Reflection 61

On contemplating God’s character and gratitude for His blessings; the “paths of peace” for happiness now and the life to come; and the “sure means” for progress in the Christian faith – in a letter to Lord Muncaster... 

“I am staying to-day in the country, enjoying the first greetings of summer—the nightingales are abundant, and, my dear friend, while through nature I look up to nature’s God, and still more when, from regarding the Author of nature, I further contemplate Him in the still more endearing character of the God of grace and consolation, my heart is warmed and thankful for the unequalled blessings I enjoy. I look down with unaffected superiority on the contentious sparrings of our political parties. Happy they who pursue those paths which even here are alone paths of peace, though pleasantness may sometimes (precarious pleasantness) be found in other ways, and which alone will at length conduct us to permanent and solid happiness. O my dear Muncaster, press forward in these ways. The Scriptures, prayer, with humble reliance on our Redeemer and Intercessor, and on the aids of His promised Spirit, these are the sure means of progress.”

Date: May 1, 1804

Volume 3: Pages 157-158

Posted: 20260117