Christian letters full of spiritual instructions tending to the promoting of the power of…

I Would my time were as long as my heart, that I might open my self to you; but I was not without some discontent diverted, when I was setting my self to have Written at large to you. Now I am pinched, however I could not leave my dear charge altogether unvisited, but must needs salute you in a few Lines. Brethren, how stands it with you? doth the main work go on? do your souls prosper? This is my care, beware that you Flag not, that you faint not now in the evil day. I understand that your dangers grow upon you, may your Faith and courage and resolution grow accordingly, and much more abundantly to overtop them. Some of your enemies I hear are in great hopes to satisfy their lusts upon you: well, be not discouraged my dear Brethren, ⟨p. 42⟩but bless the Lord who of his abundant Mercy, hath so remarkably preserved you so long beyond all expectation. Let it not be a strange thing to you, if the Lord do now call you to some difficulty: forsake not the Assembling of your selves together, as the manner of some is. I plainly see the Coal of Religion will soon go out, unless it have some better helps to cherish it, then a Carnal Ministry, and lifeless Administration. Dear Brethren, now is the time for you that fear the Lord, to speak often one to another: manage your duties with what prudence you an, but away with that Carnal prudence, that will decline duty to avoid danger. Is the Communion of Saints worth the venturing for? Shut not up your doors against Godly Meetings. I am told that it is become a hard matter, when a Minister is willing to take pains with you to get place: ar be this from you my Brethren. What, shut out the Word! suppose there be somewhat more danger to him that gives the Minister entertainment? Is there not much more advantage accordingly? did not Oed Edom, and his House get the blessing by entertaining the Ark there? or do you think God hath never a blessing for those that shall with much Self-denial entertain his Messengers, his Saints, his Worship? are you believers, and yet are afraid you shall be losers by Christ? do you indeed not know that he that runs most hazard for Christ, doth express most love to Christ, and shall receive the greatest reward; away with that unbelief, that prefers the present safety, before the future glory.