Wesley Corpus

your undertakings but to perform the will of your Father who is in heaven, and finish the work he hath given you to do? Who among us can stand so severe a test, or whom will not conscience condemn upon so strict a trial ? Who is there that may be termed holy in the sense of this word, as it implies a total renun ciation of the world, the flesh, and the devil ; and an entire and absolute surrender of himself to God ? alas ! who can lay his hand upon his heart and say, " that no private views, no secret ends, mix with his devotion!" that God. has not only some place in our thoughts, but the whole of our souls and minds at his dis posal, and reigns alone in the hearts he has formed. There are many rivals who will dis pute with him his right to absolute and entire dominion : the world, with her pomps and vanities, pleasures and delights, entertainments and diversions, has monopolized a large share of our affections ; sensuality also ruleth with an almost uncontrolled sway ; nor is the evil spirit of darkness without share of power and influence over us. Now while any of these have dominion,