I was early instructed by Christian parents, and had I heeded the impressions made, I would not be compelled to regret spending so much of my life in sinful ways, neither have had so many evil habits to bring under subjection. When about six years old, my father commenced instructing me in the ways of the Lord. My young heart was often glad to hear of the love of God's dear Son for fallen man. I often questioned my father in regard to heavenly things, and would shed tears of joy that such great blessings are reserved for the righteous. But when I grew up, I was thrown into evil company, and went into sinful practices; but my conscience was rarely at ease, although others thought I labored under no restraint. I often had to leave my companions, to hide my feelings; and as wicked as I was, I never would think to go to my bed, without [138] first praying, as I had done when a little boy. I often wept, to think how I had gone astray. At last I was brought low by sickness, when my situation appeared plain before me, as being a sinner, without God and without hope in the world. Oh! I thought I was sinking into eternal woe. I resolved, if spared, I would set out to serve the Lord. But on recovering, I grew careless again, from looking at the inconsistencies of many professors of religion.

      At length I was influenced by the Holy Spirit, and brought to see my guilt afresh; and my sickbed promises, so long neglected, revived in my mind. I now yielded my all to God, and He blessed me. O the joy of that moment! I thought not of continuing with my old associates, though they were dear to me; but thanks be to God, they nearly all followed; and far happier are the seasons we have since enjoyed together, than those we had in sin.

      Many have been my trials since my conversion; but I am still encouraged by the grace of God, to persevere, and strive for the heavenly land. "The Lord loveth whom He chasteneth" (Hebrews 12:6) has helped me to bear up under temptations. "I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me" (Psalms 119:75) is a consolation in afflicting circumstances. "He shall deliver thee in six troubles; yea, in [139] seven there shall no evil touch thee" (Job 5:19) is a sure promise to all God's children, to inspire them to press forward that we may obtain that imperishable crown, which will repay a thousand fold for all the trials we have to endure in striving for it.

[THW 138-140]