Wesley Corpus

MY DEAR HETTY, - It is a great mercy that, on the one hand, you have previous warning of the trials that are at hand; and, on the other, are not careful about them, but only prep. ared to encounter them. We know, indeed, that these (as well as all things) are ordered by unerring Wisdom, and are given us exactly at the right time and in due number, weight, and measure. And they continue no longer than is best; for CHANCE has no share in the government of the world. [See letter of Aug. 12, 1731, to Mrs. Pendarves.] 'THE LORD REIGNETH,' and disposes all things strongly and sweetly for the good of them that love Him. I rejoice to hear that you have now less hindrances in the way and can oftener converse with His people. Be sure to improve every one of those precious opportunities of doing and receiving good. I am often grieved to observe that, although on His part 'the gifts and calling of God are without repentance'; although He never repents of anything He has given us, but is willing to give it always; yet so very few retain the same ardor of affection which they receive either when they are justified or when they are (more fully) sanctified. Certainly they need not lose any part of their light or love. It may increase more and more. Of this you are a witness for God; and so is our dear Miss Ritchie. [See letter of Oct. 6, 1778, where the full assurance of hope is discussed.] You have not lost anything of what you have received; your light has never grown dim nor your love grown cold since the moment God first visited you with His great salvation. And I hope also you will ever retain the same affection for Yours most tenderly. To Elizabeth Ritchie LONDON, February 12, 1779.