Diary Extract 66 July 25

Spectator 1788 Saddhiyama, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

July 25 I have spent the greatest part of my vacant time this week in reading the seventh volume of the Spectator; it is a very ingenious work though it does not contain much Scriptural divinity. The authors have sought out and set in order as the wise man says many excellent moral instructions. I was much affected this day in conversing with my brother in the ties of nature and no less so in the bonds of Christian love. I have some hope that my youngest sister is also begun to be serious.

The Spectator was a series of daily perodicals published originally in 1711 and 1712 by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele and later prouduced in bound volumes. The work atempted to be witty but also moral.

Diary Extract 65 July 21

Tuesday July 21 I have been deeply affected in considering myself as a creature possessed of an immortal soul that must exist for ever, either in happiness or misery. May I be diligent in making my calling and election sure and solicitous every day to make some advances in knowledge and holiness.

Diary Extract 64 1761 July 15

Wednesday July 15 This day I have had the opportunity of hearing a sermon preached at Bradford by Mr John Wesley from Rom xiii:11, 12 It is high time to awake &c. He spoke many important truths. He described that sleep which often overtakes the Christian into which I have reason to lament that I have fallen many times. When I went to hear my mind was in a drowsy state but I trust the Lord blessed what I heard to revive me a little. May my conduct for time to come show that this is really the case.

Diary Extract 63 1761 July 13

Monday July 13

All bountiful King

Thy name I adore

And joyfully sing

Thy wisdom and power

Thy sovereign mercy

Through Jesus thy Son

To one that's unworthy

Is daily made known

Diary Extract 62 1761 July 10

Friday July 10 I have been much edified in reading a page or two of Mr Henry's life. O that I may follow him as he followed Christ.

(The lfe of Matthew Henry was written by William Tong)