To Ann Bolton

LONDON, November 16, 1770.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Seeing even the inscription of a letter from you always gives me pleasure. I'm glad you're still waiting for the kingdom of God: though I'm still more in the state of a servant than a child. But it is blessed to be even a servant of God! You will never have reason to be ashamed of His service. What I especially advise you never to omit private duties, however hasty you may be, and however monotonous and dry your soul may be: yet you will not be without blessing. And so you will receive power against this temptation, which to your tender spirit may be the most dangerous of all.

On Sunday I shall preach a funeral sermon to that blessed Mr. Whitefield in the Tabernacle and Chapel of Tottenham Court. [See next letter.]

If it is a help or comfort to you, please write often to, my dear Nancy,

Your affectionate brother. [20]

Danger of thinking little of God's grace given to him

It is true that there is a danger, and this continually, of overthinking oneself. But there is another danger to which you are more immediately exposed: thinking little of the grace of God given you.

To Ann Bolton

SEVENOAKS, December 15, 1770.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- It is true that there is a danger, and this continually, of thinking too much of yourself. But there is another danger to which you are more immediately exposed: thinking little of the grace of God given you. Instantly resist any reasoning about it, even if you're in a state of acceptance. As sure as you are in the body, hold this jeium, by His free and almighty grace; and then

Expect His fullness to receive AND grace to respond to grace.

It may be helpful for you to prayerfully read again the sermon on The Repentance of Believers, which will show you exactly where you are now, and The Scriptural Way to Salvation. [See Works, v. 156-70, vi. 43-54.] In a sense, faith is all you want. If you can believe, aren't all things possible for those who believe? What don't you get today? At this time? Right now?.[21]

Sensitive and easily moved mind

Because your mind is sensitive and easily moved, you can easily fall into excessive affection; If you do, it will quickly darken your soul. But see and pray, and you will not fall into temptation

To Rebecca Yeoman

LONDON, February 5, 1772.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- From what I understand, you are now in the state of wild nature. I advise you to read this sermon in the fourth volume, [See Works, vi. 77-91] and examine yourself through it. If you discover the cause of the heaviness or the darkness, you're more than halfway to healing.

If Jenny Johnson [See letter of August 4, 1770.] is fully aware of her fault, you may trust her; If not, she shouldn't be in the band. Because your mind is sensitive and easily moved, you can easily fall into excessive affection; If you do, it will quickly darken your soul. But see and pray, and you will not fall into temptation.

God willing to continue my life and strength, I hope to pass through Scotland in April and May, to reach Newcastle about the beginning of June [He arrived May 25.]; but who knows if before that we won't be able to make a longer journey. Our wisdom is to live to this day.--I am, dear Becky,

Your affectionate brother. [22]

Let go of all evil shame

Lay aside all malignant shame, all modesty, falsely so called. Going from house to house; deal faithfully with all of them; warn everyone; To exhort everyone. God will give you everywhere a word to speak, and His blessing along with it

To Mary Stokes

LONDON, February 11, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I am glad that you have had the opportunity to spend time with such wonderful company. On the day I leave Bristol (Monday 9 March) I hope to be in Stroud myself. [See Diary, v. 448.] They are not sent there for nothing, but to do as much as to receive good: and this not for a single family, nor for the four they know; no, but you have a message from God (you and Ally Eden [Miss S. Ally Eden, daughter of Henry Eden, of Broadmarston. She wrote to Wesley about Christian perfection on August 27. John Pawson calls her 'one of the kindest families I have ever known.' See the Diary, v. 251; Veterans of Wesley, iv. 42; and letter of December 12, 1773.] also) for all the women of the Society. Lay aside all malignant shame, all modesty, falsely so called. Going from house to house; deal faithfully with all of them; warn everyone; To exhort everyone. God will give you everywhere a word to speak, and His blessing along with it. Be you here a follower of Nancy Bolton, as she is of Christ.

In doing and doing the will of our Lord,

We are still preparing to receive our reward.

I have a lot of hope for Sally James. [See letters of March 17, 1771 and May 1, 1772 to Miss Helena S. Stokes.] In the company that normally surrounds you, it is better to use reserve. And this tends to form a habit, which is not easy to overcome, even with those she loves well; but I trust that she will overcome this and all enemies. Perhaps we will soon rejoice in it. It's good that you can be emptied, that you can be filled. But how come you've never given me an hour of pain since I met you? Do you always intend to move forward, without stopping or regressing? The good Lord allows you to do this, and all who are with you! So realize the joy of

With affection. [23]

Enjoying a clear deliverance from consanguineous sin

God gave him to enjoy a clear deliverance from blood sin. I hope you will find no return from that death, though you will certainly encounter innumerable temptations. But beware of discarding that confidence which brings great reward in reward. You never have to feel pride, anger, or any other evil temper again

To Penelope Newman

NEAR BRISTOL, MARCH 6, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- You are called to do all you can for God. How little is all this! Therefore, by all means, find this other class, and it will be a blessing to your own soul.

When I last spoke to you, God gave you to enjoy a clear deliverance from blood sin. I hope you will find no return from that death, though you will certainly encounter innumerable temptations. But beware of discarding that confidence which brings great reward in reward. You never have to feel pride, anger, or any other evil temper again. The Lord loves you, and His grace is sufficient for you. Ask, and receive, that your joy may be full.--I am, my dear sister,

With affection. [24]

Note: (Or congenital/innate sin) refers to original sin, the corruption of human nature inherited from Adam, and the root of selfishness present in humans (Google AI Mode Overview).

Useless words or thoughts arise from bad tempers

To Philothea Briggs

LIVERPOOL, March 23, 1772.

If useless words or thoughts arise from bad tempers, they are properly bad, otherwise they are not; but yet they are contrary to the Adamic law: but not to the law of love; therefore, there is no condemnation for them, but they are a cause of humiliation before God. Just like these (apparently) incredulous thoughts; though they are not yours, and you can boldly say, 'Go, go, unclean spirit; you will answer for these, and not I.'[25]

All very close to 'self-contradiction'

That beautiful woman Betsy met with some of those so-called 'mystical writers' who abound among Roman Catholics. These perpetually talk of 'self-emptying, self-annihilation, self-annihilation' and the like: all very close to 'self-contradiction', as a good man used to say.

To Ann Bolton

CONGLETON, March 25, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- The more I reflect on what you said about this emptiness, the more I am inclined to think that that beautiful woman Betsy Johnson [Elizabeth Johnson. See letter of December 15, 1763.] He met with some of those so-called 'mystical writers' who abound among Roman Catholics. These perpetually talk of 'self-emptying, self-annihilation, self-annihilation' and the like: all very close to 'self-contradiction', as a good man used to say. In fact, we admit that one cannot be very careful to hide one's pride from man. And I am often ready to tremble, lest you flutter to it again, and lest I myself lead you into it while telling you (in my own way) only the thought that arises in my heart.

My Nancy, doesn't that hurt you? Be as awkward with me as I am with you. But though we can never be too humble, though we can never humble ourselves too much before the God of love; Still, I cannot approve of recommending humanity for the use of these expressions. My first objection to them is that they are not scriptural. Now, you and I are prejudiced against the Bible. We think that biblical language is like Goliath's sword, that "there is none like it." But they are also dangerous: they almost naturally lead us to deny God's gifts. No, and to make a certain merit of it; imagine that we honor Him by underestimating what He did. May it not be so with you. Acknowledge all His work as You bestow all His glory upon Him.

With affection. [26]

Nature yields to healing grace

His feelings tended to be too impetuous, and sometimes unequal as well; but nature yields to healing grace, which I believe has made you both calmer and firmer

To Philothea Briggs

WHITEHAVEN, April 12, 1772.

His feelings tended to be too impetuous, and sometimes unequal as well; But nature yields to healing grace, which I believe has made you both calmer and firmer. [See letter of September 13, 1771.] And what will that not do if you persevere in all that is lovely, sacred, and happy! The One who loves you gives you a taste of what He has prepared for you. Let patience make its work perfect, and you will be perfect and whole, lacking nothing. Make sure you get the best out of life! Time is short! [27]

Forget the things that are overdue

Comparatively, forget about things that are overdue. Reach forward! Do one thing: move on to the prize of your high calling.

To Philothea Briggs

LEITH, NEAR EDINBURGH, MAY 13, 1772.

MY DEAR PHILLY,-- To set the state of perfection too high is the surest way to take it out of the world. The substance of this test, I believe I have seen; and I judge that it is not compatible with humanity, that is to say with the state of the human soul, as long as it is united to a corruptible body. Don't be intrigued by these sympathetic questions anymore; but, to readjust your judgment, give another deliberate reading to the Distant Thoughts or the Clear Explanation of Christian Perfection. He, who long ago gave you a taste of His forgiving love, then gave you a taste of His pure love. Where you have attained steadfastness; Never discard it out of voluntary humility. But make sure you don't rest there. Comparatively, forget about things that are overdue. Reach forward! Do one thing: move on to the prize of your high calling. I hope to be in Newcastle on the 25th of the next day, and to stay twenty days there or near it.

I remember Nicholas Sewell well well and have seen many of his poetic compositions. He was raised as a Quaker, but when I met him he was completely crazy, completely crazy. I would like my brother to publish his verses; But he gets further and further behind.

You and I must be content to do the good we can, and nothing more. But I love you for wanting to do more; only with resignation.--I am, my dear Philadelphia,

With affection.

For Miss Helena. Phil. Briggs, at Mr. Barker's house, in Sevenoaks, Kent. [28]

Learning to think

We learn to think by reading and meditating on what we read, talking to sensible people and by everything that improves the heart. As purity of heart (as Mr. Norris observes) both cleanses the medium by which we see and strengthens the faculty, mechanical rules are of little use unless one has opportunity to learn the elements of logic; But it is a miserable task to learn them without an instructor

For Miss Helena. March

OTLEY, July 1, 1772.

It's time wasted to consider whether you write well or badly; You speak from the heart, and that is enough. Unbelief is either total the absence of faith; or partial, the lack of more faith. In this latter sense, every believer can complain of unbelief unless he is filled with faith and the Holy Spirit. So it's all noon. Still, we can pray, 'Lord, increase our faith.'

Total renunciation implies total love. Give Him your will, and you give Him your heart.

You need not be careful in this matter, whether it applies directly to one Person or the other, since He and the Father are one. Pray exactly as you are guided, without reasoning, in all simplicity. Be a child hanging on to the one who loves you. [29]

For Hannah Ball

BRADFORD, July 7. 1772.

The closer you get to God, the more sensible you will be

It is easy to see the difference between these two things, sinfulness and impotence. In the first you don't need to feel it anymore; The second you will feel as long as you live. And in fact, the closer you get to God, the more sensible you will be.

For Ms. Savage

GRIMSBY, July 22, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- It is easy to see the difference between these two things, sinfulness and impotence. In the first you don't need to feel it anymore; The second you will feel as long as you live. And in fact, the closer you get to God, the more sensible you will be. But be careful with that, it doesn't put you in the slightest doubt about what God has done for your soul. And be careful, it doesn't make you any less daring to talk about it in all simplicity. Do you still feel a complete release from pride, anger, and all desire that is not centered on God? Do you trust Him with both soul and body? Have you learned to lay all your care upon Him? Are you always happy in it? In what sense do you pray without ceasing? Wait for all the promises--I am, My dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

In about a fortnight's time I shall be at Mr. Glynne's house, in Shrewsbury [Edward Glynne's mother was Lord Hereford's cousin, and wrote to him in defence of the Methodists. See the Diary, iv. 491; Wesley's Veterans, i. 219-22; W.H.S. IV. 217 - 20.] [30]

Beware lest any bitter spirit infuse you with bitterness

You can read them to learn how to repay good for evil, to bless those who curse you. O be careful that no bitter spirit may infuse you with bitterness. I keep all the love that God has given you! And never rest until your whole heart is love!

For Mrs.Turner

Os DEVIZES, 18 SEPTEMBER 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- You stopped me. I planned to write to you if you hadn't written to me. I take cognizance of your spirit. 'Love without dissimulation is easy to discern.' I am all the more pleased to find this in you, because you know many whose love is not abundant, who are not so kindly affectionate with those who do not exactly subscribe to their opinions. They do not seem to be sufficient to consider that the kingdom of God is not opinions (however righteous), but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. I love you for having a more excellent spirit. My soul draws closer to you. Should we destroy the work of God by opinion, or abandon love, the very symbol of our profession? No, for this reason men will know that we belong to the Lover of Souls, to the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.

Many years ago, when my son (as he called himself for several years) Mr. Whitefield declared war on me, several asked, and repeatedly, 'When are you going to answer Mr. Whitefield's book?' I replied: 'Never. You heard the cry, Whitefield against Wesley; but you will never hear, Wesley against Whitefield.' Since then, I have been a follower of peace; and when Mr. Hill attacked me so violently in the famous Paris Conversation, (...). I was like a man who did not hear, and in whose mouth there was no rebuke. When he attacked me again in his Five Letters. I haven't answered yet; No, I chose not to read it, for fear of being tempted to return evil for evil. When he attacked me for the third time, more vehemently than ever in his Review (...). Still, I decided not to answer anything. But it wasn't long before one of my friends warned me that I could no longer be silent and innocent; it is my duty as good and good as a public person not to let the good that is in me be spoken of by evil, but, according to the guidance of the Apostle, to give a reason for the hope that is in me, only with meekness and fear. I was convinced. I dared no longer be silent, and so I answered the questions he asked me, and removed those objections which would otherwise have driven away the lame ones. I wish I had done it with the inimitable sweetness and delicacy that Mr. Fletcher did. His letters (as vilely as they are misrepresented) breathe the very spirit of the gospel. You can read them to learn how to repay good for evil, to bless those who curse you. O be careful that no bitter spirit may infuse you with bitterness. I keep all the love that God has given you! And never rest until your whole heart is love! Peace be upon your spirits--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

To Mrs. Turner, grocer, in Trowbridge. [31]

The air exchange will probably do you more good than a hundred medicines

You don't have time to waste unless you want to throw your life away, which you don't have the authority to do. You shouldn't have gotten blisters, if I was close to you. I consider his case mainly rheumatic. The air exchange will probably do you more good than a hundred medicines.

To Ann Bolton

BRISTOL, September 20, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- You have no time to waste unless you want to throw your life away, which you have no authority to do. You shouldn't have gotten blisters [See July 1 letter to her.] if I had been around you. I consider his case mainly rheumatic. The air exchange will probably do you more good than a hundred medicines. Come, come. Leave the day after you receive this. You can come to me first at the Horse Fair; and if you need to, I can show you even Sally James. [See letters of May 1, 1772, and November 29, 1774 (to Sarah James).] I don't need to tell you how much you will be welcomed, my dear Nancy,

With affection. [32]

Speak with love and discord will fade

Talk to as many people as possible; to go among them, to their homes; Speak with love, and discord will disappear. It is hardly possible to comfort or strengthen others without some comfort returning to your own chest.

For Ms. Bennis

COLCHESTER, November 3, 1772.

DEAR SISTER,-- Your time was well spent at Waterford. Many, I doubt not, remember this with gratitude. But why this lack of discipline in Limerick? Whenever this is abandoned, everything becomes a mess: see that it is restored immediately.

I should have been glad if you had persuaded Captain Webb to visit me in Limerick: he is a man of fire, and the power of God constantly accompanies his word.

Poor Sister Harrison! I didn't expect her to die in triumph. But we must leave it to its own Master. It seems to me that Mrs. Dawson is gaining ground. And I [love] her two lovely children. At every opportunity, you would do well to talk a little with the three of them.

It is highly likely that I will visit Ireland in the spring, although I am almost being an incapacitated soldier. I am forbidden to walk and I am obliged to travel mainly in a carriage. [See the August 31 letter to her.]

Whom do you think fit to succeed the present preachers at Limerick and Waterford [Wrigley was at Waterford; John 2 Edward Slater was in Limerick. Jonathan Hern of Cork succeeded him. James Glassbrook, Francis Murray, and Michael M'Donald followed.]

You need to awaken the gift of God that is in you. The light will emerge. Why not now? The Lord is not near—I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. [33]

To preserve peace with our contentious brethren but by war

I see more and more clearly that there is no other way to preserve peace with our contentious brethren than by war—or rather, by 'taking the war to Italy,' to their own quarters. We do nothing, we spend our strength in vain, while acting only on the defensive.

To Mary Bishop

COLCHESTER, November 4, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I see more and more clearly that there is no other way to preserve peace with our contentious brethren than by war—or rather, by 'taking the war to Italy,' to your own quarters. We do nothing, we spend our strength in vain, while acting only on the defensive. While they will never be afraid of us; for they have nothing to lose. But when with gentleness and yet with vigour and firmness we show all the horror of their opinions, while calmly and yet in all sincerity we paint all the absurdity and blasphemy of Reprobation, immobilizing them, whether they like it or not, up to that point, they will soon be weary of war. They themselves will desire peace, and will regard it as a favor when it is granted them. But we must build with one hand while fighting with the other. And that is the great work: not only to bring souls to believe in Christ, but to build them up in our holiest faith. How gravely they are mistaken (as well as almost the whole body of modern Calvinists) who imagine that as soon as children are born they no longer need to care for them! We don't think so. The main care then begins. And if we see this truly, we may well cry out, even the wisest men on earth, 'Who is sufficient for these things.' In a thousand circumstances, general rules are of little value and our natural light quickly runs out. That he may tell us nothing but the anointing of the Holy One; And it will really teach us, of all things. The same thing you need for your children, is to teach them the way they should be. And here you have a constant need for patience; for you will often see little fruit from all your labor. But leave it to Him. The success is his. The work is yours alone. Your point is this: "Work your work at the right time, and in His time He will give you a full reward."

With affection.

For Miss Helena. Bishop, near the Bath of the Cross, in Bath. [34]

You must make an hour to ride

Too much attention to business (with natural consequences of that), too little outdoor exercise, you can expect it to always bring your headache back. Therefore, you should never interrupt your driving. It is not even worldly prudence; for a crisis of illness would take more time than a hundred short walks. If, therefore, you would keep fit for business, to dispense with all other considerations, on all the fair days which this season of the year affords, you must arrange an hour for riding.

To Ann Bolton

LONDON, November 28, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,--I also have some matters; But I don't know what business could get in the way of my writing for you. But whether you think of me or not, I will hardly be mad at you. Too much attention to business (with natural consequences of that), too little outdoor exercise, you can expect it to always bring your headache back. Therefore, you should never interrupt your driving. It is not even worldly prudence; for a crisis of illness would take more time than a hundred short walks. If, therefore, you would keep fit for business, to dispense with all other considerations, on all the fair days which this season of the year affords, you must arrange an hour for riding.

Sammy Wells will always be useful as he can take advice. But as it is with Billy Brammah [Samuel Wells and William Brammah were preachers in Oxfordshire. See the letter of February 18, 1773.] Does he follow the advice I gave about yelling and the use of alcoholic beverages? If not, it will age before its time, it will diminish and shorten its own usefulness. Say a word whenever you find an opportunity. He is upright in heart. He enjoys God's grace very much, but with a touch of enthusiasm.

No, Nancy, I planned to have written only one page. But I don't know how, when I talk to you, even if only by letter, I can hardly part with it. But, in fact, I have not yet touched on what I mainly intended. I see clearly that you are exposed to two dangers of totally opposite natures. The only one is (the one which now attacks some of our friends in the West) to refine religion, [See letters of October 25th and December 5th.] aiming at something more sublime than the simple, simple love which produces humility, meekness, and resignation. The other is a diminishing zeal for doing good. I'm a little jealous of you on that. Last year, I warned you a lot about this. You have followed this advice not to let any occasion pass unnoticed by [See your brother Samuel's poem 'On the Death of Mr. William Morgan of Christ Church,' in the Diary, i. 104; and the letter of January 15, 1773 to Miss Helena Sánchez." Bolton.]

If you tend a little towards the extreme (which I don't know), be careful not to gradually slide to the other extreme! The good Lord will guide you at every moment! Do you find constant power over the old enemy, a disproportionate affection? I ask that you do not stay another month before you write to, my dear Nancy,

Your affectionate brother.

For Miss Helena. Bolton, in Witney, Oxfordshire. [35]

Your part is to leave everything in His hands, who orders everything well

You will have more or less failure, as you want. Your part is to leave everything in the hands of Him, who orders everything well. You might as well have said, 'Lord, I have no connection with these. They must answer for themselves.

To Philothea Briggs

LEWISHAM, December 3, 1772.

MY DEAR PHILLY,-- You yourself are a living witness of this religion. But it is only to a low degree. I grant that you are just beginning to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. It is an indescribable blessing that He shows you this so clearly and strongly. And no doubt He can take you as seriously as Miss Helen S. March or Nancy Bolton; And yet this is consistent with much joy. You will have more or less reproach, as He wills. Your part is to leave everything in the hands of Him, who orders everything well. You might as well have said, 'Lord, I have no connection with these. They must answer for themselves.' Read the Brief History of Methodism, [See Works, viii. 347-51; Green's Bibliography, nº 229.] And you see that clearly. Go ahead, and you will all be Christians! I hope you will be more and more of a comfort to, my dear Philadelphia,

With affection.[36]

Those who feel less, certainly suffer less

Those who feel less, certainly suffer less; but the more we suffer, the more we can improve; The more obedience, the more holiness, we can learn from the things we suffer. So, overall, I don't know if the insensitive have an advantage over us.

To Mary Bishop

GALWAY, May 27. 1771.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Perhaps we will see a new fulfillment of Solomon's words: 'He that reproves a man afterward will find more favor than he that flatters with his tongue. But, in any case, I have done my duty; I couldn't have given my own soul away otherwise. And no offense would have been caused if pride had not stifled both religion and generosity. [See letter of March 8.] But the letter is now outdated; is no longer mentioned: there is a more plausible occasion found—namely, those eight terrible propositions which conclude the minutes of our Conference. [The Minutes of 1770, which gave Fletcher the opportunity to write his Checks to Antinomianism.] At the request of some who were sadly frightened, I reviewed this information again and again; I have considered them from all points of view; and truly, the more I consider them, the more I like them, the more fully am I convinced, not only that they are true, pleasing both to the Scriptures and to sound experience, but that they contain truths of the utmost importance, and such as must be continually instilled by those who would be pure from the blood of all men.

Joseph Benson is a good man and a good preacher. But he is by no means clear in his judgment. The imagination which he borrowed from another good man, 'that he is not a believer who has sin remaining in him,' is not only a mistake, but a very dangerous one, of which I have seen fatal effects. Here we separated from the Germans almost thirty years ago; and the falsehood and absurdity of it are shown in the Second Diary and in my sermon on this subject. [The Lord our Righteousness. See Works, v. 234-46.]

Your experience reminds me of these phrases:

So many tender joys and sorrows

May it have power over my trembling soul!

The simple life with growing passions has emerged,

The advantage or the burden of an hour. [Gambold, in Poetical Works of J. and C. Wesley, i. 8.]

If you wrote more than once in three months, you wouldn't be wrong. Few care for you as tenderly as my dear Miss S. Bishop,

Your affectionate brother.

PS.--You just need to go directly to Dr. C-- For Miss C. Bishop, near Lady Huntingdon Chapel, Bath. [37]

True simplicity is that grace by which the soul is freed from all useless reflections upon itself

To Mary Bishop

LONDON, January 12, 1773.

DEAR MISS BISHOP — I agree with you in your judgment of poor Nancy Dodd. But I would give her (as we say) a chance at life. Captain Webb was not sent to you as to the unawakened world. And maybe he can do Rowland Hill good by being much more popular than he is.

The Fourth Control did very well. This confirmed many in fact. This calmed many who were undecided and convinced not a few who simply fell into this strong illusion. But you shouldn't think that anything will convince a warm Calvinist—no, not an angel descending from heaven.

In two or three hours I could teach you so much grammar that you could advance without difficulty. 'True simplicity,' says Fenelon, 'is that grace by which the soul is freed from all useless reflections upon itself.' I add, 'and over all other people and things.' This is an indescribable blessing; and it is the mere gift of God, not naturally attached either to greatness or to little understanding. A single eye helps a lot in this. Look for one thing, and you will be much less concerned with useless reasoning.--My dear Miss Helena. Bishop, his affectionate brother. [38]

Violent Jealousy Among Young People Is Something Entirely New Among Methodists

But this violent jealousy among his young women is something entirely new among the Methodists; I have not known anything like it in the three kingdoms. And yet, I don't know if they have less sense or less elegance than others of their age or gender. But this is one proof among a thousand that, if God leaves us alone for a moment, there is no foolishness in which our subtle adversary does not lead the wisest of the human race

To Mary Bishop

LONDON, October 31, 1773.

MY DEAR SISTER,--I have prepared your letter so carefully that I cannot find it. But as I'm going to Norfolk early, I won't stay until I get back before I write.

Overall, there's nothing new under the sun. But this violent jealousy among his young women is something entirely new among the Methodists; I have not known anything like it in the three kingdoms. And yet, I don't know if they have less sense or less elegance than others of their age or gender. But this is one proof among a thousand that, if God leaves us alone for a moment, there is no foolishness into which our subtle adversary does not lead the wisest of the human race. However, I don't see that you are authorized to waive your charge for this account. It seems that you should simply lay out the whole affair to Mr. Pawson and Allen [John Pawson was Supernumerary in Bristol; John Allen, who became itinerant in 1766 and died in 1810, was Wesley's assistant. They are frank and impartial judges, without prejudice on one side or the other; and I believe that they will be able to judge, in each emergency, what steps are the most appropriate to take.

One of the reasons, perhaps, for this being allowed was to confuse the pride of his understanding. You were considered a sensible woman and praised for that. And our nature easily receives this kind of praise. But see how little your judgment is! You can't do more than if you were an idiot. 'The help that is made on earth He does it himself,' whether with or without instruments. Let your whole soul abide upon Him for time and eternity. I'm always very happy to hear from you. And you can speak freely with, my dear Miss Helena. Bishop,

With affection.

To Miss Bishop, Near the Cross Bath,

In Bath. [39]

The Difference Between Weight and Darkness of the Soul

The difference between the heaviness and darkness of the soul (the desert state) must never be forgotten. Darkness (unless in the case of bodily disorders) seldom surrounds us, except through our own fault. Not so with regard to weighing, which may be occasioned by a thousand circumstances, which often neither our wisdom can foresee nor our power prevent

To Mary Bishop

BRISTOL, September 13, 1774.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- The difference between heaviness and darkness of the soul (the desert state) must never be forgotten. Darkness (unless in the case of bodily disorders) seldom surrounds us, except through our own fault. Not so with regard to weighness, which may be occasioned by a thousand circumstances, such as often neither our wisdom can foresee nor our power prevent. It seems that his judgment was of the second kind; Perhaps it was also partly because of the body. But, whatever the type, you can benefit from it: you don't have to leave you as you found yourself. Remember Mr. Dodd's wise saying,

'It is a great loss to lose an affliction.' If you don't improve because of it, you lose the money. But then you can gain both humility, seriousness and resignation.

I think the rarely you listen to Moravians, the better. I should have heard them two or three times in a year; And maybe I would have done it without any suffering. But others would have been encouraged by my example to listen to them. And if any of these had been destroyed, their blood would have been on my head. Some have recently advised me to omit what refers to them in the present edition of my Diaries. The same would be done if the evil were removed. But I have no reason to believe that it is. I never saw them recognize any particular fault. And without this there can be no amendment.

On Wednesday, the 21st of this instantanee, I hope to see you in Bath on your way to Bradford. I intend to preach about noon, and dine in one with the person who lives across the street from Brother Hemmings. "I am, my dear sister, Yours with affection.

For Miss Helena. Bishop, near the Bath of the Cross, in Bath. [40]

We become all things to all men, so as not to hurt our own souls

We become all things to all men, that we may not injure our own souls, when we first secure a single eye, a firm plan, to please all for their good and edification, and then we see to it that our discourse is always good for edifying and kindred use, that it may minister grace to the hearers.

To Mary Bishop

REIGATE, November 30, 1774.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- We become all things to all men, so as not to injure our own souls, when we first secure a single eye, a firm plan, to please all for their good and edification, and then we see to it that our discourse is always good for edifying and fine use, which may minister grace to the hearers. But for that, we need power from on high and the wisdom that is next to the throne. This alone allows us to organize our conversation correctly, to benefit both others and our own souls.

Before this can be done effectively, you must conquer your nature reserve and exercise it only with those of whom you know nothing or of whom you know nothing good. There may be a time when this is highly expedient, if not necessary—that is, when good people (at least to some extent) sink under your character, spend time, or indulge in a conversation that tends to improve either the speaker or the listener.

I don't think it will be better for you to go out less than you ever did. Suppose you have more faith and more love (as I would imagine you do), you should certainly go out more. Otherwise, your faith will die callously. It is only by works that it can be perfected. And the more the love of solitude is nurtured, the more it will increase. This is a common temptation among men. In every age and country, Satan whispered to those who began to taste the powers of the world to come (as well as to Gregory Lopez): 'Au desert!' Au desert! Most of our little flock in Oxford have been tested with this, especially my brother and I. No, but I say, 'To the Bible! To the Bible!' And there you will learn, "when you have time, to do good to all men": to warn every man, to exhort every man when you have opportunity; Although most of their care and work should be dedicated to those who belong to the family of faith. Surely you can continue to do good to others without jeopardizing the salvation of your own soul. What you desire most at present is simplicity, in the sense of the Archbishop of Cambray's word: that grace 'by which the soul discards all unnecessary reflections upon itself.' I wish I could talk about you, as I said about a young man many years ago when I sent her his little book,--

In art, in nature, we can find

Colors to represent you

Speak, with Cambray's quill, into Sally's mind;

It is simplicity.

"I am, my dear Miss Helena." Bishop,

With affection.

Miss S. Bishop, near the Bath of the Cross, in Bath. [41]

'Pray for one another, and be healed' of all that they have confessed to one another'

I need only remember one more scripture: 'Let them pray for him; and the prayer of faith will save the sick; and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him.' The promise in the next verse is even more comprehensive: 'Pray one for another, and be healed' of all that you have confessed to one another'

To Mary Bishop

LONDON, December 26, 1776.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- You are quite clear about Miss Helena. Mahon. You have done everything in your power; and if she no longer accepts his services, her blood will be upon her own head. But I'm not going to give up on her just yet. I wrote to Mr. Valton at Oxford, and asked him to talk to Mrs. Mahon. Perhaps a letter from her could be helpful. But I don't expect to hear anything good from her daughter while she's ashamed to watch the preaching.

Or this text in Ezekiel xxxiii. 8 means literal or has no meaning at all. And nothing is more certain, indeed, than that thousands perish through the negligence of others. And yet God is fully justified in this, because the chief cause of his destruction is his own abandonment; They did not bother to seek their own salvation with fear and trembling.

Whatever other ends are answered by prayer, this is one, and it seems the principal one, that we may have the petitions which we ask of Him. Asking is the appointed means to receive, and what it is for others as well as for ourselves; how we may learn partly by reason itself, but more fully by our own experience, and still more clearly by revelation. Reason teaches us to argue from analogy. If you (because you have respect for me) would do more for a third person at my request than you would otherwise, how much more would God, at the request of His beloved children, give blessings to those for whom they pray and whom otherwise He would not have given! And as every experience confirms this! How often have the petitions of others been granted for our behalf, and on our behalf on behalf of others.

But the most decisive proof of all is the scripture: 'Go to my servant Job, and he will pray for you; for him I accept.' It was not a temporal blessing that was at issue, but a spiritual one, the forgiveness of their sin. Thus, when St. Paul said, 'Brothers, pray for us,' he desired it not merely for temporal reasons, that 'he might be delivered out of the lion's mouth,' but for a spiritual one, 'that he might speak boldly as he ought to speak.' But the examples of this are numerous. In proof of the general truth that God bestows upon us both temporal and spiritual blessings in answer to each other's prayers, I need only recall one more scripture: 'Let them pray for him; and the prayer of faith will save the sick; and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him.' The promise in the next verse is even more comprehensive: 'Pray one for another, and be healed' of all that they have confessed to one another.

I am sorry for every godly young woman who is not as active as possible, seeing that each one receives her own reward according to her own work. Oh, don't waste time! Buy every opportunity to do good. And give more and more joy to, my dear friend,

With affection.

At Miss Helena's house. March, in Bristol. [42]

Sea breezes can be useful to you

Sea breezes can be helpful to you if you have the opportunity to use constant exercise. This has brought many out of the gates of death. It is something beyond any medicine, whatever it is.

To Mary Bishop

BRISTOL, September 15, 1777.

MY DEAR MISS BISHOP,-- There is seldom much heat in the preaching house at Bradford: at least, it is not caused by the greatness of the congregation; although I think it was bigger last week than I've seen in several years.

We have reason to be thankful that none of our friends in Bristol have been harmed by Mr. Hilton's change. [See letters of August 6 and October 22 (to Miss Helena S. Bishop).] They seem to be grieved, but not wounded, but more established in truth. From Miss Helena. Flower, I heard something not very pleasant. But I can't say anything yet. In a day or two I hope to have the opportunity to talk to her, and then I will know how to judge. If she copies my dear Miss Helena. Yerbury, I will have no more pain for her.

Sea breezes can be helpful to you if you have the opportunity to use constant exercise. This has brought many out of the gates of death. It is something beyond any medicine, whatever it is.

I have great hopes that this sickness will not be unto death, but that the glory of the Lord will be revealed. Kempis' rule admits of many exceptions. Whatever the case may be at the time, we now have abundant evidence that many are improved by disease; unless it is said 'in sickness.' This is one of the great means which God employs for this purpose. In sickness many are convicted of sin, many converted to God, and still more confirmed in God's ways and brought to perfection.

His gracious design in yours seems to be chiefly this—to wean you still further from created things, to do and keep you dead for all below. For this, you are in a certain way isolated from everything that can find everything of yourself in Him. If He wants to restore you, you will be an instrument worthy of the Master's use.

It seems that the best way to enjoy this retirement that results from your current weakness is to divide your time between reading, meditation, and prayer, mixed with serious conversation. And when your strength permits, you should strive to do a little good; Just be careful at the beginning not to go too far. A few years ago we had a small Society in Southampton; You may find some remaining fragments. May the God of all grace, after a time of suffering, make you perfect, stabilized, strengthen, and soothe—I am, my dear sister,

His brother always affectionate. [43]

You also don't have to relapse into your disorder, if you take the precautions that common sense requires

It is not likely that you will be able to teach anymore, as this implies breathing for a long time in confined air and talking several hours a day. But I don't doubt that you will be able to meet a class, maybe in a month. You also don't have to relapse into your disorder, if you take the precautions that common sense requires

To Mary Bishop

NEAR LONDON, JUNE 26 , 1777.

MY DEAR SISTER,--Blessed be God that I have hitherto helped and lifted you up from the gates of death! It is not likely that you will be able to teach anymore, as this implies breathing for a long time in confined air and talking several hours a day. But I don't doubt that you will be able to meet a class, maybe in a month. Nor does it have to fall back into your disorder, if you take the precautions that common sense requires.

Yesterday I spent time with Dr. Dodd and spoke with him very freely. He seems to be exactly in the temperament one would like, calmly resigned to the will of God. I hope that Miss Helena S. March is regaining his strength as well as you are; And I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

For Miss Helena. Bishop, at Miss Bishop's house. March,in Bristol. [44]

If one has gone out of their way to enlarge, rather than heal, this little breach

If you visit it, you will easily realize whether my fears are fair or not. And you'll soon find out if anyone has gone out of their way to enlarge, rather than heal, this little breach. Go in the name of God and add this to the other situations of friendship that you have shown on all occasions

To Mary Bishop

CASTLEBAR, May 15, 1778.

MY DEAR MISS BISHOP, "When I received the last letter from Miss Flower, I was completely surprised. [See letters of November 16, 1777 and August 20, 1778.] It was a civil (let's say, or impolite) excuse from continuing to write to her, and it seemed to me to express all the passion I thought she shouldn't feel. Therefore, I stood on my feet, not knowing whether it was advisable to write again or not. After a pause, I thought it would not be wrong to write another letter. I did this, writing as clearly and sincerely as possible, but in a gentle and affectionate way. I believe that was about a month ago. Since then, I have not had any more calls from her. Therefore, I cannot write again; It would be totally out of character. However, I am very worried about it, and I thought yesterday: 'What can I do next? There is no prudent and affectionate friend, for whom she still respects, and whom I would like to intervene on this delicate occasion, and, if possible, dispel this misunderstanding' You are the woman! As soon as I read your letter, I saw everything clear as day. She still loves you; And you have a fondness for her. Use, therefore, the privilege of friendship. I am afraid that she will have one with her that does not do her any good—that instead of striving to eliminate any prejudice, she would try to increase it, and gradually drive her away from all her friends. If you visit it, you will easily realize whether my fears are fair or not. And you'll soon find out if anyone has gone out of their way to enlarge, rather than heal, this little breach. Go in the name of God and add this to the other situations of friendship that you have on every occasion shown, whether to her or to my dear Miss Helena. Bishop,

With affection.

For Miss Helena. Bishop, near the Bath of the Cross, in Bath. [45]

Coal poultice will heal you

If you had covered the wound with white paper wet with saliva, it would have stuck until you were fine. 'Maybe I still can. But if not, the coal poultice will cure you in a few days. Throw common coal into the fire; sift it through a sieve; mix this powder with warm water; Place this poultice, half an inch thick, on a linen between the wound, changing every twenty-four hours. But you're going to need patience

To your niece Sarah Wesley

LONDON, July 13, 1790.

MY DEAR SALLY, -- As my friends would not accept refusals, I took two or three days to see them, only adding a hundred and fifty miles to my journey. If my life extends until October, I hope we will meet then. If not, we'll find ourselves in a better place. It is remarkable that you are in this gentleman's house. I don't remember seeing him just once. It was when I was at Temple Church, and he laughed and did sports most of the time. [Mr. L-----. See the July 31 letter to her.]

With all the affection. [46]

What cannot be healed must be endured

It is a pity that a good and useful man should be torn from the people. But we don't know how to avoid it. So, 'what cannot be healed must be endured.'

For Thomas Taylor

NORWICH, October 14, 1790.

DEAR TOMMY, -- It is a pity that a good and useful man should be torn from the people. But we don't know how to avoid it. So, 'what cannot be healed must be endured.'

According to his account, Brother Shaw [Thomas Shaw, his colleague at Hull, was 'remarkable for disinterest and zeal'; he died in 1801.] and his wife have seventeen pounds a year. My judgment is, and yours, that... Of common shares. But I think that those who already have as much or more cannot really demand or receive anything in return. Peace be with you and yours! -- I am, dear Tommy,

Your affectionate friend and brother. [47]

You sink under the sin of omission

Sick or well, go! If you can't say a word, go; and God will go with you. You sink under the sin of omission! My friend, my sister, go! It will, whether it succeeds or not. Break through the barrier! Take up your cross. I repeat, do the first works; and God will restore your first love! And you'll be a comfort, not a sorrow

To Ann Bolton

HIGH WYCOMBE, November 4, 1790.

MY DEAR SISTER, THE MORE I CONSIDER YOUR CASE, THE MORE CONVINCED I AM THAT YOU ARE IN THE SCHOOL OF GOD, AND THAT THE LORD LOVES WHOM HE CHASTISES. From the moment you stopped meeting with your gang or band, you were grieved by God's Holy Spirit, and He gave Satan a commission to bombard you, and that commission will never be revoked until you start meeting again. Why, you were not a mother in Israel, a repairer of the desolate places, a guide to the blind, a healer of the sick, a lifter of the hands that hung downwards. Wherever you came, God was with you and shining on your path. Many daughters acted virtuously; but you overcame them all. Woman, remember faith! In the name of God, go again and do the first works! I exhort you for my sake (who love you dearly), for God's sake, for the sake of your own soul, to begin again without delay. The next day when you receive this, go and meet a class or a band. Sick or well, go! If you can't say a word, go; and God will go with you. You sink under the sin of omission! My friend, my sister, go! It will, whether it succeeds or not. Break through the barrier! Take up your cross. I repeat, do the first works; and God will restore your first love! And you'll be a comfort, not a sorrow, to

With all the affection. [48]

If you do, it will quickly darken your soul

Because your mind is sensitive and easily moved, you can easily fall into excessive affection; If you do, it will quickly darken your soul. But see and pray, and you will not fall into temptation.

To Rebecca Yeoman

LONDON, February 5, 1772.

Your affectionate brother. [49]

Healing grace

His feelings tended to be too impetuous, and sometimes unequal as well; but nature yields to healing grace, which I believe has made you both calmer and firmer

To Philothea Briggs

WHITEHAVEN, April 12, 1772.

Healing soul and body together

But it will be a double blessing if you surrender yourself to the Great Physician, so that He can heal soul and body together. And without a doubt, this is His plan

To Alexander Knox

LONDON, October 26, 1778.

DEAR ALLECK, "You need never be afraid to write to me too often. I am almost concerned about everything that concerns you, and so I am always very happy to hear from you and find that you are still returning to heaven.

Guidance on this or that meaning is as much an answer to prayer as if healing were done immediately. But it will be a double blessing if you surrender yourself to the Great Physician, so that He can heal soul and body together. And without a doubt, this is His plan. He wants to give you and my dear Mrs. Knox health both inside and out. And why not now? Surely all things are ready: believe, and receive the blessing. There is no doubt that your body disorder affects your mind a lot. Be careful to prevent the disease by diet and not by the doctor. Look up and look forward to the happy days! - Dear Alleck,

With affection. [51]

Healing both body and soul

If the returns of your disorder are increasingly mild, there is reason to hope that it will finally be fully removed. Most likely, if you live to twenty-five or six, your constitution will change course. But surely it is His design that loves you to heal both body and soul

To Alexander Knox

BRISTOL, March 19, 1777.

DEAREST SIR,-- If the returns of your disorder are milder and softer, there is reason to hope that it will finally be entirely removed. Most likely, if you live to twenty-five or six, your constitution will change course. But surely it is His plan that loves you to heal both body and soul; and possibly He delays the healing of the first so that the healing of the second keeps pace. Because 'it is a great loss to lose an affliction,' He does not want you to lose what you have suffered. I trust that it will not be lost, but it will be for your benefit, so that you can be part of His holiness. It is a blessing that He has given you that fear which is the beginning of wisdom; And it is a promise of greater things to come. How long? Maybe today....

If I could take the time, I would gladly accept your invitation; but I doubt I can go beyond Dublin. [He spent October 3-13 in Dublin.] Peace be with all your spirits-- I am, my dear Alleck,

With all the affection. [52]

Often postpones bodily health until soul and body heal together

But He often postpones bodily health until He heals soul and body together. Perhaps this is His plan for you. But why don't you go to salt water? If you're broke, let me gladly help you out a bit.

To Alexander Knox

BRISTOL, July 29, 1777.

DEAR ALLECK,--I have just returned from a trip to Monmouthshire and other parts of Wales.

No: God has not forgotten you. You must not say, 'He hides His face, and He will never see you.' Surely God saw it; and He cannot despise the work of His own hands. But He often postpones bodily health until He heals soul and body together. Perhaps this is His plan for you. But why don't you go to salt water? If you're broke, let me gladly help you out a bit. In the meantime, I give you a word for your consideration,--' Why are you so heavy, O my soul? And why are you restless within me? Oh, trust in God! I will still give thanks to Him, who is the help of my face and my God.'

Peace be with all your spirits--I am

With affection. [53]

Almighty power can heal both your soul and your body

Despite all this, I have no doubt that I see you as a healthy and happy man. But it is true that nothing short of almighty power can heal both your soul and your body.

To Alexander Knox

PENRHYN, August 29, 1777.

MY DEAR ALLECK,-- You should read Mr. Fletcher's Essay on Truth. He has placed there, without any doubt, that there is a medium between a child of God and a child of the devil — that is, a servant of God. This is your state. You are not yet a son, but you are a servant; and you wait for the Spirit of adoption, who will cry out in your hearts, 'Abba, Father.' You have "received the Spirit of grace," and to some extent you accomplish righteousness. Without suffering for what you don't have, you have reason to bless God for what you have, and wait patiently for Him to give rest by revealing His Son in your heart.

Despite all this, I have no doubt that I see you as a healthy and happy man. But it is true that nothing short of almighty power can heal both your soul and your body. And isn't that enough? Do you have no reason to rejoice because 'salvation is from the Lord'? I pray, who can you trust best? Who loves you more than Him? Then out, in despair! Hope until the end. To Him I commend you all; and I am, dear Alleck,

With all the affection. [54]

[1] Overview Powered by Google AI

[2] [2] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[3] [3] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[4] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[5] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[6] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[7] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[8] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789a/

[9] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/

[10] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/

[11] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/

[12] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1780b/

[13]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[14]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[15]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[16]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[17]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[18]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[19]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[20]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[21]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[22] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[23] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[24] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[25] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[26] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[27] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[28] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[29] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[30] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[31] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[32] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[33] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[34] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[35] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[36] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[37] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/

[38] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[39] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[40] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[41] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[42] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1776/

[43] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/

[44] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/

[45] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

[46] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790b/

[47] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790b/

[48] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790b/

[49] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772a/

[50] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772a/

[51] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

[52] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

[53] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

[54] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

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