Blackfriars, November 30, 1779

My good Friend: — I have been taught to weep with them that weep. They cannot but feel with and for one another who are joined to the Lord in one Spirit. That you suffer seems grievous to the flesh. I sympathize with you; but I also find the Lord is with you, supports you, yea, he comforts you; therein I do rejoice. My prayer is for much patience under his hand, and much profit from his rod. Let me direct your attention to Hebrews xii. from the 5th verse to the 14th. The whole matter turns upon the character of the person who afflicts. Is it in wrath, or in love 1 Does he punish as a judge, or correct as a father 1 Mind how the sentence begins — My son: — Keep this upon your heart. You have fled to Jesus, you have taken the benefit of his atonement and of his righteousness; you are, therefore, the adopted child of the most high God.

And you must not think he changes his love when he changes his dispensations. He is always your Father. And say, his rod is for the present not joyous, but grievous; yet mind verse 11, it only seemeth; the flesh seems to be hurt, but really it is not; it is only in appearance. Look nearer; you may easily see love sending, love inflicting; and wait a little, you will have reason to thank your Father for the blessed fruits of his love. If you live, you will find them very rich and ripe. If he spare life, my first journey shall

be to K. I have great fellowship with

the afilicted. I shall hope and pray for your support and comforts; my God has promised both. May they be abundant! This summer lias given me great occasion to learn the same lesson with you; and I can set to my seal, that God is good, and doeth good, nothing but good, to his children. To his tender care I commend you and yours. Look above, live above, both your joys and sorrows; make Jesus, at least you wish to make Jesus, your all. I shall be thankful for a line when convenient, to tell me more of his dealings with you; and am, in him, your faithful dear friend and servant,

W. R.