Required reading
The Journals of George Whitefield (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Section II (A brief and summary account of my temptations).
My summary
Firstly we read of the persecution Whitefield received for being a 'Methodist' from:
(i) fellow students;
(ii) teachers;
(iii) relations.
Then Whitefield describes the weight that bore on him for twelve months and the consequences of it on his health and studies.
The section ends with the lifting of the burden.
What grabbed me
It was good to see Whitefield's sufferings removed: '...after I had been groaning under an unspeakable pressure both of body and mind for above a twelve-month, God was pleased to set me free in the following manner. One day, perceiving an uncommon drought and a disaggreeable clamminess in my mouth and using things to allay my thirst, but in vain, it was suggested to me, that when Jesus Christ cried out, "I thirst," His sufferings were near at an end. Upon which I cast myself down on the bed, crying out, "I thirst! I thirst!". Soon after this, I found and felt in myself that I was delivered from the burden that had so heavily oppressed me. The spirit of mourning was taken from me, and I knew what it was truly to rejoice in God my Saviour; and, for some time, could not avoid singing psalms wherever I was; but my joy gradually became more settled, and, blessed be God, has abode and increased in my soul, saving a few casual intermissions, ever since.'
Praise be to God for the deliverance of his servants.
Next week's reading
Read Section III 'From the time of my first leaving the university to go to Gloucester, till the time of my ordination'.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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