Wesley Corpus

To Mrs. Ryan Date: LEWISHAM, December 14, 1757. Source: The Letters of John Wesley (1757) Author: John Wesley --- MY DEAR SISTER -- I find by Mr. Perronet’s last letter [Charles Perronet. See letters of July 12, 1757, and Nov. 4, 1758.] that he is deeply offended, that his former affection (so he speaks) is degenerated into a cold esteem, and that he no longer rerds me as a dear friend but as an austere master. Has he not a little affected you He does not speak with passion; but his words distill as the dew. The God whom you serve send forth His light and His truth, and direct you in every thought! Do you never find any wandering thoughts in prayer or useless thoughts at other seasons Does the corruptible body never press down the soul and make it muse about useless things Have you so great a command over your imagination as to keep out all unprofitable images -- at least, to banish them the moment they appear, so that they nether trouble nor sully your soul Do you find every reasoning brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ Is there no vanity or folly in your dreams no temptation that almost overcomes you And are you then as sensible of the presence of God and as full of prayer as when you are waking I can hardly avoid trembling for you still: upon what a pinnacle do you stand! Perhaps few persons in England have been in so dangerous a situation as you are now. I know not whether any other was ever so regarded both by my brother and me at the same time. What can I do to help you The Father of mercies help you and with His favorable kindness surround you on every side! May the eternal Spirit help you in every thought, word, and work to serve the living God! -- I am Your affectionate brother.