Reflection 118

On forgetfulness of God – in a letter to Lord Muncaster…

“Alas, my friend. Providence has not done with us I fear! Not a word or a thought about God. We seem in general to recognise Him as little in His chastisements as in His mercies. How little does all seem, compared with His favour! May you and I, my dear friend, possess a share of it.”

Date: December 6, 1800

Volume 2: Pages 385-386

Posted: 20230422

Reflection 117

On the sadness of “misery and sin,” especially when it’s self-imposed, and warrants God’s judgment…

His stay at Bognor was not much prolonged. A scanty harvest had increased the general discontent; and parliament was summoned to meet for the dispatch of business on the 11th of November; “ministry,” he says, “being, I fear, influenced not merely by the scarcity, but by a warlike disposition. My heart is sick at so much misery and sin, and when I consider what chastisement we deserve at God’s hands on the one side, and contemplate the storms I see brewing on the other, I begin to tremble.”

Date: October 17, 1800

Volume 2: Page 383

Posted: 20230416

Reflection 116

On the blessing of affliction, and how quickly we miss it…

“I am much struck,” he writes to a friend,* “with whom he was soon after called to sympathize, “by this fresh visitation. Alas! we go on commonly in a course of too uniform and uninterrupted comfort. Read St. Paul’s list of sufferings. Yet let us praise God, and extract good from present evil, and turn temporary suffering into everlasting happiness.”

       Carefully did he scrutinize his own spirit when the hand of God was taken from him, lest he should lose any of the blessing of affliction. “I have heard,” he writes to Mr. Hey, “of all your affectionate sympathy with me in my late heavy trial. God has in His chastisement remembered mercy; and my beloved wife is spared to me, and is gradually recovering her health and strength. May I improve from the discipline through which I have gone; but it is truly melancholy and humiliating to observe, how the strong feelings of the mind in the moments of suffering decay and grow cold after it is over. This hardness of heart towards God, in spite of the uniform and unvarying dictates of the judgment, is a sad proof of corruption.”

*Thomas Babington, philanthropist and politician 

Date: October 1800

Volume 2: Pages 382-383

Posted: 20230408

Reflection 115

On trusting God with his wife’s severe illness, part 3 – a summary of his response and a prayer…

The issue of the fever was long doubtful, nor was it before the 14th of October, that he was able to thank God for any decided improvement. The tone of his own feelings throughout this painful time, shows the height to which he had attained in the school of Christ. Truly had he learned to take patiently the loving corrections of his heavenly Father. “Mr. Wilberforce,” writes Mrs. Henry Thornton, “has behaved greatly, if one may so say of a Christian; he is now very calm, and waiting the event with much submission and quietness.” “My mind, I thank God, is very composed. O Lord, take not Thy Holy Spirit from me: take away the heart of stone, and give me a heart of flesh; that under Thy chastisements, I may lift up to Thee a humble, reverential, and even thankful eye, and desire that Thy correction may work its due effect, and keep me closer to Thee for strength, and light, and warmth, and all things. Much affected and struck to-day in the address. Rev. iii. to the Laodicean lukewarm church, (too much my own condition,) with the words of kindness at the close—‘As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous, therefore, and repent.’”

Date: September 28, 1800 (Journal)

Volume 2: Pages 381-382

Posted: 20230330

Reflection 114

On trusting God with his wife’s severe illness, part 2 – in a letter to a friend…

“You will I am sure,” he tells another friend three days later, “hear with no little emotion, that it has pleased God to visit my dearest wife with a very dangerous fever. I had, I own, nearly dismissed all hope. But to-day matters wear a more favourable aspect, though Dr. Fraser, who is with us, (having most kindly hurried down on my first imperfect statement, which conveyed to his discernment the idea of no time being to be lost,) tells us not to be elated, but still to be prepared for the worst. What an unspeakable consolation and support is it in such a moment to entertain full confidence that my dearest wife has made her peace with God, and is not unprepared for the awful summons! I thank God, I am enabled to submit to His chastisement (too much, alas! deserved) without murmuring, and I humbly hope with resignation, I would say cheerfulness and gratitude, to His holy will. He best knows what is good for us; and if our sufferings here serve in any degree, by rousing us from sloth, and urging us to cleave to Him more closely, to increase the happiness of eternity, well may we exclaim in the triumphant language of the apostle, ‘Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.’”*

*2 Corinthians 4:17

Date: September 30, 1800

Volume 2: Page 380

Posted: 20230322

Reflection 113

On trusting God with his wife’s severe illness, part 1 – in a letter to Hannah More…

“I am unwilling you should learn from any other pen, that it has pleased God to visit my dearest Mrs. Wilberforce with a very dangerous fever. I am told the final issue is not likely to be very speedy, but that from the violence of the outset, I have every reason for apprehension, though not for despair. But oh, my dear friend, what an unspeakable blessing to be able humbly to hope that to my poor wife, death would be a translation from a world of sin and sorrow, to a region of perfect holiness and never-ending happiness! How soothing also to reflect that her sufferings are not only allotted but even measured out by a Being of infinite wisdom and goodness, who loves her, I trust! aye, better than a dear child is loved by an earthly parent. I am sure you will all feel for me, and pray for me, and for my poor dear sufferer.

       “Mr. and Mrs. Henry Thornton are all kindness and consideration for us. I am not sufficiently used to sickbeds, and it is extremely affecting to me to hear her wildness and delirious distresses, and sometimes fancies, mixed with her usual kind looks and gentle acquiescence. May we all be ready, and at length all meet in glory; meanwhile, watch and pray, be sober, be vigilant; strive to enter in, and assuredly we shall not be shut out. I had used to say such words as these, not I hope wholly without meaning; but how much more forcibly are they impressed on the mind by the near view of death to which I am brought! God bless you all. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, be with us all.”

Date: September 27, 1800

Volume 2: Pages 378-379

Posted: 20230316

Reflection 112

On the gospel’s power and promise to revive the weary – hope during an exhausting protracted session of parliament...

Summer was now far advanced, but the House was still sitting, and this long continuance of business greatly exhausted his strength. “I had serious thoughts,” he says, July 23rd, “of attending the assizes this summer, but parliamentary business is not yet quite at an end, and we have sat so late that I shall have but a short time for ‘pruning my feathers and letting grow my wings.’ In truth, both body and mind with me, and understanding too, call for a little quiet after the incessant turmoil and drudgery in which they have been engaged for six or seven months.” “I feel myself a good deal shattered, and reminded of the necessity of more regularity and care than I have of late observed.” “I pant for a little quiet, and I think I feel a more than ordinary languor permanently; however the promises of the gospel fail not, yet whenever I look back upon the little I have hitherto done in life, I long to be more executive in what remains.”

Date: Late July/August 1800

Volume 2: Pages 373-374

Posted: 20230308

Reflection 111

On his sister’s recent marriage…

The marriage of his sister, Mrs. Clarke,* to Mr. Stephen,** had recently occupied his thoughts. “I trust,” he writes, “it will please God to bless the union. Stephen is an improved and improving character, one of those whom religion has transformed, and in whom it has triumphed by conquering some strong natural infirmities. He has talent, great sensibility, and generosity, My chief objection was, that it seemed like my sister’s beginning life again, and going to sea once more in a crazy vessel. However, God is a God of mercy and loving-kindness, and Christ is a tender Master, ever ready to relieve and comfort us.”

*Thomas Clarke (d. 1797), Vicar

**James Stephen, MP and abolitionist 

Date: May 19, 1800

Volume 2: Page 367

Posted: 20230301

Reflection 110

On trusting God in view of increasing scarcity...

The prospect of increasing scarcity* rendered this a gloomy season. “We know not what times are coming on, but if God be for us, who can be against us? Oh may I therefore lay up treasure in heaven, and wait upon the Lord.” “Now that He seems about to try His people, what cause have I to pray, and gird up the loins of my mind! May I grow in grace, and become more ‘meet for the inheritance of the saints in light.’ How amiable is the simple, childlike spirit of Lady Catherine Graham!”** “I have much before me, oh that God would enable me, and move the hearts of others: doubtless I might better hope it, if I were deeply earnest in prayer.”

*Food shortages due mainly to the war with France

**British aristocrat married to Sir James Graham, lawyer and later MP

Date: March 6, April 13, 1800

Volume 2: Pages 359-360

Posted: 20230222

Reflection 109

On standing for Christ and against the world – his hope, resolve, and prayer before returning to parliament and public life…

“Last year,” he says upon the 5th of January, 1800, “has been marked with mercies to me. . . . When I look back upon the time spent here, it seems but a week or two, instead of since the 28th of October; and when I look forward to London life, how do I recoil from it! I humbly hope that I am resolutely determined for Christ, and not solicitous about worldly greatness, wealth, reputation. . . And now that I am on the point of returning to London, I would humbly pray for a large measure of grace to enable me to stand against the world, the flesh, and the devil. I would humbly resolve through the Spirit to live by faith, and to go on diligently, devoutly, humbly, endeavouring to glorify God and benefit my fellow-creatures.”

Date: January 5, 1800

Volume 2: Pages 352-353

Posted: 20230215

Reflection 108

On his plan for a special day with God…

“For some time,” he says, “I have resolved to allot this day to God to spiritual exercises, especially in the way of humiliation. Fasting disqualifies me, God knoweth, for religious communion by disordering my body, so all I can do here is to be very temperate. I am now about, as it seems, . . but let me remember how uncertain are all earthly prospects, . . to spend near four months quietly, compared with my past life; wherein I shall be able to attend to my health, which, next to my soul’s prosperity, it seems right to make my chief object; and at the same time to study a good deal, and cultivate faculties, my neglect of which I number among my very criminal omissions. My objects therefore in this day of solemn supplication and (in my measure) fasting, are to beg God’s guidance and blessing on my endeavours to spend the ensuing interval between this time and the meeting of parliament, piously, usefully, wisely, holily; first, however, humbly imploring pardon for all my past manifold offences, which to be particularly noted, and earnestly supplicating for grace to deliver me from the bondage of my corruptions. Then should come praise and thanksgiving, for the multiplied and prodigious mercies and blessings of God. Then resignation and self-dedication to God, desiring to submit myself to Him to do and suffer His will. Lastly, intercession.

       “To prepare me for all the rest, let me open by earnestly praying to Him to bless me in my present attempts, to chase away from me all evil spirits, and all wandering thoughts and worldly interruptions, and to soften, enlighten, warm, enlarge, and sustain my heart, and my spirits also, that I may not weary in the work, but delight in it, and rejoice in the privilege of spending a day in communion with my God and Saviour.”

Date: October 3, 1799

Volume 2: Pages 351-352

Posted: 20230209

Reflection 107

On regretting not exerting himself more when he was younger, and on God’s grace for accepting us in Christ despite our failings – in a letter to Hannah More…

“Milner and Fraser have been giving me a most serious and forcible lecture on the necessity of taking care of myself, and of living a more quiet life. Now that I experience the necessity of checking myself in my disposition to work, I look back with regret, not unmixed with shame and compunction, on that period of my life when I was more equal to labour, both bodily and mental. What a mercy it is, that with all our sinking sense of unworthiness and unprofitableness, there is a throne of grace to which we may resort with the assured hope of acceptance through faith in a Redeemer! I rejoice in the rapid sale of the book.”

Date: September 4, 1799

Volume 2: Page 345-346

Posted: 20230202

Reflection 106

On the “multiplied mercies of God” – thoughts on the day after his birthday...

“I could not be quiet yesterday,” he says the day after his birth-day, “though I got a contemplative walk, and even to-day I have less time than I could wish for looking back through the year, and awakening pious gratitude for the multiplied mercies of God. How often have I been sick and restored! How few, if any, days of suffering, either bodily or mental! My wife and child going on well, and a daughter born (July 21st) and doing well. Instances repeatedly heard of my book doing good. How gracious is God through Christ, to fill my cup with blessings, yet not to lessen or commute in what is still more important!”

Date: August 25, 1799

Volume 2: Pages 342-343

Posted: 20230125

Reflection 105

On the “never-failing bounty” of God – at the birth of his daughter, in a letter to a friend…

On the “never-failing bounty” of God – at the birth of his daughter, in a letter to a friend…

“Through the abundant mercy of God, I am able to gratify your affectionate solicitude for me and mine by informing you that Mrs. W. has been safely delivered of a daughter, and both mother and infant are doing well. Surely I can never be sufficiently thankful for all the instances I have experienced of the goodness, the never-failing bounty, of my God and Saviour.”

Date: July 27, 1799

Volume 2: Page 342

Posted: 20230118

Reflection 104

On being wholly devoted to God – thoughts at the beginning of a parliamentary recess…

Parliament was prorogued upon the 12th of July, and Mr. Wilberforce retired to the comparative rest of Broomfield. “The recess,” he says, “is beginning. Oh may I spend it well, and try more and more to devote my understanding, and heart, and all my faculties and powers, to the glory of God and Christ, being more and more weaned from vanity, and the love of this world's praise; yet more and more active, useful, indefatigable, adorning the doctrine of God our Saviour. Oh for more gratitude and love.”

Date: July 21, 1799

Volume 2: Page 341

Posted: 20230111

Reflection 103

On illness for recollection, and recollection for reviving the soul…

“June 16th. Taken quite unwell. 19th. Better, but still kept unwillingly from London. Little done—but to-day serious thoughts on loving God and Christ, and prayer—Leighton, &c.” “My frame of mind,” he notes on the following Sunday, “better, I bless God, than for some time past. I hope that the leisure, and season, and space for recollection afforded by my late indisposition, has been the blessed means of reviving what was dead of Christian hope and faith. Yet, oh how languid are they still! What cause have I for earnest prayer, and diligent reading of Scripture, and constant watchfulness and self-examination!”

Date: June 16-23, 1799

Volume 2: Pages 338-339

Posted: 20230105

Reflection 102

On the spiritual state of old friends…

“My heart has been moved,” says his Journal of the following day, “by the society of my old friends at Pitt’s. Alas! alas! how sad to see them thoughtless of their immortal souls; so wise, so acute! I hope I felt in some degree properly on the occasion and afterwards; oh that I might feel more, and act more, and be more useful: may God bless me through Christ.”

Date: May 19, 1799

Volume 2: Page 334

Posted: 20221231

Reflection 101

On the “good effect” of quiet, part 2: enabling self-examination, confession, and humility...

These impressions he was most solicitous to deepen, setting apart from time to time a day for abstinence, and meditation. “Saturday at Broomfield all day. I meant it to be a day devoted to God. The morning serious, by myself, though not so completely as I had wished. I had refused several friends, but Carlyle* came suddenly with offer about Lord Elgin, and compelled to see him.” “I have with some difficulty and management kept this day clear, to be set apart for humiliation and devotion, and such abstinence as my body will bear. I am now about to fall to self-examination, and confession, and humiliation; looking into myself; condemning myself before God, and imploring forgiveness for Christ’s sake. Oh what a terrible array of sins do I behold when I look back!—early renunciation of God; then, many years entirely sinful; then, since the good providence of God drew me forth from this depth of iniquity in the autumn of 1785, how little have I improved and grown in grace! Let me now humble myself, chiefly for forgetfulness of God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit, and invisible things; for ingratitude to God, though loaded with mercies, recalled by sicknesses; . . a thousand gracious providences! I go to prayer, humbly throwing myself on the promised mercies of God in Christ.” “Though, I thank God, I am less sensual than I was, yet I find my heart cold and flat. To-day I received the sacrament, but how dead was I! O God, do Thou enlighten me. May I attain what is real in Christian experience, without running into a sect, or party set of opinions.”

*Rev. I. D. Carlyle, Professor of Arabic at Cambridge, accompanied Lord Elgin in his embassy to Constantinople.

Date: Early May 1799

Volume 2: Pages 333-334

Posted: 20221226

Reflection 100

On the “good effect” of quiet, part 1: refocusing the soul and empowering  godliness…

His health had been unusually delicate this spring. “A serious return,” he told Mr. Hey, “of illness, availing itself of the very severe and cheerless northeastern blasts, has stuck to me more obstinately than usual. This has compelled me to lessen the number of my working hours, and has crowded into them such a multitude of matters, that I have been quite unable to clear my way.” This had enforced a “private resolution,” which he tells Lord Muncaster he “had been forced to form, of giving up the dining system: for the evening is the only time when I can get an hour or two of uninterrupted quiet, and I cannot, like Burgh, extend my working hours at pleasure; expend a copious stream of midnight oil, and then be as fresh the next day as if nothing had happened.” This resolution withdrew him in a measure from general society. “I must be more executive. Dined at home before the House, refusing Pitt to meet old friends.” “I seem to separate quietly from acquaintance.” “Dined at Lord Camden’s, first late dinner for months, to meet Pitt, Lord Chatham, Bishop of Lincoln, Steele, Pepper Arden. Conversation too loose—great successes of the Austrians over the French—Pitt less sanguine than formerly, but hoping that six months will see the thing out.” More than once he mentions in his Journal this comparative “quiet as having had some good effect upon his heart, in enabling him a little to realize unseen things, and live more in the fear of God.” “I have been more able to bridle my passions, and be more meek and gentle, and really full of love.” 

Date: Spring 1799

Volume 2: Pages 332-333

Posted: 20221224

Reflection 99

On the evils of the slave trade and God’s certain judgment, conveyed during his motion for immediate abolition…

Upon the 1st of March Mr. Wilberforce brought forward his motion for immediate Abolition. The sameness of a contest which had lasted for eleven years, was in some degree relieved by the wit of Mr. Canning, and the eloquence of Mr. Pitt and Mr. Wilberforce. Having shown the folly of leaving, as was now proposed, the work of Abolition to colonial legislation, he again brought before the House the evils which its continuance inflicted upon Africa. “The coast of that great continent, for a distance of four thousand miles, is kept by the influence of this trade in the lowest state of darkness, ignorance, and blood. Such has been the effect of intercourse with Europe. For contrary to all experience, the civilization of the interior is three centuries advanced. Yet even there, may be perceived some fatal influence from this deadly traffic. The storm upon the surface stirs slightly even the still depths of ocean.” Again he warned the House not “to provoke the wrath of Heaven by this hardened continuance in acknowledged guilt. I do not mean, sir, that we must expect to see the avenging hand of Providence laid bare in hurricanes and earthquakes; but there is an established order in God's government, a sure connexion between vice and misery, which through the operation of natural causes, works out His will and vindicates His moral government.”

       Though defeated by a majority of 84 to 54, he was convinced that the cause was gaining ground, and set himself to introduce into the system some immediate mitigation of its horrors.

Date: March 1, 1799

Volume 2: Page 330

Posted: 20221219

Reflection 98

On the first day of 1799…

Jan. 1st, 1799. “I meant to-day to be devoted to religious offices, but the House’s meeting prevented more than receiving the sacrament this morning, and a little reading to-night. I am now going to private prayer. What cause have I for humiliation, what room for improvement!”

Date: January 1, 1799

Volume 2: Page 324

Posted: 20221214

Reflection 97

On Christian love, no matter the situation – in review of his conduct and heart during a contentious debate in the House…

The review of these debates in the Journal affords a striking instance of the rigid scrutiny to which he subjected his conduct. Though he had transgressed in no degree the strictest limits of temperate debate, yet he found “causes of humiliation in these last few days. What solicitude about human estimation! (which is perhaps the cause of all the rest.) I humbly hope that I have been schooling myself; but oh how much do I want of that unruffled love which should reign in the heart of the true Christian! This need not, nor I think should it, prevent his actively, and perhaps even warmly, engaging in debate, and reproving vice. But there should be love within, and where that is, it will show itself in outward marks. I hope I feel no ill-will to any, and I pray and strive against it. Oh what are the little reproaches and assaults I encounter, compared with those under which Stephen could say, ‘Lord, lay not this sin to their charge,’ and, ‘Father, forgive them!’ Let me strive to grow in humility, in disesteem and disrelish of worldly estimation, and in love. In what a fermentation of spirits was I on the night of answering Courtenay! How jealous of character and greedy of applause! Alas! alas! Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

Date: December 23, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 322-323

Posted: 20221211

Reflection 96

On the stewardship of health, after recovering from illness…

A severe attack of indisposition confined him to the house at the commencement of the session; but by the 25th of November he was nearly in his usual health. “My feeling, when so ill on Wednesday morning, was, that I had not been active enough in the cause of God: oh let me now employ with greater diligence the powers which he has restored.”

Date: November 25, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 319

Posted: 20221208

Reflection 95

On recognizing God’s blessings on England – in a letter to a friend…

“I am scribbling amidst interruption and must conclude; yet not without one word of humble acknowledgment of the goodness of God in our late naval successes. I think Lord Nelson’s letter has produced a disposition to speak more of Providence. May it have the effect of helping to awaken to recollection a people loaded with blessings.”

Date: November 19, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 319

Posted: 20221206

Reflection 94

On the need for a school “for the religious instruction of such as choose to send their children” – in a letter to a friend…

“While a nation preserves a general reverence for the opinions and institutions of its forefathers, even though the bulk of the people are not under any deep impressions of piety, the rising generation is always educated with a prejudice in favour of the religion of the country, and with a disposition to befriend and maintain it. Then it may be thought the state may leave it to the people in general to bring up their own children as they will. But now, when I fear infidelity has made such deep inroads into our middle classes, and when the nature of our constitution, in addition to the levelling doctrines of our day, speedily diffuses throughout the whole community the sentiments and habits of the higher orders; I fear, if we leave it to the lower orders in general to educate their own children, they will receive little or no education at all—little prepossession in favour of Christianity, or disposition to stand up for it; and when these no longer exist, the vantage ground of our clergy is taken away from them.”

Date: August 28, 1798

Volume 2: Page 310

Posted: 20221130

Reflection 93

On counting the cost of discipleship – his response to a sermon on Luke 14:28…

“Sunday, Sept. 2nd. How excellent a sermon has Venn been preaching upon Luke xiv. 28*—counting the cost if we profess to be Christians. It affected my heart—it humbled me in the dust. My days pass away in hurry, yet I do not think it right to go upon the retired plan. Oh may I wait on God diligently! He will then level hills and fill up plains before me.”

*For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? (KJV)

Date: September 2, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 307

Posted: 20221127

Reflection 92

On his generosity, by way of Providence and discipline...

“Never distress yourself, my dear Mary,” he wrote this summer to another correspondent, “on the ground of my being put to expense on account of yourself, or your near relatives; you give what is far more valuable than money—time, thought, serious, active, affectionate, persevering attention; and as it has pleased God of His good providence to bless me with affluence, and to give me the power, and I hope the heart, to assist those who are less gifted with the good things of this life, how can I employ them more properly than on near relations, and when I strengthen your hands, who are always endeavouring to serve their best interest. You may say to ––, that on your account, I am willing to take the charge of Charles’s education for two or three years.”

       The sums which, as “a good steward,” he thus dispensed to those who needed, formed a large portion of his annual income. As a young man, he had been charitable from the natural impulses of a generous spirit… But his conduct was no sooner regulated by higher principles than he determined to allot a fixed proportion of his income (obtained often by personal self-denial in small things) to works of charity. Before his marriage, at least one-fourth of it was so employed; and in this year the record still remaining (and it is incomplete) accounts for more than £2000. Some of the particular entries show the hidden channels in which his bounty flowed, cheering many hearts who never knew their benefactor. Besides regular almoners for the distribution of small sums… he was in the habit of relieving through many others the distress which came under their observation.

Date: August 24, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 302-303

Posted: 20221123

Reflection 91

On dependence on God – helpless at his wife’s illness, grateful at her healing, and hopeful for God’s continued renewing work in his life…

“My dear wife,” he notes a few days later, “is now ill. How dependent does this make me feel upon the power and goodness of God! What a humbling impression have I of my own inability; that all my happiness, and all that belongs to me, is at the disposal of the Supreme Being! So it ought always to be. This is ‘to walk softly.’ I see as usual the kind hand of a gracious God, disposing little incidents with a favouring kindness. Whatever may be God’s will now, may I submit with humble, acquiescing confidence. I have been far too little careful to improve the opportunities of usefulness afforded by my situation in married life. May I be enabled to do better; and if God should give me an offspring, may I bring it up in His faith, and fear, and love, as a Christian should be educated to go through such a world as this.” “Oh what abundant cause have I for gratitude,” he says the following week: “how well all has gone on, both with mother and child! I will take a musing walk of gratitude and intercession. How full of mercies is God to me, and how void am I of gratitude! How little desirous of diffusing the happiness so freely given to me! Oh may I still feel more the weight of my burthen, charging it on myself and pressing it home; placing myself in Christ’s sight, in that of angels, and spirits of just men made perfect. O Lord, renew me; let this corruption put on incorruption, even here in heart, and bring forth the graces of the Spirit.”

Date: July 21, 29; August 5, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 296-297

Posted: 20221117

Reflection 90

On true Christianity – the necessities of endeavoring to walk aright and entreating God for the aid to do so…

Had a delightful contemplative evening walk in Burleigh park. I have felt this day, I hope, in some degree rightly disposed; but oh let me not confound occasional feelings with being a true Christian. And yet, O Lord, I would resolutely endeavour to walk worthy of my high and holy calling. O enlighten my ignorance, purify my corruptions, warm my coldness, and fix my volatility. Oh may my mother’s death impress me! May I crucify the flesh. What manifold mercies have I received. God has remarkably prospered me on my way; He seems to give me present encouragement for obeying Him.

Date: July 8, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 295-296

Posted: 20221108

Reflection 89

On his response to God’s grace, mercy, and loving-kindness – in a letter to his wife, while on his way back from his mother’s funeral… 

While he was here* engaged with “books, letters, a little dictating, and many friends,” he received an account of the illness, and by the next post of the death, of his aged mother. Unwillingly leaving Mrs. Wilberforce, who was on the eve of her first confinement, he set off immediately for Hull, to attend his mother’s funeral. “You will join with me,” he writes to Mrs. Wilberforce from Stamford on his return to Broomfield, “in thanking God for His goodness in having thus far protected me on my way… I have a pleasure in the idea of halting, and spending a quiet day in blessing and praising that gracious Being, who to me has been rich in mercy, and abundant in loving-kindness. Oh that I were more warmly thankful and more zealously active!”

*Broomfield, for the summer 

Date: July 7, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 294-295

Posted: 20221102

Reflection 88

On his response to his wife’s illness… 

“Surely,” he writes during a sharp attack of illness with which Mrs. Wilberforce was visited, “God is punishing me for a feeling of exultation. ‘I said in my prosperity, I shall never be moved. Thou, Lord, of Thy goodness hast made my hill so strong. Thou didst turn away Thy face, and I was troubled.’ How uncertain are all human things! I hope I feel some Christian resignation, and holy reliance on the mercy and goodness of God and my Saviour.”

Date: June 24, 1798

Volume 2: Page 294

Posted: 20221030

Reflection 87

On planning for productivity – at the outset of the 1798 parliamentary prorogue… 

“Parliament was prorogued upon the 29th of June, and Mr. Wilberforce immediately established himself at Broomfield for the summer. “My situation here,” he says, “though so comfortable, will require much watchfulness, and plan, and circumspection, or my time will be frittered away, my usefulness abridged, and my soul unspiritualized. I will consider well how to turn it to the best account, and form my plan deliberately, with prayer for wisdom and for strength to keep my resolutions. My wife’s health absolutely requires a villa. A plan of study and an arrangement of time to be formed, and the business of the recess to be chalked out. Oh what cause have I for shame, comparing myself with my advantages and mercies.” “To try this recess at six hours between breakfast and dinner, and two hours before breakfast for thought and real business.”

Date: Late June 1798

Volume 2: Pages 293-294

Posted: 20221006

Reflection 86

On the responsibility of recommending ecclesiastical leadership – in a letter to Sir Christopher Sykes... 

“As the influence any man possesses, and his opportunities of usefulness, are all so many trusts for the employment of which he will hereafter have to give account, so there are no opportunities of usefulness which are trusts from their very nature more weighty and important than the power of recommending to any ecclesiastical preferment which has the care of souls. To speak seriously, and otherwise I can scarcely do justice to the argument, the number of the individuals who may be rescued from eternal misery and brought to the enjoyment of eternal happiness, and the degree of the eternal happiness even of the happy, must, humanly speaking, depend on the minister set over the parish to which they belong. Therefore, I am bound to remember, in the disposal of any living, (whether by my own presenting to it directly, or by using my influence with the patron,) that the interest the parishioners have in the nomination is that of as many persons as the parish consists of, and is of an everlasting, infinite value; that which the clergyman to be presented to it has in it is the temporal interest of one individual. It follows of course, that I must attend to the two following principles in my recommendations to church preferment. 1st, That of naming the man whom in my conscience I believe, on the whole, likely to do most good in the station to be filled; and 2ndly, That of endeavouring to employ my influence, so as that any given measure of it may be productive of the utmost possible benefit… In selecting a minister for any living it is not enough to know that he is diligent and exemplary in his conduct, nor yet that his talents, knowledge, and manner of officiating are every thing that one could wish, but I must ask, what are his doctrines?”

Date: June 16, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 288-290

Posted: 20220928

Reflection 85

On his temper in the House – a reason for humiliation, and a reason for rejoicing at the difference Christ makes in dealing with it!  

“What cause have I for humiliation,” are his secret reflections on Sunday the 27th, “in my temper in the House of Commons on Friday evening, when Pitt greatly provoked me, by intervening between me and Lushington, and putting off the Slave-carrying Bill. Alas, love how cold in me! I was near resenting it upon the spot. I now am thankful that I did not. God, how full of mercies hast Thou been to me!” “How little” (he continues, Sunday, June 17th) “did 1 think that Pitt’s conduct, which, poor fellow, made him mortify me, would draw him, as it did, into the scrape which produced his duel, which took place on the very day (of my former entry) at three o’clock. How thankful for Christianity to soothe my angry spirit! and with what pleasure did I look back during that Sunday on my conduct in making it up with him without show on that same day!”

Date: May-June 1798

Volume 2: Pages 286-287

Posted: 20220920

Reflection 84

On obeying God and cultivating His favor: the principle that caused him to give up his motion on dueling – in a letter to Pitt… 

“My dear Pitt,

I scarcely need assure you that I have given the most serious and impartial consideration to the question, whether to persist in bringing forward my intended motion or to relinquish it. My own opinion as to the propriety of it in itself, remains unaltered. But being also convinced that it would be productive on the whole of more practical harm than practical good, and that it would probably rather impair than advance the credit of that great principle which I wish chiefly to keep in view, (I mean the duty of obeying the Supreme Being, and cultivating His favour,) I have resolved to give it up; and when thus resolved, I cannot hesitate a moment in sending you word of my determination…”

Date: June 2, 1798

Volume 2: Page 283

Posted: 20220907

Reflection 83

On the blessings of Providence, including good work that wearies, and an eternal perspective within it – in a letter to his sister…

“The cause of my long silence,” he tells his sister, “has been really, as I believe, my having been more than even commonly busy. . . . How fast time and life too rolls away! It seems but a span since we were together at Hull; and more than six months have since gone over our heads. My hours have passed pleasantly; greatly indeed have I reason to be thankful for the signal blessing which Providence last year conferred upon me. My dearest wife bears my hurrying way of life with great sweetness; but it would be a sort of gaol [jail] delivery to her no less than to myself to escape from the tumult of this bustling town, and retire to the enjoyment of country scenes and country occupations. But I am well aware that it is not right for me to indulge in such reveries. My business is cut out for me, and Providence has graciously blessed me with the means of being cheered under it; which means I should do wrong to pervert into a source of indolent self-enjoyment, flinching from my collar and refusing to draw my load because a little weary of being in the harness. At all times in which one feels this sense of weariness, and longs for quietness and peace, one should endeavour to make it subservient to the purpose of raising one’s mind heavenward, and of establishing a practical feeling of the vanity and transitoriness of all human things, and of this life being but a passage, and our home that ‘rest that remaineth for the people of God.’”

Date: March 9, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 276–277

Posted: 20220828

Reflection 82

On the challenge of maintaining Christian discipline and character in the busyness of life, and his resolve to do so, part 2…

“I feel a firm confidence, that if through God’s grace I am enabled to keep close to Him in love, fear, trust, and obedience, I shall go on well; most likely even in this life, being perhaps remarkably preserved from evil; but at all events I shall be supported under whatever may be laid upon me. These are days in which I should especially strive to grow in preparedness for changing worlds, and for whatever sharp trials I may be called to. Oh what humiliation becomes me when I think of my innumerable mercies!” “I resolve to be up in time to have an hour before breakfast for serious meditation, prayer, and Scripture preparation for these dangerous times; also more time for unbroken thought; half or three-quarters of an hour on parliamentary topics.”

“This week I have got more morning time for serious reading and reflection. I have now been taking a musing walk, and, alas, what cause do I find for humiliation! During the ensuing week if M. be with us, as it is likely, I shall be subject to several temptations as heretofore. Let me now resolve to keep earlier hours; not curtail evening prayer; turn the conversation to profitable and rational topics; be meek, and gentle, and humble, and kind. How much I owe him!”

Date: February-April 1798

Volume 2: Pages 274-276

Posted: 20220821

Reflection 81

On the challenge of maintaining Christian discipline and character in the busyness of life, and his resolve to do so, part 1…

       “This last hurrying week has kept and now leaves my soul in a sad state. How little does my heart seem to have its affections above! I doubt about giving up much of this raffled hurrying system. May God for Christ’s sake guide and support me. Last week, angry from pride at Pitt and the Speaker—vain in regard to Belsham’s letter. Oh what a multitude of mercies have I to be thankful for! Compare my lot with K.’s.” [fn. Diary, Feb. 25]

       “This last week, in which I hoped so much to be done, has gone by, and how little got through! And though my affections this day are a good deal called forth, how little have I of late been under the influence of real Christian tempers! How sadly defective am I in humility! When I look into myself I find myself poor indeed compared with my highly-favoured state; but how little do I feel this habitually! How fond am I of distinction (my constitutional vice)! This would not be, if I was truly humble within, at the core. Here meditation daily, or as frequent as might be, would do much. Let me try for it. Oh may this day be of lasting service to me! and at this time, when probably war and tumult are at hand, may I serve God and fear nothing. May I boldly walk in the might of the Lord, and sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land. May I grow in humility, peace, and love, in meekness, holy courage, self-denial, active exertion, and discreet zeal.”

Date: February-April 1798

Volume 2: Pages 274-276

Posted: 20220809

Reflection 80

On Sundays as a bulwark against worldly influence…

“I am much disturbed between a sense of the necessity of not giving up the world, and the evil effects from my present great intercourse with it both to my heart and understanding.” [fn. Feb 18] “Many doubts about company, whether I ought not in great measure to give it up.” The secret of his maintaining an untainted spirit in this full bustle of worldly distractions may be found in the motive from which alone he mixed in them, and in the habits of self-communing which he carefully maintained. The perfect rest of succeeding Sundays… “I feel the comfort of Sunday very sensibly today.” [fn. May 20] “Oh it is a blessed thing to have the Sunday devoted to God” [fn. Sept 30] …was of great service to him here; and the full entries of his Journal are a searching review of his conduct and spirit through the week.

Note: As can be seen by the bracketed footnotes, Robert interpolates entries from later in the year.

Date: February 18, 1798

Volume 2: Page 274

Posted: 20220731

Reflection 79

On God’s providence, in view of difficulties faced by the Sierra Leone Company…

“We have been,” he writes to the governor, “what we call unfortunate in having our ships so often captured, &c.; but we are a little prone (perhaps not a little) to expect to be secured by Providence against the common accidents to which human beings are liable, when engaged in works of piety and charity. It should cure us of this erroneous estimate of things to recollect that St. Paul, in recapitulating his sufferings, not only enumerates stoning and the malice of men, but ‘thrice was I shipwrecked, a night and a day have I been in the deep.’ In short. Providence seemed to fight against him, as well as a world which was not worthy of him.”

Date: Early 1798

Volume 2: Page 271

Posted: 20220726

Reflection 78

On some practical aspects of devotion to God – closing exhortations in a letter to his friend William Smith, MP…

“I have been drawn into much greater length than I was aware of, and still I have but expressed a tenth of what I teem with. But I must lay down my pen, only let me add what I said in my former letter. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, set your affections on things above; ask wisdom of God humbly and perseveringly, and read the Scriptures with a practical rather than a critical spirit. All this is right on your scheme of religion as well as on mine. Perhaps if you go on this plan we may not differ so much in religious matters. But I am running on again. Farewell, then. We will now and then exchange letters, and when you come to town, if you dislike it not, we will talk over all these things at some vacant hour…”

Date: February 20, 1798

Volume 2: Page 270

Posted: 20220720

Reflection 77

On his method of self-examination for attempting to understand and relate to his opponents, while maintaining his own views, including speaking out when necessary – in a letter to a friend…

“I think you are right, my dear William [Smith, MP and abolitionist], in proposing that we should keep up a more frequent intercourse, and in the effect likely to be produced by it on both our minds. And yet I must frankly say that you wrong me when you state that I have asperities against the opposition. It is occasionally part of my Sunday’s occupation to look into the state of my heart in this relation, and to discipline it in a way which might seem almost too mechanical to any one who had not considered sufficiently the structure and workings of the human mind. I impress on myself the uncertainty of all political opinions, and how often different practical judgments in persons who agree in abstract principles arise from differences as to matters of fact, and as to the credit they give respectively to different sources of intelligence. Then I put myself in the situation of an opposition man, and call up the ideas, with their proper apparel and in their several bearings, which present themselves to his mental eye. Then I consider how naturally the opposition men are irritated by constant failure, and by their feeling that they and theirs are suffering, and likely to suffer, from what they conceive to be incapacity or wicked intentions, which they have in vain been striving to counteract. Above all, I view the several leading men in connexion with religious topics. I consider their sad state, till I truly feel for them; and this it is impossible to do without emotions of cordial good-will rising up into action. I trust I can sincerely declare, that I sometimes look at them thus (and something of these sensations I experience at this very moment) with emotions of enlarged and unmixed affection. Now this process tends to leave my mind softened and warmed towards them. But it does not alter my views of the consequences of their measures, or of the necessity of warning the public of what appears to me (speaking in the presence of God) the urgent duty of counteracting their hostile attempts against the present government.”

Date: February 20, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 267-268

Posted: 20220714

Reflection 76

On the necessity of openness for friendship, and a recognition of friendship’s limitations (namely, contra God and conscience), in a letter to Mr. James Stephen, lawyer and friend…

Note: Mr. Stephen had privately rebuked Wilberforce for not publicly denouncing a certain pro-slavery measure, although Wilberforce’s “private remonstrances with the minister succeeded after a time in stopping the objectionable plan” (265).

“Go on, my dear sir,” is Mr. Wilberforce’s answer, “and welcome. Believe me, I wish you not to abate any thing of the force or frankness of your animadversions. I have not yet had the opportunity of deliberately and fully questioning myself on the charge you have brought, but I mean to enter into as impartial a self-examination as I am able on that head, and then I may perhaps call upon you to justify. For your frankness however I feel myself obliged. Openness is the only foundation and preservative of friendship, and though by it I have lost some friends, or I should rather say have discovered that I never possessed them, yet it has cemented and attached me still more closely to the two best I have in the world. Let me therefore claim from you at all times your undisguised opinions. I promise on my part as impartial a deliberation as I am able to exercise, and I hope if I am convinced I shall be able to act up to my convictions. I will even concede that I ought studiously to guard against a bias to which I am liable, if not from personal connexion, yet from an apprehension of mischief from weakening government, and strengthening the hands of opposition. Nothing is more useful to any man acting in situations and matters complicated in their relations and bearings, and in which the passions may creep in, than to talk things over with a man of sense, who lives with a different set, and has different prejudices and attachments. May I be able to act with fidelity in my important station, and be more solicitous to acquit myself to God and my own conscience, than to my fellow-creatures.”

Date: Spring 1798

Volume 2: Pages 265-266

Posted: 20220706

Reflection 75

On gratitude for undeserved blessings – in a letter to his wife…

To Mrs. Wilberforce who remained in Palace Yard, he writes at the same time, “Let us endeavour to feel that gratitude which the goodness we have experienced should inspire. When I compare my lot with that of almost every other member of parliament whom I know, what singular blessings have been vouchsafed me! I was careless, dissipated, ardent in pursuit of reputation, and by this time, but for religion, should have been a prey to the workings of ambition. Why am I taken and another left? . . . . It quite grieves me for your sake, to have but a poor account to render of myself. I had a sad night again, and in consequence am far from well to-day; but He who had not where to lay His head, had doubtless sleepless nights and languid days, as I have,” &c.

Date: Late January 1798

Volume 2: Page 255

Posted: 20220703

Reflection 74

On Christmas recess at Bath – worn by the crowds, refreshed by solitude, church, and Scripture…

The Christmas recess was spent by him at Bath, where he complains that his “time was frittered away in calls and dining out. Let me try to get more time for meditation and Scripture. I have read barely a chapter each day through this hurrying week. Dining out every day has a bad effect on the mind; I will try to dine at home, at least once, and if I can twice every week.” “Entire solitude I find a different thing from even being with my wife only; it seems to give me over more entirely to the power, and throw me more absolutely upon the mercy, of God. Oh what cause have I for gratitude! but my heart has been cold—it is overgrown with weeds; may God enable me at this crowded place to live to His glory.” 

“This morning I thought I felt some of the powers of the world to come when I went to church. G. broke in upon my walk intended for meditation. I have found this week the benefit of reading Scripture almost daily.”

Date: January 14, 28, 1798

Volume 2: Pages 254-255

Posted: 20220629

Reflection 73

On 1797 – reviewing God’s many mercies on the penultimate day of the year…

“I may be indispensably occupied to-morrow, (December 31st,) so let me now look back on the

past year, and bless God for its many mercies. Oh how wonderful are His ways! An eventful year with me—my book—my marriage—health restored in sickness. How ungrateful have I been, and how often tempting God to withdraw from me! But His mercy endureth for ever; and the vilest, prostrating himself before Him with penitence and faith in the blood of Jesus, may obtain remission of his sins, and the Spirit of renewing grace. This is my hope—here I rest my foot. Friends died this year—Eliot—Dr. Clarke—Joseph Milner. I still spared. How strongly do these events teach us that the time is short! Oh! may I learn and be wise. Public events—mutiny terminated—Dutch victory. I will go to pray, and humble myself before God. The lessons I have learned of my defects teach me to strive earnestly against pride; inordinate love of the favour of man; every feeling of malice; selfishness in not judging fairly between others and myself; above all, earthly-mindedness, not having my mind raised above the region of storms. May I learn wisdom and watchfulness from past falls, and so grow in grace. Oh what a blessed thing is the Sunday for giving us an opportunity of serious self-examination, retrospect, and drawing water out of the wells of salvation!”

Date: December 30, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 253-254

Posted: 20220626

Reflection 72

On Abolition – a charge to work hard and trust God, in a letter to a friend and fellow abolitionist…

“Though I have been quietly at church,” he says, noting his state of feelings on the 18th of December, “and not in the cavalcade, yet how little has my heart joined in the prayers of the day! How little am I impressed as I ought to be with a sense of heavenly things! and yet I hope I am labouring after them, and striving to raise my mind. I go to prayer, to bless God for his mercies; and I will enumerate several:—Public and political blessings;—His kindnesses to myself personally. I will pray to Him for my country, and for wisdom for myself, to teach me how to act. Oh may the resolution to live for His glory be uppermost in my soul, and may I learn a holy resignation to His will; endeavouring to work whilst it is day, and yet to be easy, cheerful, disinterested, composed, and happy, enjoying the peace of God.”

Date: December 18, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 252-253

Posted: 20220622

Reflection 71

On judging his behavior in the House – feeling shame and finding restoration through repentance… 

“Dec. 30th. House very late on Assessed Taxes. I sparred with Pitt, and he negatived several exempting clauses. I much cut, and angry.” “Alas! alas!” is his reflection on the following day, “with what shame ought I to look at myself! What conflicting passions yesterday in the House of Commons—mortification—anger—resentment, from such conduct in Pitt; though I ought to expect it from him, and can well bear with his faults towards God—all these feelings working with anger at myself, from the consciousness that I was not what a Christian should be. Oh what a troubled state! When I got home I prayed to God, and looked to Him for help through Christ, and have in some measure found my heart restored to peace and love, to reconciliation, (which in the House was but hollow I fear,) and to a desire of returning good for evil, of being above the little slights and rufflements of this life, looking upwards and forwards. Yet even still I find my heart disposed to harbour angry thoughts. I have found the golden rule useful in quieting my mind—putting myself in Pitt’s place, &c. May this teach me to know myself, to walk more watchfully, to seek more earnestly for strength, help, and peace, and love, and the meekness and gentleness of Christ. Oh may God guide me.”

Date: December 30-31, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 250-251

Posted: 20220619

Reflection 70

On “the most important of all pursuits” in “stormy and turbulent” times – in a letter to Lord Muncaster…

“I look forward with awe, but without dismay. I cannot believe we shall be cut off. Scourged, and severely too, we deserve to be. Even yet there is no recognition of the providence of God. I well remember your pointing out to me last year, the first lesson for Sunday sennight [a week] last. [fn. Jer. 5 or 22] It struck me forcibly this season. Blessed be God, there is a secure and unchangeable portion reserved for those who diligently and humbly seek for it. May we, my dear friend, be incited to renewed alacrity in this most important of all pursuits, by the stormy and turbulent state of worldly affairs.”

Date: September 27, 1797

Volume 2: Page 237

Posted: 20220615

Reflection 69

On responding to blessing and perseverance in work – in a letter to Mr. Macaulay… 

“My cup was before teeming with mercies,” he himself tells Mr. Macaulay, “and it has at length pleased God to add the only ingredient almost which was wanting to its fulness. In this instance, as in many others, His goodness has exceeded my utmost expectations, and I ought with renewed alacrity and increased gratitude to devote myself to the service of my munificent Benefactor…

“Every one is to remain and do his Lord’s work in that state in which he was called; and so I fall to work again, though, I own, mine is one of the last trades which I should have selected. But life will soon be over, and we are assured that no situation presents temptations which the grace of God cannot and will not enable us to resist, if we diligently seek it.”

Date: September 20, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 232-233, 233-234

Posted: 20220612

Reflection 68

On his birthday – humbled, grateful, and confident in God to bless, grow, and use him… 

I wish I could have a recluse, devotional, thinking birthday, but that is impossible. On its return I have the utmost cause for self-humiliation, for gratitude, for grateful confidence, for earnest breathings after usefulness. I have no time to write, but let me use the few minutes I have in praying to God in Christ, the Author of my mercies, beseeching Him to hear me, to fill me with spiritual blessings, and enable me to live to His glory. My marriage and the publication of my book are the great events of the past year. In both I see much to humble me, and to fill my mouth with praises. Let me resign myself to God, who has hitherto led me by ways that I knew not, and implore Him yet to bless me.

Date: August 24, 1797

Volume 2: Page 232

Posted: 20220608

Reflection 67

On God’s justice and love, in view of slavery – in a letter to a friend…

Many thanks for your kind letter. Your intelligence however respecting the Slave Trade has really moved me so much that I can scarcely turn to any other subject with proper composure. Surely Providence will not suffer such wickedness and cruelty to go on unavenged. One is strongly tempted to wish not merely that the sufferings of the Africans may cease, but that some signal mark of the Divine displeasure may desolate those abhorred islands. However, we are to bear in mind that “the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God,” and strive to retain that spirit of love which should bleed for the offender while it prevents or punishes the offence.

Date: August 26, 1797

Volume 2: Page 228

Posted: 20220605

Reflection 66

On the value of Christlike models, including an allusion to 1 Corinthians 11:1… 

Saturday. Simeon* with us—his heart glowing with love of Christ. How full he is of love, and of desire to promote the spiritual benefit of others! Oh that I might copy him, as he Christ! My path is indeed difficult, and full of enemies. But God in Christ can and will strengthen and uphold us if we trust in Him.

*Probably Charles Simeon (1759-1836)

Date: July 22, 1797

Volume 2: Page 226

Posted: 20220601

Reflection 65

On his renewed commitment to live for God’s glory, a personal resolution coupled with prayerful reliance on God…

“Let me now,” he says on his return to London, “commence a new era, guarding cautiously against all infirmities to which I am personally, or from circumstances, liable; and endeavouring to cultivate all opportunities. I go to prayer; may the grace of God give me repentance. Fix, O Lord, my natural volatility; let not Satan destroy or impair these impressions. I fall down before the cross of Christ, and would there implore pardon and find grace to help in this time of need. Let me use diligently and prudently to Thy glory all the powers and faculties Thou hast given me. Let me exhibit a bright specimen of the Christian character, and adorn the doctrine of God my Saviour in all things. Let me go forth remembering the vows of God which are upon me; remembering that all eyes will be surveying me from my book, my marriage,* &c.; that my political station is most important, my means of doing good numerous and great; my cup full of blessings, spiritual above all. The times how critical! Death perhaps at hand. May God be with me for Christ’s sake.”

*Wilberforce was married to Barbara Ann Spooner on May 30, 1797.

Date: June 3, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 221-222

Posted: 20220529

Reflection 64

On “God’s providential care and kindness,” kindling worship and hope – in a letter and in his journal… 

“You have heard me say,” he writes again a few days later [to Barbara Spooner], “that I am no predestinarian, and it is certainly true; yet when I review the incidents of my past life, and observe how God ‘has led me by a way which I knew not,’ has supported me when weak, has raised me when fallen, has brought me out of darkness into light, has kept me from forming a connexion where it would have proved too surely a clog and a restraint to me, and has at length disposed our hearts mutually to each other; when I see these and ten thousand other such things, (many of them you will like to hear,) I can only lift up my hands and eyes in silent adoration, and recognise the providence of God disposing all things according to the counsel of His own will; and graciously recompensing the very feeblest endeavours to please and serve Him.”

“On looking back to my past life I see many instances, some greater, some smaller, of God’s providential care and kindness. These infuse into me a humble hope that, though public affairs wear a most gloomy aspect, yet I shall be rescued from future evils, and shall be a specimen of His undeserved grace and kindness to those that humbly look up to Him. It would to some seem superstitious to note how good God has been to me in a variety of little instances (preserving me from evil, from discredit, &c.) as well as in more important cases.”

Date: May 5, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 216-217

Posted: 20220525

Reflection 63

On his singleness and a sudden change in outlook at meeting Barbara Spooner…

“I doubt,” he had written to a friend six months before, “if I shall ever change my situation; the state of public affairs concurs with other causes in making me believe ‘I must finish my journey alone.’ I much differ from you in thinking that a man such as I am has no reason to apprehend some violent death or other. I do assure you that in my own case I think it highly probable. Then consider how extremely I am occupied. What should I have done had I been a family-man for the last three weeks, worried from morning to night? But I must not think of such matters now, it makes me feel my solitary state too sensibly. Yet this state has some advantages; it makes me feel I am not at home, and impresses on me the duty of looking for and hastening to a better country.” But his sentiments had now undergone a considerable change. At Bath he had formed the acquaintance of one whom he judged well fitted to be his companion through life, and towards whom he contracted a strong attachment. “Jacta est alea” [the die is cast] he says upon receiving her favourable answer, [fn. Journal. Tuesday, April 23] “I believe indeed she is admirably suited to me, and there are many circumstances which seem to advise the step. I trust God will bless me; I go to pray to Him. I believe her to be a real Christian, affectionate, sensible, rational in habits, moderate in desires and pursuits; capable of bearing prosperity without intoxication, and adversity without repining. If I have been precipitate, forgive me, O God. But if as I trust we shall both love and fear and serve Thee, Thou wilt bless us according to Thy sure word of promise.” 

Date: c. October 1796, April 23, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 214-215

Posted: 20220522

Reflection 62

On the secret to his self-possession, including meditation on Christ, examination of self, and prayerful dependence – journal entries on Good Friday and Easter, part 2…

“I would now in prayer (which I set down for my own memory) lament the chief sins of all my life, and carefully examine myself with penitence.—Good Friday employment—Look back on the mercies of God through life. Oh how numerous, and how freely bestowed! Try Quintilian’s plan (Phantasia) as to Christ’s crucifixion. Pray for pardon, acceptance, holiness, peace; for courage, humility, and all that I chiefly want; for love and heavenly-mindedness. Pray to be guided aright respecting my domestic choice, &c. Pray for my country both in temporal and spiritual things. Pray for political wisdom ; for the success of my book just come out; for the poor slaves; for the Abolition; for Sierra Leone; for the success of missions. Think over my enemies with forgiveness and love, over my friends and acquaintances, and pray for both. In the evening make launchers, and think how I may do good to my acquaintances and friends, and pray for wisdom here.” “I humbly bless God that I have enjoyed this morning a very large degree of internal comfort, and that my heart has been tender; but I fear animal transport and emotion. But what a solid satisfaction is it to reflect that our ascended Lord views us with a pitying and sympathetic eye; that He knows what it is to have a feeling of our infirmities; that He promises, and He is truth as well as love, that they who wait on Him shall renew their strength! What a blessed Sunday have I been permitted to spend!”

Date: April 14, 16, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 208-210

Posted: 20220518

Reflection 61

On the secret to his self-possession, including meditation on Christ, examination of self, and prayerful dependence – journal entries on Good Friday and Easter, part 1…

Amidst these circumstances [the popularity of his book] his sobriety of mind remained unshaken. “I was much struck,” says a friend who was with him whilst at Bath, “with his entire simplicity of manners. The place was very full; the sensation which his work produced drew upon him much observation, but he seemed neither flattered nor embarrassed by the interest he excited.” The secret of this easy self-possession may be read in the entries of his private Journal. “Bath, April 14th, three o’clock. Good Friday. I thank God that I now do feel in some degree as I ought this day. I trust that I feel true humiliation of soul from a sense of my own extreme unworthiness; a humble hope in the favour of God in Christ; some emotion from the contemplation of Him who at this very moment was hanging on the cross; some shame at the multiplied mercies I enjoy; some desire to devote myself to Him who has so dearly bought me; some degree of that universal love and good-will, which the sight of Christ crucified is calculated to inspire. Oh if the contemplation here can produce these effects on my hard heart, what will the vision of Christ in glory produce hereafter! I feel something of pity too for a thoughtless world; and oh what gratitude is justly due from me (the vilest of sinners, when compared with the mercies I have received) who have been brought from darkness into light, and I trust from the pursuit of earthly things to the prime love of things above! Oh purify my heart still more by Thy grace. Quicken my dead soul, and purify me by Thy Spirit, that I may be changed from glory to glory, and be made even here in some degree to resemble my heavenly Father.”

Date: April 14, 16, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 208-210

Posted: 20220515

Reflection 60

On Wilberforce’s book – comments and commendations from John Newton…

My very dear Sir,

       I can converse with you as often as I please by your late publication, which I have now read through with increasing satisfaction a third time. I mean not to praise you, but I must and will praise the Lord for your book, which I cannot doubt will be accompanied by a Divine blessing and productive of happy effects. I hope it will be useful to me, and of course to those who attend on my ministry. I have been near fifty years in the Lord's school: during this space He has graciously taught me many things of which I was once no less ignorant than the beasts of the field. He has made me a debtor to many ministers, and to many books, but still I had something to learn from your book. You have not only confirmed but enlarged my views of several important points. One thing strikes me much, and excites my praise to the Lord on your behalf, that a gentleman in your line of life, harassed with a multiplicity of business and surrounded on all sides with snares, could venture to publish such a book, without fearing a retort either from the many friends or the many enemies amongst whom you have moved so many years. The power of the Lord in your favour seems to be little less remarkable than in the three young men who lived unhurt and unsinged in the midst of the fire, or of Daniel, who sat in peace in the den when surrounded by liens. It plainly shows that His grace is all-sufficient to keep us in any situation which His providence appoints us.

       I believe I must in future alter the tone of my quarterly payments, if I continue to make them. Though I have long been well satisfied that the Lord had in mercy set you apart for Himself, yet I thought an occasional hint of the dangers to which you were exposed might not be unseasonable. But now I shall be glad to look to you (at least to your book) for cautions against the evils that beset my own path, and for considerations to strengthen my motives for running the uncertain remainder of my race with alacrity. May the wisdom and power of the Most High guide, strengthen, and protect you.

John Newton

Date: June 7, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 206-207

Posted: 20220511

Reflection 59

On his concern with consistency between his book and his life…

“How careful ought I to be,” was his own reflection, “that I may not disgust men by an inconsistency between the picture of a Christian which I draw, and which I exhibit! How else can I expect the blessing of God on my book? May His grace quicken me.” “That he acted up,” is the judgment of a shrewd observer [J. B. S. Morritt], “to his opinions as nearly as is consistent with the inevitable weakness of our nature, is a praise so high that it seems like exaggeration; yet in my conscience I believe it, and I knew him well for at least forty years.”

Date: April 9, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 204-205

Posted: 20220508

Reflection 58

On the publication of his book Real Christianity – his hopes for its usefulness and his pleasure at declaring himself on the side of Christ…

“I cannot help saying it is a great relief to my mind to have published what I may call my manifesto; to have plainly told my worldly acquaintance what I think of their system and conduct, and where it must end. I own I shall act in my parliamentary situation with more comfort and satisfaction than hitherto. You will perceive that I have laboured to make my book as acceptable to men of the world as it could be made without a dereliction of principle; and I hope I have reason to believe not without effect. I hope also that it may be useful to young persons who with general dispositions to seriousness are very ignorant about religion, and know not where to apply for instruction. It is the grace of God, however, only that can teach, and I shall at least feel a solid satisfaction from having openly declared myself as it were on the side of Christ, and having avowed on what my hopes for the well-being of the country bottom.”

Date: April 19, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 202-203

Posted: 20220504

Reflection 57

On his response to slander, including introspection, gratitude, and prayer…

“My being moved by this falsehood,” he says, “is a proof that I am too much interested about worldly favour. Yet I endeavour I hope to fight against the bad tempers of revenge and pride which it is generating, by thinking of all our Saviour suffered in the way of calumny. St. Stephen also and St. Paul were falsely accused. Let me humbly watch myself, so far as this false charge may suggest matter of amendment; and also I ought to be very thankful that with the many faults of which I am conscious, it has pleased God that I have never been charged justly, or where I could not vindicate myself. How good is God! The business of C. off so well; I left it more to Him than I have often done in such cases. Be this remembered for future practice. The real truth is that at Bath I carried sometimes a New Testament, a Horace, or a Shakespeare in my pocket, and got by heart or recapitulated in walking or staying by myself in the Pump-room. I had got a Testament which had not the common dress of one on purpose. I cannot recollect having had any movement of spiritual pride on this ground, but remember I thought it a profitable way. I got two or three of St. Paul’s epistles by heart when otherwise quite idle, and had resolved to learn much Scripture in this way, remembering Venn’s comfort from it. Thou, Lord, knowest my integrity, and it will finally appear; meanwhile let my usefulness not be prevented by this report, or that of my book thwarted. What a blessed institution is the Sunday!”

Date: March 26, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 197-198

Posted: 20220501

Reflection 56

On resolutions made and resolutions tested…

The resolutions with which he had begun this busy season, were, “to redeem time more; to keep God more in view, and Christ, and all He has suffered for us; and the unseen world, where Christ is now sitting at the right hand of God interceding for His people. I would grow in love and tender solicitude for my fellow-creatures’ happiness, in preparedness for any events which may befall me in this uncertain state. I may be called to sharp trials, but Christ is able to strengthen me for the event, be it what it may.” These resolutions he soon had to act upon in bearing a series of calumnious charges which were heaped upon him in a Cambridge newspaper. “I am abused for the grossest hypocrisy in Flower’s paper, which states as a fact that I always had a prayer book in the Pump-room, and said my prayers there.” “There seems,” says Dr. Milner, “to be something systematic meant against you. It really appears to amount to downright hatred and persecution, nor have I the least doubt that the person who writes in this manner would do you personal injury if he could with impunity…”

Date: March 1797

Volume 2: Pages 196-197

Posted: 20220427

Reflection 55

On comfort, wisdom, and peace in trusting God, considering His sovereignty and good purposes despite erratic and disheartening human affairs – in letters to Lord Muncaster…

“Truly my gloomy views of the state of things amongst us are more and more verified. Indeed yours have been of the same hue. I have but one satisfaction, and that is in knowing that all human events are under the direction of a Being of infinite wisdom and goodness, who, though by ways to us inscrutable, is carrying on the purposes of His own will. My dear friend, how strongly does the precariousness of all human prospects and possessions inculcate the lesson of pursuing something more stable than this world contains! Let not this lesson be preached to us in vain.”

“I like to tell you bad as well as good tidings. O my dear friend, how this tumultuous state endears to one that heavenly peace, which, flowing from a source which worldly disturbances cannot reach, may remain entire though all around us be in confusion.”

Date: February 10, 26, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 191, 193-194

Posted: 20220424

Reflection 54

On a Sunday – observations and prayers…

“I have this week been dining out every day. To-day, to which I looked forward as a religious season with hope and pleasure, my heart is little warm I fear, though my judgment is fixed. Yet let me earnestly pray to God to give me His grace, to guide me, to preserve me, to render me useful here, and in the end a partaker of His glory.”

Date: January 22, 1797

Volume 2: Pages 189

Posted: 20220420

Reflection 53

On his resolve to serve God wholly and humbly, with increasing commitment and dependence on Him – reflections after a severe illness…

By the middle of the following week he was sufficiently recovered to bear a journey, and at the desire of his physicians set out for Bath. “It has pleased God of His great mercy to raise me up again from this attack, which threatened much; I then thought death probably near. Oh that I might now better employ the time it has pleased God to allow me! May I be enlightened, and purified, and quickened; and having sadly wasted my precious faculties even since my thinking more seriously, may I now more constantly act as an accountable creature, who may be called away suddenly to his reckoning.” This thought appears to have altered his intention of “putting off his tract “for a season of greater leisure, and he begins his stay at Bath with the determination of giving to it all the time which health and society allowed. “May I be enabled to engage in this busy scene with benefit to others, and without harm to myself. Oh that I may feel the power of Divine grace in my heart to fill me with love of God and of my fellow-creatures! Oh how much do I want! what unnumbered blessings do I receive at the hands of God, and how unequal is my return! Yet let me remember He has encouraged us to apply to Him for His Holy Spirit. Let him that is athirst come. Create then in me this sacred thirst, and satisfy it with that peace of God, which Thou only canst supply.”

Date: Early January 1797 (Part 2)

Volume 2: Pages 187-188

Posted: 20220417

Reflection 52

On his resolve to serve God wholly and humbly, with increasing commitment and dependence on Him – reflections before and during a severe illness… 

“The recess for six weeks is commencing. I once meant to try to finish my tract, but I now rather think that, the time being too little for so very serious a work, I shall devote it to preparation for the House of Commons—improvement in speaking, which sadly neglected, and in knowledge. May God preserve me the while from vanity, and enable me to continue humble, and to devote all my faculties, powers, and studies to His service.” His plans were interrupted by a violent attack of sickness. “Sunday, Jan. 1st. Cecil’s, morning—good sermon from Bean—very serious. Staid in town to be quiet and recollect matters.” “I have felt much comfort and some humiliation; what cause have I for it! My life, alas, has been sadly unprofitable, when my opportunities are considered. I would now humbly resolve to amend, and through God’s grace live soberly, righteously, humbly, and godly. This year I have been preserved from many evils. What a black aspect do public affairs present! and what a lesson to us to make sure of a better inheritance!” “Monday, Jan. 2nd. Slept ill, and very indifferent—feared I was about to be as bad as the famous time,” (1788,) “ and suffered much—sent to Pitcairne. Had death, as probable, in view, and felt I hope resigned, but no ardour or warmth—confined for a few days.”

Date: Early January 1797 (Part 1)

Volume 2: Page 187

Posted: 20220413

Reflection 51

On Hannah More’s godly example, in a letter to her…

My dear Madam,

I have heard of the severe illness, with which it has pleased God to visit you, and I have received pleasure from hearing of your recovery. I trust you will still be spared to us, though I scarce know how to wish it, so far as you are yourself concerned, being persuaded that whenever you are called hence, it will be to the enjoyment of those pleasures, which eye hath not seen, nor ear heard. My dear madam, I think of you, and feel for you, with lively interest. How I respect your exertions, I would say to any one rather than to you; but to your feeling heart it will afford a cordial, to be assured that a friend looks through the bustling crowd with which he is hemmed in, and fixes his eye on you with complacency and approbation.—God knows that I wish to imitate your example, and to learn from you to seize the short intervals of tolerable ease and possible action, for acting for the suppression of vice and the alleviation of misery. May we each tread in our separate paths, and at length, having been graciously guided to our home through the mercy of our great Shepherd, may we meet in a better world, free from pain, and sickness, and sorrow, and live for ever in the exercise of all those kindly affections, which are now the balm of life, though so often alloyed by the irritations to which we are here subject. I scribble amidst much interruption, but my heart is full of kindness to you, and I would not restrain my feelings.

May God bless, and support, and strengthen you, is the hearty prayer of 

Yours sincerely,

W. Wilberforce

Date: November 9, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 182-183

Posted: 20220410

Reflection 50

On safeguarding Sunday… 

The next day, being engaged to dine with the Solicitor-General, “I felt,” says the Diary, “but moderate, and from regard to to-morrow, when I wished to be in a good state for God’s service, I sent an excuse.” On Sunday, “I was asked to dine at Lord Hood’s; how much more pleasant is a day of Christian solitude!”

Date: October 1-2, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 178-179

Posted: 20220406

Reflection 49

On recognizing the hand of God in the course of nations…

Yet I should not feel dejected if I could hope that we might expect to be favoured by the good providence of God; but that I dare not hope, forming my judgments of the future from what appears in Scripture to have been the course of the Divine proceedings with regard to other nations. Above all, we do not recognise the hand of God, though so plainly lifted up. A neighbouring country has been severely punished for its infidelity and wickedness; (for to these it would not be difficult to trace the misfortunes of France;) this we see, but we discover no sign of the emotions it ought to excite in us. There is nothing like humiliation, nothing like an acknowledgment of the government of God. We speak in lofty and vaunting terms of our fleets and armies, and profess to rely on them for the success of our endeavours; when defeated or frustrated in our designs, we talk of ill fortune, of the uncertainty of military operations, of the misconduct of commanders, but not of the chastising arm of Providence. In all the higher circles there is even increasing dissipation and profusion.

Date: September 29, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 173-174

Posted: 20220403

Reflection 48

On praise for safety and prayer for strength… 

17th… Got to Palace Yard by half-past five—all well, and I home in safety. Praise the Lord, O my soul. A good deal moved by serious ideas.

18th, Sunday. Oh may I pray earnestly to God to proportion my strength to my trials, and to enable me to grow continually in His faith, and fear, and love. I am plunging into a depth of trials, O help me.

Date: September 17-18, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 169-170

Posted: 20220330

Reflection 47

On the gloomy state of public affairs, as marked by vanity and very little concern for God, His will, or His way of peace…

I am now forced from my philosophical arrangement, and compelled to look a little to the state of public affairs. Seldom have they offered a more gloomy spectacle. To me, I own, they wear a still darker aspect; because I see nothing of that proper temper of mind in our great men, which I should hail as the dawning of the day after a night of darkness and horror. No humiliation, no recognition of the providence of God. The same unwearied round of diversions, as in seasons of the most uninterrupted prosperity. What is this but practical atheism? And coupled with the Slave Trade, and with the wall of brass by which we bar out the entrance of light and civilization into India, does it not compose such an account, when estimated by the Scripture standard, as may well strike terror into the heart of every serious man? Blessed be God, who offers us a peace beyond the reach of human accidents. Never, never was there a time when we were more clamorously called on to secure it.

Date: August 18, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 167-168

Posted: 20220327

Reflection 46

On notable events of his life thus far, a thoughtful review for gratitude and humiliation…

His Sundays were spent in comparative retirement; and before he quitted Buxton, more than one was specially devoted to a thoughtful review of “the notables in my life, for which I should return thanks, or be otherwise suitably affected.” [fn. Journal, Sept. 4] “The singular accident, as it seemed to me, of my asking Milner to go abroad with me in 1784. How much it depended on contingencies!—his coming to Hull with his brother; being known to my grandfather; distinguishing himself, &c. If he had been as ill as he was afterwards, or if I had known his character, we should not have gone together. Doddridge’s ‘Rise and Progress’ having fallen in my way so providentially whilst abroad, given by Unwin to Mrs. Smith, thence coming to Bessy, and by her taken abroad. My being raised to my present situation just before I became acquainted with the truth, and one year and a half before I in any degree experienced its power. This, humanly speaking, would not have taken place afterwards. What a mercy to have been born an Englishman, in the eighteenth century, of decently religious parents, with a fortune, talents, &c.! Even Gibbon felt thankful for this; and shalt not thou praise the Lord, O my soul? My being providentially engaged in the Slave Trade business. I remember well how it was—what an honourable service! How often protected from evil and danger! kept from Norris’s hand, and Kimber’s . . furious West Indians . . two whole seasons together. Rolleston—and my coming away from Bath so providentially—the challenge never cleared up. My illness in the spring, which might have been fatal, well recovered from. My going into Yorkshire in the winter. My election over with little trouble and expense.” 

This enumeration is succeeded by a catalogue of various causes for humiliation, collected by a careful scrutiny of his past life. “And now,” he ends, “I can only throw myself upon the infinite compassion of Christ, and rely on His effectual grace. I am in myself most weak and vile. But do not I owe all to the goodness of God? It is Thou, O Lord, that hast given the very small increase there has been, and that must give all if there be more.”

Date: September 4, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 165-166

Posted: 20220323

Reflection 45

On his favorite kind of sermons…

“Miss Seward went on Friday. Erskine, Milner, and I too much with her—flattering her, &c. I called once to get serious talk, but in vain. She commended the preacher at the rooms. I said I liked sermons better which made people uneasy.”

Date: August 28, 1796

Volume 2: Page 164

Posted: 20220320

Reflection 44

On Abolition – a charge to work hard and trust God, in a letter to a friend and fellow abolitionist…

“I rejoice to hear of your going on prosperously in your reforming operations. You have indeed cause for thankfulness at being so much blessed in your endeavours. What a delightful idea is that, which I trust will be realized, of your meeting from time to time in a better world, those whom you have been the means of enlightening with the knowledge of a Saviour, and the descendants, from generation to generation, of those whose hereditary piety originated under your ministry! ‘Ride on prosperously.’ It is the contemplation of a scene like this, which refreshes the mind, when wearied by Archduke Charles and General Moreau. Alas ! no signs of humiliation. God scourges, but we feel it not.”

Date: July 25, 1796

Volume 2: Page 161

Posted: 20220316

Reflection 43

On the power of Scripture and the presence of God, and observed disparities between walk and talk…

“I have this week read Scripture (the Acts) constantly and seriously, and have had much new light thrown on them. I have felt at times, when walking, &c. a sense of the presence of God; but in company have been vain and gay, and I fear not duly attentive to the edification of friends. Oh how different am I from what I advise others to be, and how much like the lukewarm Christians I am condemning!”

Date: July 9, 1796

Volume 2: Page 160

Posted: 20220313

Reflection 42

On God’s providence over the Church universal, her future assembly, and her present union in praise to God – in a letter to Zachary Macaulay, Governor at Sierra Leone…

“My dear Sir,

Whilst I was taking a contemplative walk this morning, I rambled in thought to Sierra Leone, and my mind was naturally led to consider the providential dispensations of that Almighty Being, whose infinitely complicated plan embraces all His creatures, and who especially leads, and directs, and supports all those who in their different walks through this multifarious maze of life, are pursuing in His faith and fear the objects which He has respectively assigned them. Here they often know little of each other, but they are all members of the same community, and at length they shall be all collected into one family; and peace, and love, and joy, and perfect unalloyed friendship, shall reign without intermission or abatement. Perhaps you will then introduce me to some of your sable subjects, whom I never shall see in this world; and I may bring you personally acquainted with others, to whom I have talked of your labours and sufferings in our common cause. ‘The holy church throughout all the world doth acknowledge Thee.’ It always presents to my mind a most august idea—the praises of God arising from every nation, and kindred, and people, where His name is known, and blending, as they rise, into one note and body of harmony. How much ought this to stimulate us to enlarge the bounds of our Redeemer’s kingdom!”

Date: July 3, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 157-158

Posted: 20220306

Reflection 41

On “the secret of his hidden strength,” after the events at York…

The secret of his hidden strength is simply recorded in the following line:—“Home about seven and prayed. Much affected, and shed many tears.”

Date: June 7, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 156

Posted: 20220302

Reflection 40

On recognizing God’s providence for his position, his ability to fulfill it, and the people’s favor, in a speech at York…

“I should,” he told them, “but feebly execute my task if I were to attempt to give expression to the various emotions of my heart. I trust that I may say they are virtuous emotions; they are grateful; they are humble. I feel deeply impressed with your kindness; but above all, I recognise with thankfulness the hand of that gracious Providence which has caused my cup to overflow with blessings; which first raised me to an elevation I could never hope to have attained, has enabled me in some tolerable measure to discharge the duties of that important station, and disposed your minds to reward my services with so disproportionate a share of favour. You will not wonder at my being serious; even gratitude like mine is necessarily serious.”

Date: June 7, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 154-155

Posted: 20220227

Reflection 39

On perspective and peace, God’s blessings in a busy season despite his hurried devotions…

The election was to follow in a week, and he gladly withdrew himself from York to the quiet of the country. “Travelled to Creyke’s, who had been very kind, and pressed me. Felt excessively comfortable, from calm after fortnight’s turbulence and bustle. Much pleased with Creyke’s family peace and rationality.” (fn. Diary, June 1) “I have had hurried devotions lately, and scarce any Scripture reading, yet in general my mind in better frame than sometimes. Much fatigue—little or no anxiety about these things—grateful, I trust, to God.”

Date: Early June 1796

Volume 2: Pages 153-154

Posted: 20220223

Reflection 38

On God, and not himself, as the source of his many blessings, as well as his desire to be grateful and devoted to God’s glory and man’s good…

On Sunday, May the 29th, after having attended public worship in the Minster, he withdrew his

thoughts from the bustling scene around him, to commune with himself. “This last has been a very hurrying week, little time for devotion and Scripture neglected, for which I ought to have found time. But I thank God that I hope I have desired and wished for a quiet opportunity of communing with Him and my own heart, and to-day I adore with some degree of gratitude that gracious Providence which has led me all my days in ways that I knew not, and has given me so much favour with men. It is His work. His be the glory. I hope I really feel how entirely it is His doing; that I have nothing of which I can boast or be proud; that it is what I could never have effected by my own counsels or might. Oh may I be enabled to be grateful, (duly I cannot be,) and to devote myself first to God’s glory, and then diligently to the service of those constituents who are so kind to me.” (fn. Journal)

Date: May 29, 1796

Volume 2: Pages 151-152

Posted: 20220220

Reflection 37

On attending to the eternal while living and working in the temporal, and his recognition of earnest prayer for success in doing so…

“I was in hopes of a day of religious retirement before my bustle, but God has ordered it otherwise. I fear I have been too ready to enter into election matters; yet I feel the emptiness of worldly things, and am, I trust, this day in some degree thirsting after the water of life.” (fn. Journal) “Alas, what earnestness do I see around me to secure a transitory interest! what carelessness when eternity is in question I” (fn. To William Hey Esq.) “Let me pray earnestly for grace to stand firm within, amidst all the turmoil into which I am about to enter. How much vanity have I felt in myself from the situation in which I stand in the county! It is all the unmerited mercy of God—can I be vain? I go to earnest prayer, and would endeavour after dedication of myself to God in Christ through the Holy Spirit.” (fn. Journal)

Date: Late May 1796

Volume 2: Pages 148-149

Posted: 20220216

Reflection 36

On his trust in God, temptation to self-indulgence, proclivity for exertion, and gratitude for blessing – during a period of intense sickness…

There was too much truth in the announcement which had startled Dr. Burgh. He was confined entirely to the house by a very serious illness. “I have been indisposed,” he says, [fn. Journal, April 17] “for ten days, and have had my head a good deal weakened. My mind has, I thank God, been in an easy, tranquil state, reposing on the promises with a consciousness of deep demerit, yet trusting in God’s mercy through Christ. I trust He will not spurn such a one from Him. I have lately felt and now feel a sort of terror on re-entering the world.”

“I have not,” he adds, [fn. Journal, April 24] after a partial restoration, “enough considered God’s late call of illness, nor am I now desirous enough of health and strength, that I may be more active, but rather secretly glad that I have a privilege to be idle. This is base! What should I think of it in any one else, who should be glad that he was compelled to live quiet, and indulge at home, instead of going about in the service of some great benefactor?” This indisposition to all action was itself a part of his complaint; for his natural temper disposed him to exertion. He describes himself a few days later, as being, “according to the Eastern proverb, at least according to the spirit of it, (better to sit than to walk, to sleep than to wake, &c.) in a most enviable state, for I suffer little or no pain, and can eat, drink, and sleep; but a life of more activity better suits my depraved, unoriental taste, and I shall be very glad to be given up again to the toils of my ordinary habits. Yet, to be serious, I hope I feel thankful for all the conveniences and blessings which surround me, the comfort of which is never so marked as in a state of sickness.” [fn. To Right Honorable Henry Addington] 

Date: Late April 1796

Volume 2: Pages 144-145

Posted: 20220213

Reflection 35

On a day set apart for fasting and prayer – for mercy, direction, and gratitude…

The following Friday he resolved “to set apart chiefly for religious exercises; fasting in my way, i.e. being very moderate in food, which only does with me. I cannot employ it so entirely, because I have some business about the poor which will not bear any delay. My chief reasons for a day of secret prayer are, 1st, That the state of public affairs is very critical, and calls for earnest deprecation of the Divine displeasure. 2ndly, My station in life is a very difficult one, wherein

I am at a loss to know how to act. Direction therefore should be specially sought from time to time. 3rdly, I have been graciously supported in difficult situations of a public nature. I have gone out and returned home in safety: my health has not suffered from fatigue: and favour and a kind reception have attended me. I would humbly hope too, that what I am now doing is a proof that God has not withdrawn His Holy Spirit from me. I am covered with mercies. Return then unto thy rest, O my soul, for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. 16th. Morning felt the fragrant impression of yesterday.”

Date: January 15-16, 1796

Volume 2: Page 138

Posted: 20220209

Reflection 34

On the spiritual state of the higher orders, in a letter to a friend…

My dear sir, my views are very gloomy, and what prevents their brightening is my seeing daily proofs of the entire forgetfulness of God and of His providence, which prevails in the higher orders. I speak especially of the leading political characters on both sides. In prosperity we were not grateful, in adversity we are not humbled.

Date: November 28, 1795

Volume 2: Page 119

Posted: 20220205

Reflection 33

On walking the path of duty in the fear of God while supporting controversial bills, as well as his gratitude for a triumph on the way to their success… 

Yet thoughts like these could not move him from the path of duty, upon which he had entered in the fear of God. “Let me look before me,” he had said, at the commencement of the session, “and solemnly implore the aid of God, to guide, quicken, and preserve me. Let me endeavour to soar above the turmoil of this tempestuous world, and to experience joy and peace in believing. Let me consider what in former years have proved my chief occasions of falling, and provide against them. Let me remember the peculiar character of a Christian; gravity in the House, cheerfulness, kindness, and placability, with a secret guard and hidden seriousness. Let me preserve a sense of the vanity of earthly greatness and honour.” This was the secret of his strength, and when the prospect before him was gloomy, “Put,” he continues, “thy trust in God, O my soul. If thou prayest earnestly to Him, confessing thy sins, imploring pardon, and labouring for amendment, thou wilt be accepted, and then all things shall work together for thy good. God protected me from Norris, Kimber, and innumerable other dangers. He is still able to protect me, and will, if it be for my good.” Popular odium could not shake this confidence, and to the two Bills he gave, in spite of all its threats, his undisguised support.

“With him,” he told Mr. Hey, “it was matter of thankfulness to God that the enemies of peace and public order had been so discomfited. For myself, I should be thankful to have been so far honoured as to have been made in any measure the instrument of the goodness of Heaven.”

Note: The two bills referred to were the Seditious Meetings Act and the Treason Act, measures pursued in response to the proliferation of French [Revolutionary] principles in Britain during their war with France.

Date: Fall 1795

Volume 2: Pages 115-116, 132

Posted: 20220119

Reflection 32

On God’s grace in preserving him these past seven years – a cause for gratitude and devotion…

“How many scenes,” was his private reflection on revisiting Muncaster Castle, “have I gone through, to how many dangers have I been exposed, since I was last here in 1788! I ought to be very grateful. What reason have I to devote all my powers to the service of God, who has preserved me from innumerable evils, and still holds out to me the hope of mercy!”

Date: September 1795

Volume 2: Page 108

Posted: 20220112

Reflection 31

On the challenges of remaining a faithful witness in the thick of society, and the value of solitude and Sundays…

How carefully he watched over himself during these Yorkshire visits, is seen by numerous entries in his Diary.—“Aug. 9th. This rambling life amongst various people abounds with temptations to vanity, forgetfulness of divine things, and want of boldness in Christ’s cause; and I too readily yield to them. My health is not equal to this vagrarious kind of life, and at the same time preserving and redeeming time for serious things. Oh how much ought I to quicken the things which are ready to die! This plan was undertaken from a conviction of its being right, but it sadly disorders and distracts me mentally.” His blaming himself for want of boldness in the cause of Christ, is another instance of the high standard by which he tried himself. For not only did he at the moment steadily discountenance all unbecoming conversation, but he took private opportunities of reasoning afterwards with those who so transgressed his principles. In this very visit he addressed at length by letter, with plain and honest boldness, one gentleman of great influence, who (a clergyman) had in his presence taken the name of God in vain.

“Aug. 13th. This hurrying company life does not agree with my soul. How little courage have I in professing the gospel of Christ! How little do I embrace opportunities of serving the spiritual interests of my friends! How much insincerity am I led into! how much acquiescence in unchristian sentiments! I wish I had written my tract, that my mind might be clear; yet as all this more plainly discovers me to myself, it may be of service. If my heart were in a more universally holy frame, I should not be liable to these temptations. Remember they show your weakness, which when they are away, you are apt to mistake for strength. Entire occasional solitude seems eminently useful to me. Finding myself without support, I become more sensible of my own wretchedness, and of the necessity of flying to God in Christ, for wisdom and righteousness, and all I want here and hereafter.” “A quiet Sunday is a blessed thing; how much better than when passed in a large circle! My life is not spent with sufficient diligence, yet I hope I do some good by my conversation; and I thank God I this day enjoy a more heavenly-minded frame than common. Alas! how ignorant are people of Christianity!” [fn. Sept. 6]

Date: August 9-September 6, 1795

Volume 2: Pages 104-106

Posted: 20220105

Reflection 30

On his powerful eloquence and his deliberate desire to use it well in daily conversation…

There were few who could resist his powers of conversation. It possessed indeed a charm which description can but faintly recall to those who have listened to it. As full of natural gaiety as the mirth of childhood, it abounded in the anecdotes, reflections, and allusions of a thoughtful mind and well-furnished memory; whilst it was continually pointed by humour of a most sparkling quality… Though any one admitted to the society of Mr. Wilberforce would have found him “full of kindness towards all,” and would have witnessed certainly the workings of a spirit which abounded in benevolence; yet the most transient observer could not have failed to remark also the continual flashes of wit, which lighted up his most ordinary conversation; harmless certainly, yet playing lightly over all he touched upon—the sports of a fervent imagination sweetened by a temper naturally kind, and chastened by the continual self-restraint of a conscience which would not bear the offence of giving pain to any. This was a natural endowment, and had been one great charm of his early years; but it was now carefully cultivated as a talent for his Master’s use. It was this high sense of its importance, which led him so often to condemn himself. He was not contented to wait for the chance entrance of profitable subjects of conversation, he was diligent to make it useful.

“I have been dining out,” says his Diary [Nov. 15] a few weeks after this time, “and was then at an assembly at the Chief Baron’s. Alas! how little like a company of Christians!—a sort of hollow cheerfulness on every countenance. I grew out of spirits. I had not been at pains before I went to fit myself for company, by a store of conversation topics, launchers, &c.” These were certain topics carefully arranged before he entered into company, which might insensibly lead the conversation to useful subjects. His first great object was to make it a direct instrument of good; and in this he was much assisted by his natural powers, which enabled him to introduce serious subjects with a cheerful gravity, and to pass from them by a natural transition before attention flagged. He was also watchful to draw forth from all he met their own especial information, and for some time kept a book in which was recorded what he had thus acquired. This watchful desire to make society useful saved him from the danger to which his peculiar powers exposed him ; and he never engrossed the conversation. No one ever shone more brightly, or was more unconscious of his own brilliancy.

Date: November 1795

Volume 2: Pages 103-104

Posted: 20211230

Reflection 29

On his spiritual affections and holy obedience, as assessed by his sons…

*Note: See previous post for context.  

Yet though he was thus disposed to condemn himself, his private Journal bears the clearest marks of an unusual warmth of spiritual affections. “My eyes,” says an entry of this time, “are very indifferent—tears always make them so, and this obliges me to check myself in my religious offices.”

But while he watched carefully over the affections of his heart, no man’s religion could be more free from that dreaming unreality, which substitutes a set of internal sensations for the practice of holy obedience. “This morning, (Sunday,)” he writes, “ I felt the comfort of sober, religious self-conversation. Yet true Christianity lies not in frames and feelings, but in diligently doing the work of God. I am now about to enter upon a trying scene. Oh that God may give me grace, that I may not dishonour but adorn His cause; that I may watch and pray more earnestly and seriously.”

Date: Late June 1795

Volume 2: Page 97

Posted: 20211222

Reflection 28

On the present yield of self-examination, including the temptations of company and the lack of “true faith which realizes unseen things, and produces seriousness” and “vigour of religious affections, which… might render me apt and alert to spiritual things”…

He was anxious also to make use of his present leisure for cultivating habits of devotion. “July 15th. Spent the day in more than ordinary devotional exercises and fasting, and found comfort, and hope some benefit.” “It seems something providential that, wanting to devote the day mainly to secret religious exercises, fasting, self-examination, humiliation, and supplication for myself and others, I should be left unexpectedly alone. The result of examination shows me that though my deliberate plans are formed in the fear of God, and with reference to His will, yet that when I go into company (on which I resolve as pleasing to God) I am apt to forget Him; my seriousness flies away; the temptations of the moment to vanity and volatility get the better of me. If I have any misgivings at the time, they are a sullen, low grumbling of conscience, which is disregarded. Although, therefore, I am not defective in external duties to God, or grossly towards my fellow-creatures, but rather the contrary, (though here no man but myself knows how much blame I deserve,) yet I seem to want a larger measure, 1st, of that true faith which realizes unseen things, and produces seriousness; and, 2nd, of that vigour of the religious affections, which by making communion with God and Christ through the Spirit more fervent and habitual, might render me apt and alert to spiritual things. My finding no more distinct pleasure in  religious offices (vide David’s Psalms every where) argues a want of the Holy Spirit. This might not be inferred so positively in every case, because different mental constitutions are differently affected. Mine I take to be such as are capable of a high relish of religion. I ought to be thankful for this; I am responsible for it; it will be a blessing and help well used, and if neglected it will increase my condemnation. Therefore let me cultivate the religious affections. I think it was better with me in this respect formerly; at least I felt then more religious sensibility. This was in part natural. Yet let me quicken those things which are ready to die.”

Date: July 15, 1795

Volume 2: Pages 96-97

Posted: 20211215

Reflection 27

On his due diligence in forming judgments, with regard to the opinions of those in high office, his constituents, and God… 

“My high opinion of the minister’s integrity, (and of no man’s political integrity do I think more highly,) and my respect for his understanding, (and no man’s understanding do I more respect,) ought certainly to make me give due weight to what I know are his opinions; but when I have allowed them their due influence, and after carefully surveying, and closely scrutinizing, and coolly and gravely and repeatedly weighing the circumstances of the case, have formed at last a deliberate judgment, that judgment, whatever it may be, I am bound to follow. I am sent here by my constituents not to gratify my private feelings, but to discharge a great political trust; and for the faithful administration of the power vested in me, I must answer to my country and my God.”

Date: May 27, 1795

Volume 2: Pages 90-91

Posted: 20211209

Reflection 26

On relating rightly to the world, and a prayer for a heart full of love for God…

“26th… Oh may God support me in this hurrying week upon which I am entering.” “Saturday, May 2nd. All Pitt’s supporters believe him disposed to make peace. To Royal Academy dinner—sat near Lord Spencer, Windham, &c.—too worldly-minded—catches and glees—they importunate for Rule Britannia—I doubt if I had much business at such a place. What a painted shadow! It is not right for me entirely to abstract myself from the world; yet what a gay dream was this! O God, do Thou f6r Christ’s sake fill my soul with the love of Thee, and all other things will grow insipid.”

Date: April 26, May 2, 1795

Volume 2: Page 86

Posted: 20211025

Reflection 25

On Abolition – a charge to work hard and trust God, in a letter to a friend and fellow abolitionist…

“I cannot conclude without a word or two on our great cause. Suffice it then to say, that I am in no degree discouraged. Great efforts will probably be necessary, and at the proper time they will be made. It is my intention to move, next year, for Abolition in January, 1796; and though I dare not hope to carry a bill for that purpose through both Houses, yet, if I do not deceive myself, this infamous and wicked traffic will not last out this century. Let us all be active, persevering, unwearied, and trust to the good providence of God, disposed at the same time to acquiesce in His dispensations whatever they may be.”

Date: Early 1795

Volume 2: Page 83

Posted: 20210926

Reflection 24

On Easter Sunday – thoughts marked by humiliation and hope…

“Easter Sunday. What a blessing it is to be permitted to retire from the bustle of the world, and to be furnished with so many helps for realizing unseen things! I seem to myself to-day to be in some degree under the power of real Christianity; conscious, deeply conscious of corruption and unprofitableness; yet to such a one, repenting and confessing his sins, and looking to the cross of Christ, pardon and reconciliation are held forth, and the promise of the Holy Spirit, to renew the mind, and enable him to conquer his spiritual enemies, and get the better of his corruption. Be not then cast down, O my soul, but ask for grace from the fulness which is in Jesus. He came not to call the righteous, but sinners; He was the friend of sinners. Look therefore unto Him, and plead His promises, and firmly resolve through the strength derived from Him, to struggle with thy sins; with all of them, allowing none of them in any degree; and to endeavour to devote all thy faculties to His glory. My frame of mind at this time seems to me compounded of humiliation and hope; a kind of sober determination to throw myself upon the promises of the gospel, as my only confidence, and a composure of mind, resulting from a reliance on the mercy and truth of God. I have also this comfort, that I feel love towards my fellow-creatures. Still I perceive vanity and other evils working; but Christ is made unto us sanctification, and our heavenly Father will give His Holy Spirit to them that ask Him. Wait therefore on the Lord. Wait, watch and pray, and wait.”

Date: April 5, 1795

Volume 2: Page 81-82

Posted: 20210922