 Section 22 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Brian Keenan. Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1, Section 22. To the Reverend Mr. MR, May 2, 1776. Reverend and Dear Brother. Yesterday I preached at Bee's Chapel to a crowded and attentive audience. Afterward the Methodists held their love-feast, during which as many as pleased rose, one after another, and spoke in few words of the goodness of God to their souls. Before three had done speaking, although they spoke but few words, you might see a solemn sense of the presence of God visible on every countenance, while tears of sorrow or joy were flowing from many eyes. Several testified to the consolation they had received. Some believed they were perfected in love. When the passions of the people were rising too high, and breaking through all restraint, the preacher gently checked them by giving out a few verses of a hymn. When most of the congregation went away, some were so distressed with a sense of their sins that they could not be persuaded to leave the place. Some lively Christians stayed with them, and continued in prayer for the space of two hours, till fifteen mourners were enabled to rejoice in God their Savior. And some careless creatures of the polite resort, who would needs go in to see what this strange thing meant, felt an unusual power, so that, like Saul among the prophets, they fell down on their knees, and cried for mercy among the rest. Oh, may they still continue to pray till God has given them another heart. May 3, 1776 Last night three or four score of my neighbors met together to keep a watch-night, at which it is the custom to spend three or four hours in religious exercises and to break up at twelve. Such was the distress of those that were convinced of sin, that they continued in prayer all night, until two hours after sunrise. Here also fourteen or fifteen received a sense of pardon, so that in two days thirty of my own parish have been justified, besides others of other parishes. Indeed, I do not take it for granted that all are justified who think they are so. Some, I fear, are mistaken. But I shall judge better of this when I see the fruits. May 7, 1776 The work of God still increases among us. I believe within these eight days more than forty here have been filled with joy and peace in believing. Of these I have had an account, but there may be many more. And several who have been justified some time believe God has blessed them with perfect love. I have no doubt but the work now carrying on is genuine. Yet there were some circumstances attending it which I disliked, such as loud outcries, tremblings, fallings, convulsions. But I am better reconciled since I read President Edwards on that head who observes that wherever these most appear there is always the greatest and the deepest work. There is another thing which has given me much pain, the praying of several at one and the same time. Sometimes five or six or more have been praying all at once and several parts of the room for distressed persons. Others were speaking by way of exhortation so that the assembly appeared to be all in confusion and must seem to one at a little distance more like a drunken rabble than the worshipers of God. I was afraid that this was not doing all things in decency and order. Indeed Dr. Edwards defends this also. But yet I am not satisfied concerning it. I had heard of it but never saw it till Sunday evening. But this is a delicate point. It requires much wisdom to allay the wild and not damp the sacred fire. The first appearance of anything of the kind at my chapel was last Saturday night. I was not there but a young man who studies at my house was. He is grave, prudent and solidly religious without the least tincture of enthusiasm. He met the society there in the afternoon and would have returned home but that many who were in great distress begged him and some others to stay and pray with him. They continued in prayer the whole night during which about twelve were set at liberty. But notwithstanding all they could do they were often two, three or more speaking at one time. I heard of this the next day when I was at church and hastened thence to the chapel. Some hundreds were assembled there and were in much confusion when I went in. I went into the pulpit and began to sing adding short exhortations and prayers. The confusion ceased, several spirits were revived and some mourners comforted. Since that evening this kind of confusion has never been known in my neighborhood. It continued longer in other places but for some time has been totally gone. But as this abated the work of conviction and conversion usually abated too. Yet, blessed be God, it still goes on, though not with such rapidity. I have heard but of two or three that found peace for three weeks, whereas some time ago seldom a week passed but I could hear of eight or nine, sometimes between twenty and thirty at one meeting. I have chiefly spoken of what was done in my parish but that you may know a little of what was done elsewhere, I sub-join and extract from the letters of two local preachers in the county of Sussex. July 29, 1776. Reverend Sir, with unspeakable pleasure I acquaint you of the glorious revival of religion in our parts. It broke out at our last quarterly meeting and has since wonderfully spread throughout the circuit. The time seems to be coming when we shall not need to teach every man his neighbor to know the Lord, for they daily know him, from the least to the greatest, from little children to men of forescore. Above seven years have I been exhorting my neighbors, but very few would hear. Now, blessed be God, there are few that will not hear. It is no strange thing for two or three to find the Lord at a class meeting, and at a Sunday meeting, although there was no preacher, ten, fifteen, yea, near twenty have been converted. At a place near me, thirty have found the Lord within eight days. It is common with us for men and women to fall down as dead under an exhortation, but many more under prayer, perhaps twenty at a time. And some that have not fallen to the earth have shown the same distress, ringing their hands, smiting their breasts, and begging all to pray for them. With these the work is generally quick, some getting through in less than a week, some in two or three days, some in one, two, or three hours. Nay, we have an instance of one that was so indifferent as to leave her brethren at prayers and go to bed. But all at once she screamed out under a sense of her lost estate, and in less than fifteen minutes rejoiced in God her Savior. And, blessed be God, many of these retain a sense of his favor. Many, who a few weeks ago were despisers and scoffers, are now happy in the Lord. Many old Christians, who are always full of doubts and fears, now walk in the light of his countenance. Some have a clear witness in themselves that they have given their whole hearts to God. Oh, may God carry on his work among us until we are all swallowed up in love. T.S. Mr. S. lives twenty-two miles from me. The writer of the following letter, about thirty. July 29, 1776 Rev. Sir On June the 9th we had a large congregation. I spoke on No Man Can Serve Two Masters. Several appeared to be much distressed, two women in particular. We spent above an hour in prayer for them, and they arose in peace. When we met the class we suffered all that desired it to stay. The leader only put a question or two to each member. This was scarce-ended when the fire of God's love was kindled. Praises hung on the lips of many, and several cried out, What must we do to be saved? Thus it swiftly went on. Every now and then one rising with faith in Jesus. Surely this was one of the days of heaven. Such a day I never expected to see in time. While we were met, one I.W. was observed to be looking through the crack of the door, which, being opened, he came with it, and, being unable to stand, fell on the floor quite helpless. But in two or three hours he rose and praised a pardoning God. While one of the class who had been justified some time, received a blessing greatly superior to anything he had known before. We have reason to believe that on this day 15 were enabled to believe in Jesus. Saturday, June 15. I was speaking to the class, and one found peace to her soul. Sunday, 16, I spoke from, This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith, to four or five hundred people. This was also a day of Pentecost. Convictions seized on numbers who wrestled with God till their souls were set at liberty. A young woman told me she heard that many people fell down and she would come to help them up. This she said in scorn. She came accordingly. The power of God soon seized her and she wanted helping up herself. But it was not long before the spirit of grace helped her by giving her faith in Christ. We believe twenty souls found peace this day. Oh, may we see many such days. July 7. I spoke to a large congregation. Afterward I was going to give out to him when one was so powerfully struck that he could not hold a joint still and roared aloud for mercy. I immediately went to prayer. The cries of the people all the time greatly increasing. After prayer, BT, lately a great opposer, jumped up and began to praise God with accountants so altered that those who beheld him were filled with astonishment. Our meeting continued from twelve at noon till twelve at night during which God raised up about fifteen more witnesses. The Thursday following six of those who were convinced on Sunday found peace in believing. We hear of many others converted in the neighborhood, several of whom were strong opposers and some hoary-headed ones who had been strict Pharisees from their youth up. Sunday 21. We had a large and attentive auditory and the power of the Lord prevailed. The next day I was much tempted to doubt whether I was sent of God to preach or not. I prayed earnestly to the Lord that he would satisfy me and that he would keep all false fire from among us. Afterward I preached. While I was speaking, a mother and her daughter were so struck with conviction that they trembled every joint. But before I concluded both found peace. Glory be to God. I am, etc., JD. God has made examples of several opposers, examples not of justice but of mercy. Some of them came to the assembly with hearts full of ranker against the people of God so that had it been in their power they would have dragged them away to prison if not to death. But unexpectedly their stubborn hearts were bowed down being pierced with the arrows of the Almighty. In a moment they were filled with distress and anguish, their laughter turned into mourning and their cursing into prayer. And frequently in less than a week their heaviness has been turned into joy. Of this sort are several of our most zealous and circumspect walkers at this day. A goodly number of these are rich in this world. Yet they are now brought so low that they are willing to be taught by all and to be the servants of all. A gentleman of this parish in particular had much opposed and contradicted. He was fully persuaded that all outward appearances, either of distress or joy, were mere deceit. But as he was walking to his mill about half a mile from his house deep conviction fell upon him. The terrors of the Lord beset him round about and distress and anguish got hold upon him. When he came to the mill and found no one there he took that opportunity of prostrating himself before God and of pouring out his soul in his presence. As his distress was great his cries were loud and his prayer importanted. The Lord heard him and set his soul at liberty before he left the place. And the power which came upon him was so great that it seemed as if his whole frame were dissolving. Upon the whole this has been a great, a deep, a swift and an extensively glorious work. Both the nature and manner of it have been nearly the same wherever its benign influence reached. Where the greatest work was where the greatest number of souls have been convinced and converted to God there have been the most outcries, tremblings, convulsions and all sorts of external signs. I took all the pains I could that these might be kept within bounds that our good might not be evil spoken of. This I did only in veying against them in the public assembly but by private advices to local preachers and others as opportunity would permit. This method had its desired effect without putting a sword into the hands of the wicked. Wherever the contrary method has been taken where these things have been publicly opposed when they have been spoken against in promiscuous congregations the effect has always been this the men of the world have been highly gratified and the children of God deeply wounded. The former have plumed themselves as though they were the men who kept within due bounds and those that had made so much a do about religion were no better than hot-brained enthusiasts. I cannot but think this has a great tendency to hinder the work of God. Indeed, if we thought that God wrought everything irresistibly we should not fear this contrary. We know that as some things promote so others hinder his work. I grant means should be used to prevent all indecency but they should be used with great caution and tenderness that the cure may be affected if possible without damping the work of God. With regard to the inward work there has been a great variety as to the length and depth and circumstances in different persons but all in general have been at first alarmed with a sense of the multitude and heinousness of their sins with an awful view of the wrath of God and certain destruction if they persisted therein. Hence they betook themselves to prayer and as time permitted to the use of all other means of grace although deeply sensible of the vileness of their performances and the total insufficiency to merit the pardon of one sin or deserve the favor of God. They were next convinced of their unbelief and that faith in Christ is the only condition of justification. They continued thus waiting upon the Lord till he spoke peace to their souls. This he usually did in one moment in a clear and satisfactory manner so that all their griefs and anxieties vanished away filled with joy and peace in believing. Some indeed have had their burdens removed so that they felt no condemnation and yet they could not say they were forgiven but they could not be satisfied with this. They continued instant in prayer till they knew the Lamb of God had taken away their sins. Most of these had been suddenly convinced of sin but with some it was otherwise. Without any sense of their guilt they were brought to use the means of grace by mere dint of persuasion and afterward they were brought by degrees to see themselves and their want of a Saviour. But before they found deliverance they have had as deep a sense of their helpless misery as others. One in my parish was a remarkable instance of this. He was both careless and profane to a great degree and remained quite unconcerned while many of his companions were sorrowing after God or rejoicing in his love. One of his acquaintance advised him to seek the Lord. He said, I see no necessity for it as yet. When I do I will seek him as well as others. His friend persuaded him to try for one week watching against sin and going by himself every day. He did so and though he was quite stupid when he began, yet before the end of the week he was thoroughly sensible of the load of sin and is now happy in God. If you ask how stands the case now with those that have been the subjects of the late work? I have the pleasure to inform you I have not heard of any one apostate yet. It is true many since their first joy abated have given away to doubts and fears have had their confidence in God much shaken and have got into much heaviness. Several have passed through this and are now confirmed in the ways of God. Others are in it still and chiefly those over whom Satan had gained an advantage by hurrying them into irregular warmth or into expressions not well guarded. I have seen some of these in great distress and just ready to cast away hope. I have a great deal upon my hands at present and have little time either to write or read. The difficulties and temptations of the lately converted are so many and various that I am obliged to be in as many places as I can, for now is the critical hour. A man of zeal, though with little knowledge or experience may be an instrument of converting souls. But after they are converted he will have need of much knowledge, much prudence and experience to provide proper food and physics for the several members according to their state, habit, and constitution. This at present seems in a great measure to devolve upon me. And though I have been twenty years in the Lord's service yet I find I am quite unequal to the task. However I will do what I can and may the Lord bless my endeavors. The enemy is busy night and day and sowing the tears of division among the wheat. And in some places he has prevailed so far as to plunge some of them in the water. In other places wouldle feuds and animosities arise to grieve the preachers and damp the spirits of the people. On these occasions they commonly apply to me and all as well at least for a season. When I consider what it is to watch over souls and how much it implies to discharge it in any degree, I cannot but cry out with the apostle who is sufficient for these things. However upon the whole things are in as flourishing a condition as can reasonably be expected considering what great numbers of various capacities and stations have been lately added to the societies. But after all a great part of Virginia is still in a very dark and deplorable condition. This province contains 62 counties and the late work has reached only seven or eight of them. Nor has it been universal even in these, but chiefly in the circuit which is regularly visited by the preachers. In this alone very many hundreds have in a few months been added to the Lord and some are adding still. May he continue to pour out his spirit upon us and increase the number of the faithful every day. Our highest gratitude is due to our gracious God for he hath done marvelous things. In a short time he hath wrought a great work and let who will speak against it it is evident beyond all contradiction that many open and profligate sinners of all sorts have been effectually and lastingly changed into pious, uniform Christians. So that every thinking man must allow that God hath been with us of a truth and that his glory dwells in our land. I am your sincere friend and brother in Christ September 10, 1776 DJ to Mr. T. R. End of Section 22 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 23 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording. LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1, Section 23 The following letter, which relates to the same work, was written some time after. To the Reverend Mr. Wesley June 24, 1778 Reverend and Dear Sir, you have the narrative of the Reverend Mr. J. I send this as a supplement to it. At our little conference held in Philadelphia May 1775, Mr. S. was appointed assistant for Brunswick Circuit in Virginia. He found there about 800 joined together, but in a very confused manner. Many of them did not understand the nature of meeting in class and many of the classes had no leader. He resolved to begin in good earnest, and the preachers with him were like-minded. Their constant custom was, as soon as preaching was over, to speak to all the members of the society one by one. If the society was large, one preacher spoke to a part and he that came next to the rest. By this means they learned more of our doctrine and discipline in a year than in double the time before. The fruit soon appeared. The congregations swiftly increased and many were pricked to the heart. Many that were a little affected desired to see the nature of meeting in class, and while one was speaking either to those that were groaning for redemption or those who had found peace with God, these were frequently cut to the heart and sometimes enabled on the spot to praise a pardoning God. Sometimes four, five, or six found peace with God before the meeting was over. The work of God thus increasing on every side, more preachers were soon wanting, and God raised up several young men who were exceeding useful as local preachers. After Mr. S had been about eight months in the circuit, Mr. J desired his parish might be included in it, that all who chose it were in class and being members of the society. He soon saw the salutary effects. Many that had but small desires before began to be much alarmed and labored earnestly after eternal life. In the little time numbers were deeply awakened and many tasted of the pardoning love of God. In a few months Mr. J saw more fruit of his labors than he had done for many years with the preachers hand in hand both in doctrine and discipline. When Mr. S took an account of the societies before he came to the conference in 1776 they contained 2,664 persons to whom 1,800 were added in one year. Above a thousand of these had found peace with God many of whom thirsted for all the mind that was in Christ and divers believed God had circumcised their heart to love Him with all their heart and with all their soul. This revival of religion spread through 14 counties in Virginia and through Butte and Halifax counties in North Carolina. At the same time we had a blessed outpouring of the spirit in several counties bordering upon Maryland. Our conference was at Baltimore town on the 22nd of May. Here I received a letter from Mr. J part of which I insert. I praise God for His goodness in so plentifully pouring out of His spirit on men, women, and children. I believe three score in and near my parish have believed, through grace, since the quarterly meeting. Such a work I never saw with my eyes. Sometimes twelve, sometimes fifteen find the Lord at one class meeting. I am just returned from meeting two classes. Much of the power of God was in each. My dear partner is now happy in God her Savior. I clap my hands exulting and praise God. Blessed be the Lord that ever He sent you and your brethren into this part of His vineyard. Many children from eight to twelve years old are now under strong convictions, and some of them are savingly converted to God. I was much comforted this morning at the W. O. Chapel. The people there are of a truly teachable spirit, those particularly who profess to have obtained the pure love of God. They are as little children. When you consider how the work is spreading on every side, you will readily excuse me from being at your conference. Monday, June twenty-four. I left Leesburg in company with W. B., a truly devout man who now rests from his labors, and came to Petersburg on Saturday the twenty-ninth, where I preached about three in the afternoon, and then rode on to Mr. B.'s about ten miles farther. A little company was waiting for me, and God was with us of a truth. Sunday, thirty. I was comforted by the sight of my dear brother, S., but I was weak in body through riding so far in extreme heat, and much exercised in mind, and did not know how I should be able to go through the labor of the day. We went to the chapel at ten, where I had liberty of mind, and strength of body beyond my expectation. After preaching, I met the society, and was more relieved, both in body and mind. At four in the afternoon, I preached again from body and open door, and none can shut it. I had gone through about two-thirds of my discourse, and was bringing the words home to the present. Now, when such power descended, that hundreds fell to the ground, and the house seemed to shake with the presence of God. The chapel was full of white and black, and many were without that could not get in. Look wherever we would, we saw nothing but streaming eyes, and faces bathed in tears, and heard nothing but groans and strong cries after God and the Lord Jesus Christ. My voice was drowned amidst the groans and prayers of the congregation. I then sat down in the pulpit, and both Mr. S. and I were so filled with the divine presence that we could only say, This is none other than the house of God. This is the gate of heaven. Husbands were inviting their wives to go to heaven, wives their husbands, parents their children, and children their parents, brothers their sisters, and sisters their brothers. In short, those who were happy in God themselves were for bringing all their friends to him in their arms. This mighty effusion of the spirit continued for above an hour, in which time many were awakened, some found peace with God, and others his pure love. We attempted to speak or sing again and again, but no sooner we began than our voices were drowned. It was with much difficulty that we at last persuaded the people as night drew on to retire to their own homes. Tuesday, July 2. I rode with Mr. S. to Mr. Jay's, who with Mrs. Jay received us with open arms. I preached the next day not far from his house to a deeply attentive congregation. Many were much affected at the preaching, but far more at the meeting of the society. Mr. Jay himself was constrained to praise God aloud for his great love to him and to his people. Sunday, 7. I preached at W's chapel about twenty miles from Mr. Jay's. I intended to preach near the house under the shade of some large trees, but the rain made it impracticable. The house was greatly crowded and four or five hundred stood at the doors and windows and listened with unabated attention. I preached from Ezekiel's vision of the dry bones, and there was a great shaking. I was obliged to stop again and again and beg of the people to compose themselves, but they could not. And some on their faces were crying mightily to God all the time I was preaching. Hundreds of negroes were among them, with the tears streaming down their faces. The same power we found in meeting the society and many were enabled to rejoice with joy unspeakable. In the cool of the evening I preached out of doors and many found an uncommon blessing. Every day the ensuing week I preached to large and attentive congregations. Indeed the weather was violently hot and the fatigue of writing and preaching so often was great. But God made up all this to me by His comfortable presence. Thursday 11 I preached to a large congregation at the preaching house near Mr. Jay's. After preaching at several places on Friday and Saturday on Sunday 14 I came to Mr. B's and met the society. The congregation was, as before, abundantly larger than the chapel could contain. And we had almost such a day as 14 days ago only attended with a more deep and solemn work. What a work is God working in this corner of Mr. Jay's parish. It seemed as if all the country for nine or ten miles round were ready to turn to God. In the evening I rode to Mr. S's and found a whole family fearing and loving God. Mr. S, a sensible and judicious man, had been for many years a justice of the peace. By hearing the truth as it is in Jesus, he and his wife first, and then all his children, had attained that peace that passeth all understanding. He observed how amazing the change was which had been lately wrought in the place that before the Methodists came into these parts, when he was called by his office to attend the court, there was nothing but drunkenness, cursing, swearing, and fighting, most of the time the court sat. Whereas now nothing is heard but prayer and praise and conversing about God and the things of God. Monday, 15. I rode towards North Carolina. In every place the congregations were large and received the word with all readiness of mind. I know not that I have spent such a week since I came to America. I saw everywhere such a simplicity in the people with such a vehement thirst after the word of God that I frequently preached and continued in prayer till I was hardly able to stand. Indeed there was no getting away from them while I was able to speak one sentence for God. Sunday, 21. I preached at Roanoke Chapel to more than double of what the house would contain. In general the white people were within the chapel and the black people without. The windows being all open everyone could hear and hundreds felt the word of God. Many were bathed in tears and others rejoicing with joy unspeakable. When the society met many could not refrain from praising God aloud. I preached to a large company in the afternoon and concluded the day with prayer and thanksgiving. Tuesday, 23. I crossed the Roanoke river and preached at a chapel in North Carolina and I preached every day to very large and deeply attentive congregations although not without much labor and pain through the extreme heat of the weather. On Tuesday, 30 was our quarterly meeting. I scarce ever remember such a season. No chapel or preaching house in Virginia would have contained one-third of the congregation. Our friends knowing this had contrived to shade with boughs of trees a space that would contain two or three thousand persons. Under this, wholly screened from the rays of the sun we held our general love feast. It began between eight and nine on Wednesday morning until noon. Many testified that they had redemption in the blood of Jesus even the forgiveness of sins and many were unable to declare that it had cleansed them from all sin. So clear, so full, so strong was their testimony that while some were speaking their experience hundreds were in tears and others vehemently crying to God for pardon or holiness. About eight our watch night began. Mr. J. preached an excellent sermon. The rest of the preachers exhorted and prayed with divine energy. Surely for the work wrought on these two days many will praise God to all eternity. TR End of Section 23 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 24 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 Section 24 Thursday, January 2, 1777 My soul has had to wrestle with principalities and powers but by the grace of God in obstinately resisting the tempter I have come off more than conqueror and am now in peace. I was unable to speak plainly and closely at Mr. J. Lord's Day 5 After preaching and meeting the society I think the people were left more in earnest for the salvation of their souls than they were before. On Monday the Lord was the portion and comfort of my soul and I enjoyed a very agreeable and happy season with the little flock at W.W.'s. Tuesday, 7 The camp fever now rages much of which several have died. Thursday, 9 I have met with a few faithful happy souls both yesterday at Susquehanna and today at E.W.'s. My own soul lives constantly as in the presence of God and enjoys much of his divine favor. His love is better than life. My Jesus to know and feel his blood flow to his life everlasting to his heaven below. Lord's Day 12 There was but little appearance of feeling while I preached in the day from John 1.14 but my soul was much blessed in the evening at W.E.'s and it was a solemn time amongst the people. Monday, 13 We have constant rumors about the disagreeable war which was now spreading through the country but all these things I still commit to God. Matters of greater perpetuity call for the exertion of my mental powers. My soul is in a tranquil frame but thirsting for more of God. After preaching at S.L.'s I met the society which seemed but slow in their spiritual progress. Both the audience and myself were much more engaged the next day at I.P.'s. Thursday, 16 A certain person passed great incomiums and sounded my praise as a preacher to my face. But this is a dangerous practice for it is easier for a preacher to think too much of his gifts than too little. St. Paul describing the true Israelite Seith whose praise is not of men but of God. Saturday, 18 I've heard much of many attending on the Lord's days to hear T.C. but for my part I see but little fruit. My heart was warmly engaged today at Mr. F.'s and as some preachers met me in the evening we held a watch night at H.W.'s. There was a great number of people and it was a solemn, profitable time. Lord's Day, 19 In preaching at N.P.'s from Zephaniah I, 12, I was particularly led in the close of the sermon to address the younger part of the congregation in such a manner as greatly affected the parents who were present. Monday, 20 It is now a time of great and spreading sickness, but in this very time the Lord keeps me in health and safety for which my heart is drawn out in grateful acknowledgments. There were more people than could have been expected to hear the word at Mrs. P.'s. Tuesday, 21 A messenger from Mr. G.'s met me at the widow bees informing me that Mr. R. A. and Mr. G. S. were there waiting to see me. After preaching I set out and met my brethren the same night and found them inclined to leave America and embark for England. But I had before resolved not to depart from the work on any consideration. After some consultation it was thought best that Mr. R. A. should go to Mr. R. N. and request his attendance here. On Thursday Brother S. preached a very argumentative and melting sermon. I intended to have gone forward on my circuit but was prevented by the rain. Friday, 24 My heart has checked me for not being more watchful in company and conversation. But today my soul was greatly drawn out after God. How often do we grieve the Holy Spirit and deprive ourselves of divine consolations by not steadily attending to the duties of watching and prayer? Lord, help me to be more attentive and more faithful. Lord's Day, 26 After lecturing in Mr. G.'s family I wrote to the forks and preached there. Then through rain and cold and dirt to meet the congregation at Mr. C.'s and afterward returned to Mr. G.'s and lectured in the evening. And the Lord was with me to support and comfort me through all the exercises of the day. Monday, 27 My spirit was assaulted by Satan and felt itself in a heavy frame. But in the Lord I have help. As Brother G. S. is willing to take this circuit for the present, my intention is to move towards Annapolis and its adjacent parts. May divine providence direct my steps. I have had an agreeable conversation with my friend Mr. O. E. Friday, 31 I was moved to speak in alarming terms at W.L.'s but am not yet so steadily and spiritually devoted to God as my soul earnestly desires to be. Probably the Lord will be pleased to make me perfect through sufferings. Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us, if faithful to the grace of God. Who suffer with our master here we shall before his face appear and by his side sit down. To patient faith the prize is sure and all that to the end endure the cross shall wear the crown. Saturday, February 1 My soul is determined to labour more for the spirit of devotion. I found myself at liberty in preaching at the point on casting all your care upon him for he careth for you. Lord's Day, 2 The audience at the point were cold and unaffected and at town on Monday evening they were dispersed by the alarm of fire in the time of preaching. Tuesday, 4 After a season of temptations and spiritual exercises I found my mind disburdened and a holy, awful nearness to God. On Thursday I set out for Risterstown in order to meet Brother GS and calling in at Mr. W's where Brother K was then speaking. I also spoke a few words and found my soul refreshed. I met with Brother GS the next day and saw an affecting letter from Mrs. T. of Philadelphia in which, after she had given some account of the abounding wickedness of that city, she informed us of the declension of a few religious persons, of the fidelity of others, of the camp fever that was then prevailing there and that many died thereof sometimes twenty, thirty and even forty in a day. An awful account indeed. So it seems as if the Lord intends to bring us to our proper reflections and duties by the sword, the Lord, the pestilence and famine. Alas, who can stand before the displeasure of the Almighty? How much better would it be for men to please God and live in love to Him and one another, that they might partake of His blessing instead of His curse? Lord, grant Thy people wisdom and protection in all times of danger. Monday 10 I went to the quarterly meeting and met with Brother R.A. and Brother R.N. In our love-feast, several people were happy, but my mind was under a cloud and some severe exercises. However, I earnestly desire an increase of patience and communion with God. Oh, my Lord, scatter every cloud and cause Thy face to shine with beams of divine love upon my soul. Thursday 13 Mr. R.N. went to Baltimore, and on Friday I felt a desire to be laboring for the salvation of souls. I cannot be idle, but must be occupied till my Lord shall come. Oh, happy day when the weary shall be at rest. Lord, hasten Thy work in me and then hasten Thy coming to judgment or by death. Saturday 15 I have been reading some of both Greek and Hebrew, but my soul longeth to feel more deadness to everything but God, and an increase of spiritual light, life, and love. I now parted with Dear Brother G.S. On the Lord's Day I found freedom and warmth in preaching to a larger congregation than could have been expected at the widow ends. Monday 17 Rhoed to Mrs. R's and was grievously troubled with inward limitations. Oh, when shall I rest with my Jesus in eternal glory? Lord, I am oppressed. Undertake for me. Tuesday 18 It was a cold winter's day, but I rode 23 miles to Mr. G's and found one had been brought to God since my departure the last time. Several seemed to melt while I was discoursing on the vision of the dry bones. Thursday 20 The weather was exceedingly severe and I had 25 miles to ride, which almost benumbed both body and soul. But my mind was so exercised, by the way, with various and heavy temptations and such a deep sense of my demerit and unprofitableness that I thought my suffering was much less than my desert. Satan frequently assaults me on every side and with every species of temptations. Surely it is through great tribulation we must enter into the kingdom of God. The righteous have great cause to rejoice that a rest remaineth for them. Saturday 22 The burden of my ardent desire was to be more assimilated to my spiritual head and to be more abundantly devoted both day and night to the pure and uninterrupted service of my God. I would be thine, thou knowest I would, and have thee all my own, thee, oh my all sufficient good, I want, and thee alone. Lord's Day 23 After riding 20 miles to I.W.'s, I spoke from these words how long halty between two opinions. Many of the people displayed by their looks the carelessness of their hearts. But a few from among them have been brought to Christ and some more are coming. On Tuesday we had severe weather with a cold and dirty house, but my soul was much blessed in my little sufferings. On Wednesday I was kindly entertained by old Mr. M. and his wife, though a troublesome little Irishman seemed much inclined to altercation. But, as Solomon says, a soft answer turneth away wrath. So by coolness and meekness the ferocity of his temper resubdued. I've had some doubts of late whether I am in my proper route to bring souls to God. However, the event must make it manifest. Friday 28 My heart was unfettered and quite happy in God, while publishing glad tidings to poor sinners at Mr. H.'s, from Acts 13, 38, 39. I had appointed the next day to enter Annapolis, but great snow prevented me. Meeting with Brother H., who was about to enter upon the circuit, we took some sweet counsel together relative to the work of God. And I gave him a plan which comprehended the greater part of the circuit, reserving for myself and Annapolis, and a few places adjacent. My soul is now kept in peace and love. Lord's Day, March 2 Though the weather was very cold, several members of the convention attended to hear the word at the widow's. And I afterward preached in the playhouse, now converted into a church. In the beginning of the ensuing week I was requested to preach in the assembly room, but some of the members opposed it. So I returned to the playhouse and found my ideas contracted while preaching to a destical audience from Romans 8, 7, 8. Lord, if Thou hast called me to preach to these souls, grant me divine assistance. But how difficult it is to declare the plain truth to ungodly and sensual men in such a manner as not to be dismayed at their countenance. Our sufficiency is of God. Wednesday, 5 I had some hope for a poor ignorant people at Broadneck, on the other side of the Severn. My clothes were wet through in riding twenty miles the next day with my masterpiece, but I received no injury. Here I met with Mr. O. and William M., and my soul was blessed with delightful communion with God. Lord's Day 9 Preached at Mr. W.'s, and on Monday my heart was inflamed with divine love, and the people were much melted while I was discoursing at Mr. R.'s from Amos 5, 6, though my soul had been bowed down and by the grace of God I was ashamed before him, being base unworthy and contemptible in my own eyes. May the grace which thus abases me in due time exalt me and bring me to glory. Tuesday, 11 I met with a dull congregation at Mr. G.'s, and went home with Mr. T., who appeared to be the only thoughtful man amongst them. On Wednesday and on my way to Annapolis stopped at Mr. M. R.'s where a certain Mr. R. was taken sick. After I had conversed with him about his soul and the things of eternity, his conduct proved that God hath a witness for himself in every breast, for, awaking in the night, he uttered expressive groans and called upon the name of the Lord. But alas, when men should attend to the voice of divine grace, they speak of in silence, though frequently with great power, to every conscience, they shake off the disagreeable sensation and plunge into business and sensual pleasures, and when death comes, they plunge into hell. Thus it was with the rich man mentioned by our Lord in the parable, and thus it is with many every day. Unhappy creatures, how rich, how honorable, how easy, how happy once avails them nothing there. There they must dwell in eternal poverty and nakedness, exposed to the beating storms of the divine displeasure. Then how much better is it to choose affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasure of sin for a season? Thursday, 13. At W. M. C.'s many were much wrought upon by the Spirit of God under the word. A. W. especially was so deeply affected that she had scarce power to contain herself. I saw a fresh proof that the life of man is quite uncertain. A tobacco-house was blown down and killed a negro man. My heart was deeply engaged in prayer, especially for the inhabitants of Annapolis. My confidence in God was so great that I could trust him with my body and soul and all my little concerns. He makes me a partaker of his spiritual kingdom, righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. Friday, 14. My natural timidity depressed my mind at the thought of preaching in Annapolis where many people openly deny the Holy Scriptures as well as the power of inward religion. But the Lord inspired me with a degree of evangelical courage and I felt a determination to adhere to the truth and follow Jesus Christ if it should be even to prison or to death. Saturday, 15. Preaching in a private house in Annapolis, I found my spirit at liberty in a good degree. May the God of Daniel stand by me that I may never be ashamed to preach the pure gospel or even afraid to suffer for it. Lord's Day, 16. After preaching at the Widow-D's I rode back to Mr. H's and was not very agreeably entertained by a company of gay, worldly people. And as they must either imbibe something of my spirit or I something of theirs, if we were long together I thought it most expedient to depart in peace as soon as it was convenient and was much assisted and comforted in preaching from Acts 17, 30, 31. But felt myself weary and unwell at the close of the day. Monday, 17. Preaching when the House of Assembly was adjourned, many of them came to hear for themselves. The Lord was with me and I found my heart melted and expanded with love to the souls of the people. But by imprudently venturing out when warmed by preaching I have brought on a sore throat. On Tuesday I went to get a sight of the poor prisoners but could not obtain admittance. At Broad Creek on Wednesday there was a large company of wild and ignorant mortals who, after preaching, were communicating their thoughts to each other. Some said they did not like the doctrine, others said it was the truth, the very truth. Wednesday, 19. I wrote to major ours who treated me with great kindness and seemed desirous of knowing the truth. But the spirit of the times has engrossed too much of his attention. Our Lord has told us that some, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life. Luke 8, 14. No doubt but this description comprehends a vast multitude of mankind. They do not consider religion as the one thing needful. Thursday, 20. God, my throat was no worse but my mind was under some dejection. However, we had a powerful and profitable watch-night at Mr. Pease. And on Friday there were many attentive people at Mr. ours. Saturday, 22. As sure as we draw nigh to God in sincerity he will draw nigh to us. I have given myself to private prayer seven times a day and found my heart much drawn out in behalf of the preachers, the societies, especially the new places and my aged parents. And while thus exercised my soul has been both quickened and purified. Let the glory be given to God. But alas, after all, my heart is not so filled with generous gratitude as it should be. Eternal are thy mercies, Lord. Eternal truth attends thy word. Thy praise shall sound from shore to shore till suns shall rise and set no more. Lord's Day, 23. My mind was delightfully fixed on God. A few people who in dullness and religious stupidity exceeded all I had ever seen came to hear me today. But would they sincerely seek after God, they should find the way to heaven. For the Prophet saith, A fool shall not air heaven. Thursday, 27. I have been variously exercised with the carelessness of the people and the troubles of the times, though my soul has had intimate access to God. I received a letter from Brother S intimating that, according to rule, the time was drawing near for us to return. But St. Paul's rule is that our spiritual children should be in our hearts to live and die with them. 2 Corinthians 7, 3. Then, doubtless, we should be willing to suffer affliction with them. May the Lord give me wisdom sufficient to direct me in this and every intricate case. Lord's Day, 30. The congregation was large at Mr. D's, and some of them felt the power of the word. Though, in the afternoon, at a schoolhouse near Annapolis, there was very little appearance of spiritual feeling. On Monday I was under some exercise of mind in respect to the times. My brethren are inclined to leave the continent, and I do not know but something may be propounded to me which would touch my conscience. But my determination is to trust in God and be satisfied if the souls of my fellow men are saved. A gentile woman met me today on the road to IH's and asked me if I should not preach in town. I had not the presence of mind to tell her I had no place there to preach in. Wednesday, April 2. Having received information that some of my brethren had determined on their departure, I wrote to Brother S. that as long as I could stay and preach without injuring my conscience, it appeared as my duty to abide with the flock. But I must confess Satan has harassed me with violent and various temptations. However, my dependence is on the Lord, that he will always enable me to do what is right in the sight of God and man. I had about 22 miles to ride today and to call by the way to preach. Though both hungry and weary, yet my soul was much blessed in dispensing the word. Thursday, April 3. My soul had peace and my body had rest. But Satan was still at hand. We had a comfortable watch night at Mr. Pease. On Friday, my heart was dissolved into tenderness while preaching at Mr. R's. Saturday, May 5. Mr. M. gave me an awful account of a man struck instantly dead at Deer Creek. The very relation of his crime is enough to make a man shudder. He had been cursing the Holy Spirit. This is a striking proof that God is not an inattentive indicator of the actions of men, though most men live as if they thought he were. No. For God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12.14 Much temptation has urged me to much prayer so that I have lately retired as often as 10 or 12 times a day to call upon my God. When the tempter finds that his violent assaults only drive us nearer to God, perhaps he will not be so maliciously officious. Monday, 7. Satan seemed determined, if possible, to distract if he could not destroy me. Even blasphemous thoughts have been darted into my imagination. But I know where my help is to be found. Let our imaginations be ever so horrid and haunt us ever so frequently, provided we hate them and constantly resist them. They are not imputed to us. But we may still rejoice in God in the midst of them all. It is enough for the servant to be as his Lord, who was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Glory to God, he hath promised that we shall not be tempted above that we are able, though sometimes it may be to the extent of our ability. But will with the temptation also make way to escape, that we may be able to bear it? 1 Corinthians 10, 13. I have now read Newton on the prophecies three times over. Tuesday, 8. There was a large company of wild-looking people at Mr. G's on the fork of Patuxent River, and there was much such a congregation the next day at Mr. C's. Thursday, 10. My soul was much refreshed in speaking to the people at C B's, and on Friday I met with Mr. H N, and received a letter from Mr. R N, in which, after he had given me an account of the circuits and societies, he assigned his reasons for not traveling much for about the space of two months past. Lord's Day, 13. After preaching at Mr. D's, I found much freedom in preaching to a large company at Annapolis, and had an invitation to go into Worcester County. End of Section 24, Recording by Brian Keenan. Section 25 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Brian Keenan. Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1, Section 25. Monday, 14. This was a day of rest to my fatigued frame, and of consolation to my immortal part. On Tuesday there was great decency in the congregation at Annapolis, though Satan, by his emissaries, had raised an opposition. But Israel's God is above them all. Wednesday, 16. God was with us, and the people were happy at Mr. M's. On my way I called and dined with Mr. R, who gave great attention to my explanatory and pointed conversation on the new birth. Riding after preaching to RP's, my chase was shot through, but the Lord preserved my person. The war is now at such a height that they are pressing men for the sea surface. Thursday, 17. One of our society died of a disorder in the throat and lungs, with only one day's illness. Such is the precarious tenure of life. But blessed are they that die in the Lord. May I always have my loins girded about, and my light burning, waiting for the will of my Lord. God has displayed great wisdom and goodness in hiding future events from man, that we may live without that painful anxiety which we should be apt to feel at the hour of our death, and that we may be always ready to meet the unknown period. Saturday, 19. My soul was much blessed at RS's, in preaching from the divine expostulation Why Will Ye Die? Mr. ID invited me to lodge at his house, and treated me with great kindness. Lord's Day, 20. After preaching at Mr. W's, I rode about 20 miles to lodge with a friend. But seeing a boy plowing by the roadside, my conscience smote me for breaking the Sabbath, by riding when there was no real necessity for it. Monday, 21. My heart was comforted in the company of an old friend. But on Tuesday Satan raged against my soul, as if he would immediately destroy it. But my divine protector is too strong for him. I asked my soul in the evening while I was describing the faithful and wise servant. Wednesday, 23. I found myself very unwell on my going to TW's, but my spirit was at liberty in preaching. Though still unwell, I rode 20 miles to IW's on Thursday, and was blessed with a tranquil mind by the way. Satan cast several infernal darts at my soul, and enabled to repel them by the shield of faith and the power of prayer. Saturday, 26. A very gentile, polite company assembled at Annapolis, and though I spoke with great plainness, they bore it well. Lord's Day, 27. After meeting the congregation at the Widowdees, I found a large company at Annapolis who gave good attention to me, but I fear they were not disposed by God. My mind has been grieved at some who call themselves friends to religion and to the Methodists. But alas, how blind and ignorant is the unchanged mind of man. How little does he consider what will please or displease his maker. I still desire to have every action, word, thought, and desire entirely devoted to God. Lord, hastened the much-wished four-hour. Thou my life, my treasure be, my portion here below. Nothing would I seek but Thee. Thee only would I know. Monday, 28. About two hundred careless-looking people came to hear the word at Pigpoint. They seemed entire strangers to such a doctrine, so some laughed and others wept. I rode fifty miles in going and coming to preach that sermon. But hope it was not altogether labor lost. Friday, May 2. At Mr. R's I spoke closely and pointedly for the last time during this visit. Then rode through the rain and darkness to Mr. W's, and felt my heart sweetly melted with gratitude and thanksgiving to God. On Monday I went to S.T.'s and met my brethren at the Frederick Quarterly Meeting where we were favored with the Divine Blessing. Wednesday, 7. A letter came to hand from Mr. J. which gave us hopes that there would be another revival in Virginia. He also advised us to take no immature steps which might have a tendency to alter our plan. After preaching the next day at R.S.'s, T.D. invited me to his house. I found that he and his wife were seeking to be justified by the deeds of the law, and I labored with undissembled freedom to convince them of their error, but it appeared to be labor in vain. Saturday, 10. At Annapolis the congregation was small, and so was my power to preach. My soul has been kept in a calm and comfortable frame, but panting for more constant fervor towards God. Lord's Day, 11. Many attended at the Widow D's to hear what I would say on my departure. I spoke from 13.46, and many seemed much affected. The congregation was also large at Annapolis, where I spoke in plain terms to the rich and the gay on our Lord's awful account of the rich man and Lazarus. They behaved well, and some were desirous to know if I intended to come again. Monday, 12. Set out for our yearly conference, and having preached at Mr. Pease, by the way, came safe to Mr. Pease, and was glad to see the preachers who were there. We had some weighty conversation on different points, and among other things it was asked whether we could give our consent that Mr. R. should baptize as there appeared to be a present necessity. But it was objected that this would be a breach of our discipline, and it was not probable that things would continue long in such a disordered state. The next day, with great harmony and joint consent, we drew draft for stationing the preachers the ensuing year. And on Friday, we conversed on the propriety of signing certificates of ouching good conduct for such of the preachers as chose to go to Europe. But I cannot see the propriety of it at this time. We also conversed on such rules as might be proper for the regulation of the preachers who abide on the continent. And it was judged necessary that a committee should be appointed to attend the whole. And on Monday, we wrote together to attend the conference at Deer Creek. So greatly has the Lord increased the number of traveling preachers within these few years that we have now 27 who attend the circuits, and 20 of them were present at this conference. Both our public and private business was conducted with great harmony, peace, and love. Our brethren who intend to return to Europe agreed to stay till the way is quite open. I preached on the charge which our Lord gave his apostles. Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Be, therefore, wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Our conference ended with a love feast and watch night. But when the time of parting came, many wept as if they had lost their firstborn sons. They appeared to be in the deepest thinking as I suppose they should not see the faces of the English preachers anymore. This was such a parting as I never saw before. Our conference has been a great time, a season of uncommon affection. And we must acknowledge that God has directed, owned, and blessed us in the work. A certificate, as mentioned above, had been acceded to and signed in the conference. Lord's Day 25 My soul was quickened in preaching at the bush chapel. I lodged at Mr. D's and the next day collected my writings and letters in order to preserve them. On Tuesday went to Mr. G's and on Wednesday began to read regularly Mr. Wesley's notes. Thursday 29 We had a profitable meeting at Gunpowder Neck. And on Friday I returned to preach at Mr. G's where we had a small congregation. Saturday 31 The spirit of grace was with me, but I longed for a more active life to be constantly employed in bringing souls to God. Lord's Day June 1 The Lord enlarged my heart and opened a door of utterance while preaching to a numerous congregation at the forks. And there were some among them who had for a long time been detained at Jesus from hearing us. But I could not find the same liberty at Mr. G's in the latter part of the day. Tuesday 3 As the heart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God, though I have been at times sorely beset by temptations. But shall I ever yield to the tempter and sin against my Lord? No. Thursday 5 Having been ten days off and on at Mr. G's, I set out today for Ices and preached by the way at P.H.'s. On Friday I laid aside my wig and began to use the cold bath for my health, and rode as far as Mrs. R's who was a mother in Israel and both a friend and mother to me. After many heavy trials my soul was comforted but earnestly desirous of more purity and fellowship with God. Saturday 7 Some seemed to feel the weight of divine truths at Risterstown, and on the Lord's day my heart was melted and expanded towards the people at Brother C's. Monday 9 I met Brother G's at Mr. C's and preached on Acts 16 30 31. Then called to see a sick person and returned to Brother C's. Wednesday 11 I preached in town on these affecting words. How shall I give the up E-frame? And on Thursday entering my circuit at Mr. P's we had a heart affecting season and a few joined the society. Friday 13 We had great harmony and love in our increasing society at ours. Lord's Day 15 There was a large attentive audience in a schoolhouse on Elk Ridge, where I preached with usual energy and affection on Amos 4 11 and hoped the time of favouring the souls of both rich and poor is now approaching. But after so great a blessing Satan, as if moved with envy attempted to wound me with his fiery darts. This was probably permitted by my gracious Lord lest I should be exalted above measure. Brother G's came to accompany me into Virginia to fetch our clothing and books. Monday 16 We set out and rode to ST's where we received this strange relation. A person in the form of a man came to the house of another in the night. The man of the house asked what he wanted. He replied, this will be the bloodiest ear that ever was known. The other asked how he knew. His answer was, it is as true as your wife is now dead in her bed. He went back and found his wife dead. But the stranger disappeared. On Monday we went to Brother AM's and on Wednesday to BF's, a kind man, but his ideas of religion were confused. Thursday we rode to Leesburg and found that Brother BLE had just departed from this world of trouble and danger. My spirit was much drawn out towards God and the souls of the people while preaching on Matthew 24 45, etc. Tuesday we went on to Frederick where I showed the people the danger of postponing their duties to God from Amos 4 11. The next day we rode 45 miles to Risterstown and came in about 7 o'clock. Wednesday 25 By invitation I visited an ID who was very ill and hope it will be followed by the operations of the Holy Spirit and prove a permanent blessing to his soul. Then rode on to IW's and found myself unwell but happy in God. Friday 27 I went to Mr. H's and intended to preach in Annapolis but there was no house open for me. The next day two of the members of the assembly promised to use their influence to bring me a house to preach in but expected they could not succeed. Alas what have I done? Whose ox or ass have I taken or whom have I defrauded? But the Lord permits it to be so. Therefore I peaceably submit and will not fear the face of man nor even a prison while employed in the cause of God and of truth. However contrary to my expectation I preached in the church though the congregation was small and the soldiers made a great noise before the door. I then concluded to preach the next time in the commons. But the rain which fell the next day prevented me and there were but few people at Mrs. D's. Tuesday July 1 the Lord blessed me with joy and peace in believing and I was enabled to cast all my care upon him. I have been with Mr. Pease about 20 miles and have been much delighted in reading Dr. Watts' treatise on the rest of separate spirits and Mr. Baxter's Saints Rest. In these books we find the marrow of Methodism that is pure religion and sound doctrine which cannot be condemned Wednesday too. Satan still manifests death a desire to sift me as wheat but the Lord supports me with peace. A lowering cloud hangs threatening over our heads but all my trust is in the Lord who hath stood by and preserved me for many years and will stand by me still. Thursday 3 I wrote about 12 miles and preached a funeral sermon on the death of Mr. W. It was a very affecting time both to me and the congregation but after I had read the rules of society I told them my doubts and communicated my ideas of the approaching troubles which produced a great melting amongst them. Saturday 5 I had some conversation with Mr. My but it was to no purpose for he was still inflexible. Perhaps I have been too forward in taking his part before and now he requites me for it. Lord's Day 6 There was a very serious congregation in the forenoon where I enforced our Lord's affectionate declaration Matthew 23.37 but in the latter part of the day about 11 miles distant from the other place the people seemed to be stupid and inattentive. As I have thought bacon was prejudicial to my health I have lately abstained from it and have experienced the good effects of this economy. My soul has been kept in great purity and ardent pantings after more of God. Monday 7 In the evening D.R. and Brother H came and brought me some account of the preachers whom I love in the bowels of Christ with much affection. We spent the next day together in love and to edification and on Wednesday they set out for Virginia and I for Annapolis. My spirit was somewhat dejected by the way with a fear that the people would reject the gospel of Jesus Christ to their own destruction. But these matters must be left to the Lord who will judge the world in righteousness. I met a very insensible company at Mr. C's and labored to fasten the truth on their hearts from Malachi 3.7 but it appeared to be labor in vain. Thursday 10 They received me at Mr. H's better than I expected and some were touched by the power of grace. There was an opportunity on Friday of speaking at least to the judgment of some rich and honorable men on Psalm 4.6.7 There be many that say who will show us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Thou hast put gladness in my heart more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. My heaviness of spirit was almost removed and my soul was free and happy in God. Lord's Day 13 Though I spoke closely and plainly at Mrs. D's, yet the audience did not seem properly to understand me. I had intended to preach in the commons this afternoon but the rain prevented it so I preached to a few desirous souls at Mr. H's. But my spirit is grieved within me to see such multitudes of people in these parts so forgetful and filled with the spirit and conversation of this world. Poor souls, if they were only convinced of their sinful and lost estate, their disposition and conversation would be immediately changed. My work at present is very heavy. It is chiefly among unawakened people. I have devised what I could to bring them to God and know not what new method to take. May the Lord take the work into his own hand. Monday 14 There were forty or fifty chiefly women to hear the word at Annapolis to whom I showed if our gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost in whom the God of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ who is the image of God should shine unto them. Though I spoke freely, yet two of them seemed to feel it. On Tuesday my soul was under deep exercises. I am often purposing to pursue with greater ardour the summit of holiness, but still come short. Wednesday 16 At a place ten miles from Annapolis there was some melting of heart under the word. I afterward met the class and then returned with my mind fixed on God and sweet nearness of soul to him. Thursday 17 The spirit of the Lord was with me in preaching at Mr. Pease and there was a great moving among the society. Blessed be God for all things. My body has been intolerable health and my soul frequently refreshed with the dew of heavenly grace. My meditations in the Hebrew Bible have afforded me great pleasure. This is the book I study for improvement. Lord's Day 20 Both at the schoolhouse where I called on the people to consider their ways from Haggai 1.5 and at Mr. R's where I showed them from Ezekiel 33.31 how many of old time heard the word of the Lord but did it not. There was very little appearance of anything more than attention though I never labored more earnestly to do good. It seems as if a judicial stupidity prevails among them. Monday 21 Heard Mr. Rankin preach his last sermon. My mind was a little dejected and I now felt some desire to return to England but was willing to commit the matter to the Lord. There was a large congregation and some prospect of good things at Mr. S's where I told the people from the authority of Jesus Christ accept ye repent likewise perish. Luke 13.3 Wednesday 23 God was still my object and my hope but I have lamented my backwardness in doing good by private conversation which is in a great measure owing to the natural bashfulness of my disposition. After visiting some poor people to pray and talk with them on the important subject of their salvation I rode to seas south river but it is a miserable, stupid careless neighborhood so I bid it farewell. Thursday 24 There were many gay and giddy looking folks to hear the word of the Lord and a few of them were serious and affected. Poor souls they are real objects of pity. Both their education and the circle of their acquaintance have a tendency to make them forget their latter end with all the strength of their minds to present objects. Friday 25 We kept our general fast as appointed by conference and my soul was enabled to cast all its little cares both spiritual and temporal on him that careth for me. May the Lord direct me how to act so as to keep myself always in the love of God. I have lately been reading an account of Theodosius and his sons and all of the ancient fathers which also communicates much information relative to the eastern and western empires for about 300 years so long were idolatry and Arianism kept out of the Church of Christ and while Chrysostom was bishop an Arian church was burnt at Constantinople but since that time absolute unconditional predestination has made its way into the church which nullifies all laws human and divine for if men cannot do otherwise than they do why should any law inflict punishment for their crimes? Must quadrupeds be punished because they do not fly? How easily might men believing this doctrine ascribe their envy, malice and most cruel inclinations to the effect of divine predestination and conclude that their most malignant dispositions eternally decreed and therefore not to be conquered but complied with though they should produce the most pernicious and destructive consequences in human society End of Section 25 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 26 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 Section 26 Saturday, 26 My soul was composed and in pursuit of more of God Having read the Conquest of Rome by Alaric and the Rending of the Western Empire by the Goths I was led to observe how part of the revelation of Saint John was then fulfilled but much more of this is yet to come Lord's Day 27 After explaining the parable of the sower at Mrs. D's I preached at Annapolis to a large company some serious and some gay and trifling on these compassionate words of Christ How often would I have gathered thy children together and ye would not Monday, 28 As the rain prevented my attending the appointment I visited the jail and found an unhappy mortal under sentence of death who was very ignorant but so susceptible of religious advice that he was melted into tears and shook like a leaf Tuesday, 29 The Lord discovered to my view a greater depth of holiness and my soul thirsted for it I met with Brother H who had been to Virginia where the work of God was of conscience about taking the test oath was obliged to return May the Lord direct us all how to pursue the most wise and prudent measures The next day I preached at Magity where the work of God goes on successfully Thursday, 31 At Mr. P's there were about a hundred souls who seemed much alive to God Here I appointed a quarterly meeting at Love Feast More and Frederick next Saturday, 4th night Friday, 1 August The Lord gave me spiritual peace but my soul was on stretch for a greater degree of holiness and deeper communion with God I pant to feel thy sway and only thee to obey Thee my spirit gasps to meet This my one my ceaseless prayer Make, O make my heart thy seat O set up thy kingdom there I have now finished reading 16 volumes of the universal history Lord's Day, 3 In the forenoon the poor rich sinners were very attentive in the schoolhouse on Elk Ridge and it is possible the Lord may raise a people among them to fear and love him But at Mr. R's in the afternoon the congregation was very dull though I spoke strong words from the Almighty's awful declaration concerning the ungodly These shall go away into everlasting punishment Monday, 4 Road 37 miles to the Frederick Quarterly meeting without breaking my fast and was under the necessity of preaching when I arrived The next day our meeting began with the Love Feast and we had a powerful melting time Friday, 8 Having visited my friends in Baltimore I rode to Mr. G's met Mr. R and had some agreeable conversation on the work of God in different parts of America Went the next day to the Forks where I met with Brother G's in great harmony and found divine assistance in dispensing the word Monday, 11 We settled all our little affairs in the Spirit of Love and Brother S partly agreed to go with me to the Quarterly meeting but alas though my confidence in Christ was not shaken yet I felt myself less than the least in the company and unworthy of the favor of both God and man How merciful is God in giving us such abasing views of ourselves which have a powerful tendency to drive us closer to Him and keep us always in the dust Tuesday, 12 After I had publicly declared to the righteous the God whom we serve is able to deliver us we then had a solemn comfortable love feast and having done our business I returned to Mr. G's where many people attended to receive the word of truth and we have reason to believe the work of God is now reviving Wednesday, 13 was spent at Mr. G's and after some conversation I found Brother S was not to go with me because Mr. R did not choose to spend a quarter in Baltimore circuit indeed he has not taken a regular circuit since we have been in America so I was obliged to go into a new circuit with a young exhorter who had deserted me once before but all contentions wound my spirit so I passively submitted Thursday, 14 my mouth was opened and my heart was enlarged at WL's and I hope the word made a blessing to many souls Friday, 15 rode to Curtis's creek to hold a quarterly meeting there and the next morning we began with a love feast it was a time of great power and exceeded all we had ever seen in these parts there was something very admirable in the Christian simplicity of the people who spoke the language of warm and artless love Brother S preached a moving sermon on the tree and many sinners wept Lord's Day, 17 the rain prevented my going to the ridge and Brother S from going to Baltimore so we had a very melting time in discoursing on the subject of the Canaanite-ish woman and I believe Brother S was persuaded that he ought to be in this circuit with me Monday, 18 this was a day of much temptation but my deliverer was at hand at C.S.'s I found a few from the ridge who informed me that some attended yesterday in the rain hence I conclude many of them had a desire to be saved and that it is best for a preacher to attend his appointments if the apparent risk is not too great I preached to the people with much affection many felt the weight of the word and a young woman was convinced of sin Tuesday, 19 the pacific spirit of grace had possession of my willing heart after preaching at Mr. G's to a few souls as dull as usual I crossed the river in the rain and though I expected to feel the consequence yet suffered no injury Wednesday, 20 how unlike real Christians are some that bear the name the Lord hath enabled me of late to be faithful to the family which have come in my way and we must overcome our natural bashfulness and backwardness to assist the precious souls of our fellow men who are on the brink of endless ruin and see it not on Thursday both the public congregation and the class were powerfully melted at Mr. C's Lord's Day, 24 I was much fatigued by riding 25 miles and preaching twice a report that a British fleet was sailing up the Chesapeake Bay has induced many people to quit Annapolis Lord, give thy people faith and patience sufficient for their day of trial Monday, 25 my soul confided in God but was sweetly distressed with an ardent desire for more complete holiness I've lately read Walker's sermons with much pleasure we had an awful storm this evening at nine o'clock the thunder, lightning and sweeping winds were all in commotion with reverence I had turned my mind on the dread majesty and power of God who, by the elements in which we live contends with man such a scene as this was enough to strike the boldest sinner with terror and make him even shudder at a wicked thought and how dare wicked men sin at any time before a God so terrible is he less present at one time than another? no, verily but they desire not the knowledge of God their surprise must be great beyond all expression when disembodied they suddenly find themselves by woeful experience acquainted with nothing pertaining to their offended God but his inexorable justice and vengeful power of which the awful scenes we now behold in the contending elements are but a faint resemblance then how much better is it to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season happy the man whose hopes rely on Israel's God he made the sky and earth and seas with all their train his truth forever stands secure he saves the oppressed he feeds the poor and none shall find his promise vain Tuesday 26 TW informed me that they had made choice of me to preach in the garrison church but I shall do nothing that will separate me from my brethren I hope to live and die a Methodist Wednesday 27 though it rained I rode 25 miles to Magity but was tempted and shut up in my mind while endeavouring to announce if God be for us who can be against us but the next day my soul was happy at Mr. Pease and I admitted four persons into the society on trial the militia were now collecting from all quarters on the Lord's Day my soul was much drawn out and blessed in preaching on 1 John 2 16 17 perhaps it will not be in my power to preach much longer with a clear conscience but if it should be so my greatest concern would be for the people of God for many of the poor sinners seem deaf to all entreaties and I seem to be only a witness for God against them that their damnation may be just if they will not obey the gospel Monday, September 1 the Lord refreshed my own spirit while I encouraged the few faithful souls who were present from the words of our Lord fear not, woodle flock for it is your father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom Brother D. R. who had returned from Virginia met me today Wednesday 3 my soul was watered with a peaceful influence of divine grace but what I enjoyed was a stimulus urging me to groan for more I spent much of my time in reading Law's serious call and Baxter's call to the unconverted and think the latter is one of the best pieces of human composition in the world to awaken the lethargic souls of poor sinners my mind was under heavy exercises so I fasted and preached with much freedom at Mr. T's but it brought on a smart fever though I was much indisposed necessity was laid upon me to preach twice on Thursday which increased my fever and with indifferent lodging and the noise of children the night was very uncomfortable Lord's Day 7 After being blessed with a warm and comfortable season while preaching to a large company at Mr. H's I then rode to the widow peas where the word went to the hearts of the people with divine energy while I exposed to their view the polluted state of the natural man and pointed out the sovereign remedy Tuesday 9 my mind was so intensely bent on seeking after more of God that I devoted three hours to the exercise of private prayer and found myself much drawn out by the spirit of grace in holy wrestling and communion with God being informed that Sister S had slept in the Lord I congratulated her felicity happy soul she is taken away from the evil to come and gone to Abraham's bosom where the wicked cease from troubling and where the weary are at rest I have endeavored to banish all anxiety from my mind and devote much of my time to prayer and have reaped the gracious benefit thereof in my soul on Wednesday I went to Magadi and had a large congregation but found that some of our members had begun to backslide and that the society stood in need of purging Thursday 11 by a particular request I preached a funeral sermon at the burial of Mr. W. R there were a great many people and some of them were cut to the heart while I enforced Ecclesiastes 9 10 but afterward at Mr. Pease my mind was somewhat embarrassed Friday 12 in performing the last office for LS who was a Christian indeed I declared for the comfort of true believers the last enemy that shall be destroyed is death some attended on this occasion who had never heard a Methodist before and the Lord gave me utterance and power Monday 15 we have great commotions on every side but in the midst of war the Lord keeps my soul in peace my heart was warm in preaching at C.S.'s though the congregation seemed dull the two following days I had communion with God but not in such a degree as I wish to experience I long to comprehend the length and breadth and depth and height and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge that I may be filled with all the fullness of God to live the life above all the glorious life of love Thursday 18 at Mr. W.'s I met with Brother S.S. who informed me that the preachers in Virginia intended to abide there a while longer Brother S. preached twice and there was some small moving amongst the people Lord's Day 21 there was nothing remarkable under the word at Mr. T.'s but there was a large company some melting of heart at Mr. P.'s Monday 22 I met with Brother G.S. who informed me that my brethren, Mr. Rankin and Mr. Rhoda had left the continent so we are left alone but I leave myself in the hand of God relying on his good providence to direct and protect us persuaded that nothing will befall me but what shall conduce to his glory and my benefit there was both attention and concern in the congregation which was pretty large at Captain S.'s Lord's Day 28 Brother G.S. was unwell with an aegyo at Mr.'s town I urged the necessity of family duty and showed them how they should train up their children in the ways of the Lord Monday 29 my soul was stayed upon God for his unerring wisdom I wished to be so subject to my redeemer as to move in conformity to his divine will and in all my ways to acknowledge him as my God and my guide I spent part of my time the next day in reading Mr. Baxter's Gildus Salvianus an esteem it as a most excellent book for a gospel preacher Saturday, October 4 I rode 30 miles to G.B.'s to meet brother P.D. my mind was spiritually employed in reading, meditation and communion with God Lord's Day 5 the congregation at G.B.'s were dull but at B.G.'s there was a melting Tuesday, 7 the word seemed to be made a peculiar blessing to the believers at I.H.'s and the next day at Mr. K.'s the power of God was present while I feelingly urged the people from Hebrews 4, 16 let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need my spirit was also divinely animated in preaching afterwards at R.O.'s though I rode 20 miles between the two sermons several old professors felt the reviving influence of the grace of God and I was in hopes they would press on their way with renewed vigor such is the languid disposition of the human soul that even pure minds require a constant stimulation to keep them in the way of duty this is one reason why God permits our minds to be tempted by Satan and our bodies to be afflicted with diseases Saturday 11 I attended and spoke at the half-yearly meeting with the Germans and on the Lord's Day after preaching at Mrs. D.'s I returned to the meeting of the Germans where brother G.S. and myself both spoke Monday 13 commotions and troubles surrounded me without but the peace of God filled my soul within we seemed to be in a straight but my heart trusted in the Lord these distressing times induced many people to pay a more diligent attention to the things of God so I have hopes that these temporal troubles will prepare the way for spiritual blessings Wednesday 15 a heavy gloominess hung on my mind brother G.S. and I wrote to Mr. H.'s and after I had enforced these words therefore my beloved brethren be ye steadfast always abounding in the work of the Lord for as much as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord then brother S. exhorted and the hearts of the people melted under the power of the Word we likewise saw the merciful hand of God displayed the next day at Mr. W.'s on the bank of the Potomac Lord's Day 19 as I was unwell brother S. preached in the morning and there was a moving of the congregation he also preached in the afternoon at Mr. B.'s but it was to a large company of stupid souls Monday 20 after I had preached brother S. met the class and it was a very powerful season he also met a class afterward at Mr. S.R.'s and we were favored with a similar blessing this has been a day of spiritual and peaceful exercises to my soul at Mr. H.'s on Tuesday we were blessed with an extraordinary visitation of grace Thursday 30 we have been detained by heavy rains at W.S.'s for three days the times still wear a gloomy aspect but our trust is in the providence of a superintending God we have been greatly blessed and seen great displays of the divine goodness since we have been together and we have been made a blessing to each other we now left Mr. S.'s and rode to Rocky Creek Lord's Day, November 2 I cried in the morning to a large congregation at Mr. J. N.'s we pray you in Christ's stead be ye reconciled to God and in the afternoon at the sugarloaf why will ye die unlarged and blessed both times I then rode to G.G.'s which made about 20 miles in the day Monday 3 our quarterly meeting began and Brother S.'s preached on the subject of the barren fig tree on Tuesday we held our love feast at 9 and I preached at 12 our brethren O.G., C.S.G. and S.D. all spoke there were many friends from Virginia and the congregation was very large it was a powerful melting time and concluded in the spirit of love Wednesday 5 after riding 37 miles I came to Baltimore but was very weary though my mind was calmly stayed on God Friday 7 went to Mr. G.'s and on Saturday preached on 3 John 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth Lord's Day 9 after preaching with freedom of spirit and speech at the forks I returned to Mr. G.'s and declared ye are the salt of the earth my soul has been kept by the grace of God and calm on tumult wheels I sit Monday 10 we set out for the quarterly meeting at Deer Creek on Tuesday our love feast began at 10 and at half past 2 I began the public exercise from Hebrews 13 17 18 obey them that have the rule over you and submit yourselves for they watch for your souls as they that must give account that they may do it with joy and not with grief for this is unprofitable for you pray for us for we trust we have a good conscience and all things willing to live honestly the preachers were stationed without any trouble and all was done in harmony and love Wednesday 12 I rode back to Mr. G.'s in order to attend a quarterly meeting on Curtis' Creek the Lord has lately kept my soul in tranquil peace not much disturbed by Satan I now purposed by the grace of God as often as time will permit to read six chapters every day in my Bible Saturday 15 great numbers of people attended at the quarterly meeting preaching on Acts 14 22 I endeavored to imitate the apostles confirming the souls of the disciples and exhorting them to continue in the faith and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God the power of divine grace was greatly felt in the love feast and all our business was well conducted Lord's Day 16 having first preached at the widow H's I rode to Baltimore and preached there on Tuesday I was blessed in a visit to Mr. G.'s Wednesday 19 rode to Risterstown and found that God was my sufficient portion and my exceeding great reward I wanted nothing pertaining to this world more than I possessed neither clothing nor money nor food blessed be God for his parental love and tender care towards me nothing on earth I call my own a stranger to the world unknown I, all their goods, despise I trample on their whole delight and seek a country out of sight free in the skies End of section 26 Recording by Brian Keenan