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they have read, and then to repeat some answers most remarkable without
speaking much of their own. Lastly, if possible, to return to the former way of
keeping such an exercise which was approved and, I pray, will be further blessed.
Amen.
1788
January ’88
3. Being prevented by many avocations, I sit down this morning to praise the
Lord for the innumerable mercies of the past and the recent instances of Divine
goodness towards us in the beginning of the year. Fain would I continue these
memoirs in the fear of the Lord, whose I am and whom I desire to live, and to
serve in the gospel of His Son Jesus Christ. I lament former backslidings, and
humbly beg the forgiveness of all my deficiencies in every duty, and pardon for
all my iniquities in heart and life. Oh, may I obtain mercy and grace, and be
renewed more and more in the spirit of my mind and also strength of soul and
body, to persevere and advance in the ways of faith and Holiness. In order to
become more meet and prepared for the will and work of our God, I am but feeble
and weak in every respect, though not so desponding as in former times. I have
reason to bless the Lord for strength equal to day and duty, and would patiently
wait on a faithful Savior, in whom is life and righteousness, wisdom and strength,
to quicken, to instruct, and to lead, in every path of duty, even unto the perfect
day. Oh, may the blessed Jesus be my ever lasting life and portion, and I receive
of Him all necessary supply of the Holy Spirit of life, to press forwards to the
mark of the high calling both as a Christian and as a minister. I desire, in the
strength of Christ, to renew my covenant and to devote myself wholly to the God
of salvation in Christ. Lord, I am Thy servant. This be my greatest honor and my
principal work, and oh, may I be found faithful and so doing, also successful in
the work of the Lord. I thank the Father of mercies for the continuance of His
mercies and providential kindnesses, to sinful, unworthy me and my family. Pity
my dear youngest child, Father, and bless the means for her recovery. Oh, may
we live to see our children growing up before the Lord, and may the schools be
blessed to mine and all the children. Grant my colleague also success in both
offices, and make him more and more fervent and prudent. Spare us together, and
bless our purposes and endeavors for Zion’s prosperity. Lord! Bless Thy Church
and ordinances, and all Thy ministering servants, with the experience of Thy
peculiar assistance and particular grace. Remove animosities and dissensions out
of Thy Church, and forgive all our follies and imprudences, all jealousies and
opposition to one another. May truth with peace and Godliness prevail, and all
our land be filled with much of Thy gospel, grace, and primitive piety and love.
Bless my native country; restore peace and concord and former zeal for Thy glory.
Preserve Thy people and Church, and my relations and friends. Be Thou their
refuge and defense, and may I hear of them that the Lord is gracious unto them.
Now, Father, into Thy hands and unto the Word of Thy grace I commit and
commend myself and my family, now and forever. Amen.
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