[b]Break through the snares of vanity!
(Letters of John Newton)
Dear fellow pastor,
I would earnestly press both of us--
to follow the Lord fully;
to aim at a life of self-denial;
to renounce self-will; and
to guard against self-wisdom.
The less we have to do with the world--the better!
Unless we watch and pray--we shall often be ensnared!
Time is precious, and opportunities once gone--are gone
forever! Even by reading, and what we call studying--we
may be comparatively losers. The best way to study--is
to be closely waiting upon God in humble, secret, fervent
prayer. The treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in
His hands--and He gives bountifully, without upbraiding!
Whatever we may undertake with a sincere desire
to promote His glory--we may comfortably pursue.
Nothing is trivial--which is done for Him.
Pray for me, that I may be enabled to break through
the snares of vanity which lie in my way; that I may
be crucified with Christ--and live a sincere life of faith
in Him who loved me, and gave Himself for me!
Adieu,
John Newton
June 29, 1757