Downham.
Dear Housekeeper,WE have just received tidings that we have got rid of the lease of Providence Chapel, which I am glad of at my heart: and I do believe that we shall see the good hand of God in this conflagration, as many here are receiving benefits from our visit this way, which the fire served to hasten; for I did not intend coming so soon, nor staying quite so long, had I not been burnt out of my nest. The long fast in London will spur them on to liberality.
The leper, under the law, that had in his own eyes on one spot, was utterly unclean; but when he was covered all over with scurf, from head to foot, he was clean; and was to be pronounced so, Levit. xiii. Little spots need not the great Physician, out when our whole nature is laid open, we are devils indeed; and none in earth or hell, appear half so bad. This is God's teaching, and blessed learning it is; there is no guile, deceit, or hypocrisy in these wholesome lessons. We see, we feel, we rue, we lament the pollution, and tremble at the consequences; and with such trembling ones will God dwell; this makes the heart and mouth honest, conscience tender, and the Saviour precious. Such as these, and no other, will Christ accept.
"Sinners are high in his esteem,
And sinners highly value him."
Accept my love.
W. H., S. S.
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