Chapter 1
On loving our Neighbours as ourselves
On loving our neighbors as ourselves
When we love the Lord with all our Hearts, and his Creatures in his Love, we are then preserv'd in Tenderness both toward Mankind and the Animal Creation; but if another Spirit gets Room in our Minds, and we follow it in our Proceedings, we are then in the Way of disordering the Affairs of Society.
When we love the Lord with all our hearts and love his creatures with his love, we remain tender toward both people and animals. But if we let another spirit into our minds and follow it in our actions, we risk bringing disorder to society.
If a Man successful in Business expends Part of his Income in Things of no real Use, while the Poor employed by him pass through great Difficulties in getting the Necessaries of Life, this requires his serious Attention.
If a man succeeds in business, he may spend some of his income on things of no real use. If the poor people he employs struggle to afford life’s necessities while he does this, he should give the matter serious attention.
If several principal Men in Business unite in setting the Wages of those who work for Hire, and therein have Regard to a Profit to themselves answerable to unnecessary Expence in their Families, while the Wages of the other on a moderate Industry will not afford a comfortable Living for their Families, and a proper Education for their Children, this is like laying a Temptation in the Way of some to strive for a Place higher than they are in, when they have not Stock sufficient for it.
Suppose several leading businessmen join together to set wages for their workers. They seek enough profit to cover their families’ unnecessary expenses. Yet the wages they set will not provide workers with a comfortable living for their families and a proper education for their children, even if they work reasonably hard. This is like tempting some workers to seek a higher position when they do not have enough capital for it.
Now I feel a Concern in the Spring of pure Love, that all who have Plenty of outward Substance, may Example others in the right Use of Things; may carefully look into the Condition of poor People, and beware of exacting on them with Regard to their Wages.
Now, out of pure love, I feel a concern for all who have plenty of material wealth. May they set an example for others in using what they have rightly. May they carefully consider the condition of poor people and take care not to exploit them over their wages.
While hired Labourers, by moderate Industry, through the Divine Blessing, may live comfortably, raise up Families, and give them suitable Education, it appears reasonable for them to be content with their Wages.
When hired workers can live comfortably through moderate effort and God's blessing, it seems reasonable for them to be content with their wages. Their wages should also allow them to raise a family and give their children a suitable education.
If they who have Plenty love their Fellow Creatures in that Love which is Divine, and in all their Proceedings have an equal Regard to the Good of Mankind universally, their Place in Society is a Place of Care, an Office requiring Attention, and the more we possess, the greater is our Trust, and with an Increase of Treasure, an Increase of Care becomes necessary.
If those who have plenty love their fellow creatures with divine love and consider the good of all humanity equally in everything they do, their place in society is one of responsibility. It is a role that requires attention. The more we possess, the greater the trust placed in us. As our wealth increases, we must take greater care.
When our Will is subject to the Will of God, and in relation to the Things of this World, we have nothing in View, but a comfortable Living equally with the rest of our Fellow Creatures, then outward Treasures are no farther desirable than as we feel a Gift in our Minds equal to the Trust, and Strength to act as dutiful Children in his Service, who hath formed all Mankind, and appointed a Subsistence for us in this World.
When our will is subject to God's will, we seek only a comfortable living, equal to that of our fellow creatures. Then we desire worldly wealth only when we feel we have the gifts to handle that trust. We must also feel we have the strength to serve God as dutiful children. He created all humanity and provided for our needs in this world.
A Desire for Treasures on any other Motive, appears to be against that Command of our blessed Saviour, Lay not up for yourselves Treasures here on Earth, Mat. vi. 19.
Wanting treasures for any other reason seems to go against our blessed Savior's command: Do not store up treasures for yourselves here on earth, Matt. 6:19.
He forbids not laying up in the Summer against the Wants of Winter; nor doth he teach us to be slothful in that which properly relates to our being in this World; but in this Prohibition he puts in yourselves, Lay not up for yourselves Treasures here on Earth.
He does not forbid storing up provisions in summer for the needs of winter. Nor does he teach us to neglect what properly concerns our life in this world. But in this prohibition, he includes yourselves: Do not store up for yourselves treasures here on earth.
Now in the pure Light, this Language is understood, for in the Love of Christ there is no Respect of Persons; and while we abide in his Love, we live not to ourselves, but to him who died for us. And as we are thus united in Spirit to Christ, we are engaged to labour in promoting that Work in the Earth for which he suffer'd.
Now, in the pure Light, this language is understood, for the love of Christ makes no distinction between people. While we remain in his love, we live not for ourselves, but for him who died for us. And as we are united in spirit with Christ, we work to promote the work on earth for which he suffered.
In this State of Mind our Desires are, that every honest Member in Society may have a Portion of Treasure, and Share of Trust, answerable to that Gift, with which our Heavenly Father hath gifted us.
In this state of mind, we want every honest member of society to have a share of wealth and responsibility. Each share should match the gift our Heavenly Father has given us.
In great Treasure, there is a great Trust. A great Trust requireth great Care. But the laborious Mind wants Rest.
Great wealth brings great responsibility. Great responsibility requires great care. But the hard-working mind needs rest.
A pious Man is content to do a Share of Business in Society, answerable to the Gifts with which he is endowed, while the Channels of Business are free from Unrighteousness, but is careful lest at any Time his Heart be over-charg'd.
A devout man is content to do his share of work in society, according to his gifts, as long as that work is free from wrongdoing. But he is careful not to let his heart become burdened.
In the harmonious Spirit of Society Christ is all in all, Col. iii. 11.
In the harmonious spirit of society, Christ is all in all, Col. 3:11.
Here it is that old Things are past away, all Things are new, all Things are of God, 2 Cor. v. 17, 18, and the Desire for outward Riches is at an End.
Here, old things have passed away, all things are new, and all things are of God, 2 Cor. 5:17, 18. The desire for worldly riches also comes to an end.
They of low Degree who have small Gifts, enjoy their Help who have large Gifts; those with their small Gifts, have a small degree of Care, while these with their large Gifts, have a large degree of Care: And thus to abide in the Love of Christ, and enjoy a comfortable Living in this World is all that is aimed at by those Members in Society, to whom Christ is made Wisdom and Righteousness.
Those of low standing who have small gifts benefit from the help of those with large gifts. Those with small gifts have a small degree of responsibility, while those with large gifts have a large degree of responsibility. And so, for those members of society to whom Christ is wisdom and righteousness, all they aim for is to remain in Christ’s love and enjoy a comfortable living in this world.
But when they who have much Treasure, are not faithful Stewards of the Gifts of God, great Difficulties attend it.
But when wealthy people do not faithfully manage God's gifts, great difficulties follow.
Now this Matter hath deeply affected my Mind. The Lord, through merciful Chastisements, hath given me a Feeling of that Love, in which the Harmony of Society standeth, and a Sight of the Growth of that Seed which bringeth forth Wars and great Calamities in the World, and a Labour attends me to open it to others.
This matter has deeply affected me. Through merciful correction, the Lord has given me a feeling for the love that holds society together. He has also shown me the growth of the seed that brings war and great calamities into the world. I feel called to explain this to others.
Now to act with Integrity, according to that Strength of Mind and Body with which our Creator hath endowed each of us, appears necessary for all, and he who thus stands in the lowest Station, appears to be entitled to as comfortable and convenient a Living, as he whose Gifts of Mind are greater, and whose Cares are more extensive.
It seems necessary for everyone to act with integrity, according to the strength of mind and body our Creator has given each of us. A person who does so, even in the lowest position, seems entitled to a living just as comfortable and convenient as someone with greater mental gifts and wider responsibilities.
If some endowed with strong Understandings as Men, abide not in the harmonious State, in which we love our Neighbours as ourselves, but walk in that Spirit in which the Children of this World are wise in their Generation; these by the Strength of Contrivance may sometimes gather great Treasure, but the Wisdom of this World is Foolishness with God; and if we gather Treasures in Worldly Wisdom, we lay up Treasures for ourselves; and great Treasures managed in any other Spirit, than the Spirit of Truth, disordereth the Affairs of Society, for hereby the good Gifts of God in this outward Creation are turned into the Channels of Worldly Honour, and frequently applied to support Luxury, while the Wages of poor Labourers are such, that with moderate Industry and Frugality they may not live comfortably, raise up Families, and give them suitable Education, but through the Streightness of their Condition, are often drawn on to labour under Weariness, to toil through Hardships themselves, and frequently to oppress those useful Animals with which we are intrusted.
Some people are gifted with strong minds, yet do not remain in the harmonious state in which we love our neighbors as ourselves. Instead, they live by the spirit in which the children of this world are wise in their own generation. Through their ingenuity, these people may sometimes gather great wealth. But the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. If we gather wealth through worldly wisdom, we lay up treasures for ourselves. Great wealth managed in any spirit other than the Spirit of Truth disrupts society. God’s good gifts in the outward world are thereby directed toward worldly honor and often used to support luxury. Meanwhile, poor laborers are paid so little that moderate work and thrift cannot provide them with a comfortable living. Nor can they raise families and give their children a suitable education. Because of their hardship, they are often driven to work to exhaustion and endure hardship themselves. They are also often driven to overwork the useful animals entrusted to us.
From Age to Age, throughout all Ages, Divine Love is that alone, in which Dominion has been, is, and will be rightly conducted.
In every age, divine love alone has guided, guides, and will guide the proper exercise of authority.
In this the Endowments of Men are so employed, that the Friend and the Governor are united in one, and oppressive Customs come to an End.
In this, men use their abilities in such a way that the friend and the governor become one, and oppressive customs end.
Riches in the Hands of Individuals in Society, is attended with some degree of Power; and so far as Power is put forth separate from pure Love, so far the Government of the Prince of Peace is interrupted; and as we know not that our Children after us will dwell in that State in which Power is rightly applied, to lay up Riches for them appears to be against the Nature of his Government.
Wealth in the hands of individuals in society brings some degree of power. To the extent that power is exercised without pure love, the rule of the Prince of Peace is interrupted. We do not know whether our children after us will live in a state where power is rightly used. So saving up wealth for them seems contrary to the nature of his rule.
The Earth, through the Labour of Men under the Blessing of him who formed it, yieldeth a Supply for the Inhabitants from Generation to Generation, and they who walk in the pure Light, their Minds are prepared to taste and relish not only those Blessings which are spiritual, but also feel a Sweetness and Satisfaction in a right Use of the good Gifts of God in the visible Creation.
Through human labor and the blessing of its creator, the earth provides for its inhabitants from generation to generation. Those who walk in the pure light are prepared to appreciate spiritual blessings. They also find sweetness and satisfaction in the right use of God’s good gifts in the visible creation.
Here we see that Man's Happiness stands not in great Possessions, but in a Heart devoted to follow Christ, in that Use of Things, where Customs contrary to universal Love have no Power over us.
Here we see that happiness does not come from great possessions. It comes from a heart devoted to following Christ in how we use things, free from the influence of customs that go against love for all.
In this State our Hearts are prepared to trust in God, and our Desires for our Children and Posterity are, that they, with the rest of Mankind, in Ages to come, may be of that Number, of whom he hath said, I will be a Father to them, and they shall be my Sons and Daughters, 2 Cor. vi. 18.
In this state, our hearts are ready to trust in God. We desire that our children and descendants, along with the rest of humanity in ages to come, may be among those of whom he said, I will be a Father to them, and they shall be my Sons and Daughters, 2 Cor. vi. 18.
When Wages in a fruitful Land bear so small a Proportion to the Necessaries of Life, that poor honest People who have Families cannot by a moderate Industry attain to a comfortable Living, and give their Children sufficient Learning, but must either labour to a degree of Oppression, or else omit that which appears to be a Duty.
When wages in a fruitful land are so low compared with the cost of life’s necessities, poor, honest people with families cannot live comfortably and give their children enough education through moderate work. They must either work to an oppressive degree or leave undone what seems to be their duty.
While this is the Case with the Poor, there is an Inclination in the Minds of most People, to prepare at least so much Treasure for their Children, that they with Care and moderate Industry may live free from these Hardships which the Poor pass through.
While the poor face these hardships, most people want to leave their children enough wealth to live free from them, with care and moderate effort.
Now this Subject requireth our serious Consideration: To labour that our Children may be put in a Way to live comfortably, appears in itself to be a Duty, so long as these our Labours are consistent with universal Righteousness; but if in striving to shun Poverty, we do not walk in that State where Christ is our Life, then we wander; He that hath the Son, hath Life, 1 John v. 12. This Life is the Light of Men, 1 John 1. 4. If we walk not in this Light, we walk in Darkness, and he that walketh in Darkness, knoweth not whither he goeth, John xii. 35.
This subject calls for our serious consideration. It seems to be our duty to work so that our children can live comfortably. But this holds only as long as our efforts are consistent with righteousness toward all. If we try to avoid poverty without living in a state where Christ is our life, we go astray. Whoever has the Son has life, 1 John 5. 12. This life is the light of men, 1 John 1. 4. If we do not walk in this light, we walk in darkness. And whoever walks in darkness does not know where he is going, John 12. 35.
To keep to right Means in labouring to attain a right End is necessary: If in striving to shun Poverty, we strive only in that State where Christ is the Light of our Life, our Labours will stand in the true Harmony of Society; but if People are confident that the End aimed at is good, and in this Confidence pursue it so eagerly, as not to wait for the Spirit of Truth to lead them, then they come to Loss. Christ is given to be a Leader and Commander of the People, Isaiah lv. 4. Again; The Lord shall guide thee continually, Isaiah lviii. 12. Again; Lord, thou wilt ordain Peace for us, for thou also hast wrought all our Works in us, Isaiah xxvi. 12.
We must use the right means when working toward a right end. If we strive to avoid poverty only while Christ is the light of our lives, our work will be in true harmony with society. But people may be confident that their goal is good. If they pursue it so eagerly that they do not wait for the Spirit of Truth to lead them, they will suffer loss. Christ is given to be a leader and commander of the people, Isaiah lv. 4. Again, The Lord will guide you continually, Isaiah lviii. 12. Again, Lord, you will establish peace for us, for you have also done all our works in us, Isaiah xxvi. 12.
In the Lord have we Righteousness and Strength, Isaiah xlv. 24.
In the Lord we have righteousness and strength, Isaiah 45:24.
In this State our Minds are preserved watchful in following the Leadings of his Spirit in all our Proceedings in this World, and a Care is felt for a Reformation in general. That our own Posterity, with the rest of Mankind in succeeding Ages, may not be entangled by oppressive Customs, transmitted to them through our Hands; but if People in the Narrowness of natural Love, are afraid that their Children will be oppressed by the Rich, and through an eager Desire to get Treasures, depart from the pure Leadings of Truth in one Case, though it may seem to be a small Matter, yet the Mind even in that small Matter may be embolden'd to continue in a Way of Proceeding, without waiting for the Divine Leader.
In this state, our minds remain watchful as we follow the leadings of his spirit in all our activities in this world. We also feel a concern for reform in general. We want to prevent oppressive customs from passing through our hands to our descendants and the rest of humanity in future generations. But people may fear, in the narrowness of natural love, that the rich will oppress their children. In an eager desire to gain wealth, they may depart from the pure leadings of truth in one instance. Though it may seem a small matter, even that small departure may embolden them to continue acting without waiting for the divine leader.
Thus People may grow expert in Business, wise in the Wisdom of this World, retain a fair Reputation amongst Men, and yet being Strangers to the Voice of Christ, the safe Leader of his Flock, the Treasures thus gotten, may be like Snares to the Feet of their Posterity.
Thus people may become skilled in business, wise in the ways of the world, and well regarded by others. Yet they may not know the voice of Christ, the safe leader of his flock. The wealth they gain may then become a snare for their descendants.
Now to keep faithful to the pure Counsellor, and under trying Circumstances suffer Adversity for Righteousness Sake, in this there is a Reward.
There is a reward in remaining faithful to the pure Counselor and suffering hardship for the sake of righteousness in trying circumstances.
If we, being poor, are hardly dealt with by those who are rich, and under this Difficulty are frugal and industrious, and in true Humility open our Case to them who oppress us, this may reach the pure Witness in their Minds; and though we should remain under Difficulties as to the outward, yet if we abide in the Love of Christ, all will work for our Good.
If we are poor and treated harshly by the rich, we may still be frugal and hardworking despite these difficulties. If we humbly explain our situation to those who oppress us, this may reach the pure witness in their minds. And though we may still face outward difficulties, all will work for our good if we remain in Christ’s love.
When we feel what it is to suffer in the true suffering State, then we experience the Truth of those Expressions, that, as the Sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our Consolation aboundeth by Christ, 2 Cor. i. 5.
When we experience what it means to be in a true state of suffering, we find these words to be true: as Christ's sufferings abound in us, so our comfort also abounds through Christ, 2 Cor. 1:5.
But if poor People who are hardly dealt with, do not attain to the true suffering State, do not labour in true Love with those who deal hardly with them, but envy their outward Greatness, murmur in their Hearts because of their own Poverty, and strive in the Wisdom of this World to get Riches for themselves and their Children; this is like wandering in the Dark.
But poor people may be treated harshly without reaching the true state of suffering or working in true love with those who treat them harshly. Instead, they may envy those people’s worldly greatness and complain in their hearts about their own poverty. They may strive, using the wisdom of this world, to gain riches for themselves and their children. If they do these things, it is like wandering in the dark.
If we who are of a middle Station between Riches and Poverty, are affected at Times with the Oppressions of the Poor, and feel a tender Regard for our Posterity after us, O how necessary is it that we wait for the pure Counsel of Truth!
If we who are neither rich nor poor are sometimes moved by the oppression of the poor and care tenderly for those who will come after us, oh, how necessary it is to wait for the pure guidance of Truth!
Many have seen the Hardships of the Poor, felt an eager Desire that their Children may be put in a Way to escape these Hardships; but how few have continued in that pure Love which openeth our Understandings to proceed rightly under these Difficulties!
Many have seen the hardships of the poor and eagerly wanted to help their children escape those hardships. But how few have remained in that pure love which opens our understanding and helps us respond rightly to these difficulties!
How few have faithfully followed that Holy Leader who prepares his People to labour for the Restoration of true Harmony amongst our Fellow Creatures!
How few have faithfully followed the Holy Leader who prepares his people to work to restore true harmony among our fellow creatures!
In the pure Gospel Spirit we walk by Faith and not by Sight, 2 Cor. v. 7.
In the pure spirit of the Gospel, we live by faith, not by sight, 2 Corinthians 5:7.
In the Obedience of Faith we die to the Narrowness of Self-love, and our Life being hid with Christ in God, our Hearts are enlarg'd toward Mankind universally; but in departing from the true Light of Life, many in striving to get Treasures have stumbled upon the dark Mountains.
Through the obedience of faith, we die to the narrowness of self-love. With our lives hidden with Christ in God, our hearts open to all humanity. But many have turned away from the true light of life. In their efforts to gain treasure, they have stumbled on the dark mountains.
Now that Purity of Life which proceeds from Faithfulness in following the Spirit of Truth, that State where our Minds are devoted to serve God, and all our Wants are bounded by his Wisdom, this Habitation has often been open'd before me as a Place of Retirement for the Children of the Light, where we may stand separated from that which disordereth and confuseth the Affairs of Society, and where we may have a Testimony of our Innocence in the Hearts of those who behold us.
A pure life comes from faithfully following the Spirit of Truth. In such a life, our minds are devoted to serving God, and his wisdom sets the limits of all our wants. This way of life has often appeared to me as a place of retreat for the Children of the Light. There we may stand apart from what disrupts and confuses the affairs of society. There, too, those who see us may find evidence of our innocence in their hearts.
Through departing from the Truth as it is in Jesus, through introducing Ways of Life attended with unnecessary Expences, many Wants have arisen, the Minds of People have been employ'd in studying to get Wealth, and in this Pursuit some departing from Equity, have retain'd a Profession of Religion; others have look'd at their Example, and thereby been strengthen'd to proceed further in the same Way: Thus many have encourag'd the Trade of taking Men from Africa, and selling them as Slaves.
By departing from the truth as it is in Jesus and adopting ways of life with unnecessary expenses, people have created many wants. They have devoted their minds to finding ways to gain wealth. In this pursuit, some have acted unjustly while continuing to profess religion. Others have looked at their example and been encouraged to go further in the same way. Thus many have encouraged the trade of taking men from Africa and selling them as slaves.
It hath been computed that near One Hundred Thousand Negroes have of late Years been taken annually from that Coast, by Ships employed in the English Trade.
It has been estimated that, in recent years, ships in the English trade have taken nearly 100,000 Negroes from that coast each year.
As I have travell'd on religious Visits in some Parts of America, I have seen many of these People under the Command of Overseers, in a painful Servitude.
During my religious visits to parts of America, I have seen many of these people suffering under the control of overseers.
I have beheld them as Gentiles under People professing Christianity, not only kept ignorant of the Holy Scriptures, but under great Provocations to Wrath; of whom it may truly be said, They that rule over them make them to howl, and the Holy Name is abundantly blasphemed, Isaiah lii. 5.
I have seen them as Gentiles under people who profess Christianity. They are not only kept ignorant of the Holy Scriptures, but also greatly provoked to anger. Of them it may truly be said, Those who rule over them make them howl, and the Holy Name is greatly blasphemed, Isaiah lii. 5.
Where Children are taught to read the Sacred Writings, while young, and exampled in Meekness and Humility, it is often helpful to them; nor is this any more than a Debt due from us to a succeeding Age.
When children are taught to read the sacred writings from a young age and are shown examples of gentleness and humility, it often helps them. Providing this is no more than our duty to the next generation.
But where Youth are pinched for want of the Necessaries of Life, forced to labour hard under the harsh Rebukes of rigorous Overseers, and many Times endure unmerciful Whippings: In such an Education, how great are the Disadvantages they lie under! And how forcibly do these Things work against the Increase of the Government of the Prince of Peace!
But some young people lack the necessities of life and suffer hardship. They are forced to work hard under harsh overseers who scold them and often whip them without mercy. What great disadvantages they face when they are raised this way! And how strongly these conditions work against the growth of the rule of the Prince of Peace!
Humphrey Smith, in his Works, p. 125, speaking of the tender Feelings of the Love of God in his Heart when he was a Child, said, "By the violent wrathful Nature that ruled in others, was my Quietness disturbed, and Anger begotten in me toward them, yet that of God in me was not wholly overcome, but his Love was felt in my Heart, and great was my Grief when the Earthly-mindedness and wrathful Nature so provoked me, that I was estranged from it.
Humphrey Smith, in his Works, p. 125, spoke of the tender feelings of God’s love in his heart as a child. He said, "The violent, angry nature that ruled others disturbed my peace and made me angry with them. Yet what was of God in me was not entirely overcome, and I felt his love in my heart. I felt great grief when their worldly concerns and angry nature provoked me so much that I became separated from his love.
"And this I write as a Warning to Parents and others, that in the Fear of the living God, you may train up the Youth, and may not be a Means of bringing them into such Alienation."
"I write this as a warning to parents and others. In fear of the living God, raise the young so that you do not help bring them into such alienation."
Many are the Vanities and Luxuries of the present Age, and in labouring to support a Way of living conformable to the present World, the Departure from that Wisdom that is pure and peaceable hath been great.
There are many vanities and luxuries in the present age. In working to maintain a lifestyle that conforms to the world today, people have strayed far from pure and peaceful wisdom.
Under the Sense of a deep Revolt, and an overflowing Stream of Unrighteousness, my Life has been often a Life of Mourning, and tender Desires are raised in me, that the Nature of this Practice may be laid to Heart.
Feeling the depth of this rebellion and the flood of wrongdoing, I have often lived in mourning. I feel a tender desire for people to take the nature of this practice to heart.
I have read some Books wrote by People who were acquainted with the Manner of getting Slaves in Africa.
I have read some books written by people who knew how slaves were acquired in Africa.
I have had verbal Relations of this Nature from several Negroes brought from Africa, who have learn'd to talk English.
I have heard accounts of this kind from several Negroes brought from Africa who have learned to speak English.
I have sundry Times heard Englishmen speak on this Subject, who have been at Africa on this Business; and from all these Accounts it appears evident that great Violence is committed, and much Blood shed in Africa in getting Slaves.
I have often heard Englishmen speak about this subject who had been to Africa on this business. All their accounts make it clear that great violence is committed and much blood is shed in Africa to obtain slaves.
When three or four Hundred Slaves are put in the Hold of a Vessel in a hot Climate, their Breathing soon affects the Air. Were that Number of free People to go Passengers with all Things proper for their Voyage, there would Inconvenience arise from their Number; but Slaves are taken by Violence, and frequently endeavour to kill the white People, that they may return to their Native Land. Hence they are frequently kept under some Sort of Confinement, by Means of which a Scent ariseth in the Hold of a Ship, and Distempers often break out amongst them, of which many die. Of this tainted Air in the Hold of Ships freighted with Slaves, I have had several Accounts, some in Print, and some verbal, and all agree that the Scent is grievous. When these People are sold in America, and in the Islands, they are made to labour in a Manner more servile and constant, than that which they were used to at Home, that with Grief, with different Diet from what has been common with them, and with hard Labour, some Thousands are computed to die every Year, in what is called the Seasoning.
When three or four hundred slaves are put in the hold of a ship in a hot climate, their breathing soon affects the air. Even if that many free people traveled as passengers with everything they needed for the voyage, their number would cause inconvenience. But slaves are taken by violence and often try to kill the white people so they can return to their native land. For this reason, they are often kept under some kind of confinement. As a result, a smell arises in the ship’s hold, and diseases often break out among them. Many die from these diseases. I have heard several accounts of the tainted air in the holds of ships carrying slaves, some in print and some by word of mouth. All agree that the smell is dreadful. When these people are sold in America and in the islands, they are made to labor more constantly and under harsher servitude than they were used to at home. Because of grief, a diet different from what they were used to, and hard labor, some thousands are estimated to die every year during what is called the Seasoning.
Thus it appears evident, that great Numbers of these People are brought every Year to an untimely End; many of them being such who never injured us.
It is clear, then, that large numbers of these people die prematurely every year. Many of them have never harmed us.
When the Innocent suffer under hard-hearted Men, even unto Death, and the Channels of Equity are so obstructed, that the Cause of the Sufferers is not judged in Righteousness, the Land is polluted with Blood, Numb. xxxv. 33.
When innocent people suffer under hard-hearted men, even to the point of death, and the paths to justice are blocked so that their case is not judged fairly, the land is polluted with blood, Numb. xxxv. 33.
When Blood hath been shed unrighteously, and remains unatoned for, the Cry thereof is very piercing.
When blood has been unjustly shed and remains unatoned for, its cry is very piercing.
Under the humbling Dispensations of Divine Providence, this Cry hath deeply affected my Heart, and I feel a Concern to open, as I may be enabled, that which lieth heavy on my Mind.
Under the humbling guidance of Divine Providence, this cry has deeply affected my heart. I feel called to share, as I am able, what weighs heavily on my mind.
When the Iniquity of the House of Israel and of Judah was exceeding great, when the Land was defiled with Blood, and the City full of Perverseness, Ezek. ix. 9. some were found sighing and crying for the Abominations of the Times, Ezek. ix. 4. and such who live under a right Feeling of our Condition as a Nation, these I trust will be sensible that the Lord at this Day doth call to Mourning, though many are ignorant of it. So powerful are bad Customs when they become general, that People growing bold thro' the Examples one of another, have often been unmoved at the most serious Warnings.
When the wickedness of the house of Israel and of Judah was very great, when the land was defiled with blood, and the city was full of corruption, Ezek. ix. 9, some were found sighing and crying over the terrible sins of the times, Ezek. ix. 4. I trust that those who truly feel our condition as a nation will recognize that the Lord now calls us to mourn, though many are unaware of it. Bad customs become very powerful when they are widespread. People grow bold by following one another’s example, and they have often been unmoved by the most serious warnings.
Our blessed Saviour speaking of the People of the old World, said, They eat, they drank, they married, and were given in Marriage, until the Day that Noah went into the Ark, and the Flood came and destroy'd them all, Luke xvii. 27.
Our blessed Savior spoke of the people of the old world. He said, They ate, they drank, they married, and were given in marriage until the day Noah went into the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all, Luke 17:27.
The like he spake concerning the People of Sodom, who are also represented by the Prophet as haughty, luxurious, and oppressive; This was the Sin of Sodom, Pride, Fulness of Bread, and Abundance of Idleness was found in her, and in her Daughters; neither did she strengthen the Hands of the Poor and Needy, Ezek. xvi. 49.
He said the same about the People of Sodom. The prophet also described them as proud, luxurious, and oppressive: This was the sin of Sodom. She and her daughters were proud, had plenty of food, and lived in idleness. They did not help the poor and needy, Ezek. xvi. 49.
Now in a Revolt so deep as this, when much Blood has been shed unrighteously, in carrying on the Slave Trade, and in supporting the Practice of keeping Slaves, which at this Day is unatoned for, and crieth from the Earth, and from the Seas against the Oppressor!
Now, in a rebellion this deep, much blood has been unjustly shed in carrying on the slave trade and supporting the practice of keeping slaves. That blood remains unatoned for today and cries out from the earth and the seas against the oppressor!
While this Practice is continued, and under a great Load of Guilt there is more Unrighteousness committed, the State of Things is very moving!
As long as this practice continues and more wrongdoing is committed under a great burden of guilt, the situation is deeply troubling!
There is a Love which stands in Nature, and a Parent beholding his Child in Misery, hath a Feeling of the Affliction; but in Divine Love the Heart is enlarged towards Mankind universally, and prepar'd to sympathize with Strangers, though in the lowest Station in Life.
There is a natural love that makes a parent feel their child’s suffering. But divine love opens the heart to all humanity. It prepares us to sympathize with strangers, even those in the lowest positions in life.
Of this the Prophet appears to have had a Feeling, when he said, Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us? Why then do we deal treacherously every Man with his Brother, in prophaning the Covenant of our Fathers? Mal. ii. 10.
The Prophet seems to have felt this when he said, Do we not all have one Father? Did not one God create us? Why, then, do we each deal treacherously with our brother, profaning the covenant of our fathers? Mal. ii. 10.
He who of old heard the Groans of the Children of Israel under the hard Task-masters in Egypt, I trust hath looked down from his Holy Habitation on the Miseries of these deeply oppress'd People. Many Lives have been shorten'd through extreme Oppression while they labour'd to support Luxury and Worldly Greatness; and tho' many People in outward Prosperity may think little of those Things, yet the gracious Creator hath Regard to the Cries of the Innocent, however unnoticed by Men.
Long ago, God heard the groans of the children of Israel under their harsh taskmasters in Egypt. I trust that he has looked down from his holy dwelling on the suffering of these deeply oppressed people. Many lives have been shortened by extreme oppression, as people labored to support luxury and worldly greatness. Though many prosperous people may think little of these things, the gracious Creator hears the cries of the innocent, even when people take no notice.
The Lord in the Riches of his Goodness is leading some into the Feeling of the Condition of this People, who cannot rest without labouring as their Advocate; of which in some Measure I have had Experience, for, in the Movings of his Love in my Heart, these poor Sufferers have been brought near to me.
In his abundant goodness, the Lord is leading some people to feel the suffering of this people. They cannot rest without working to speak on their behalf. I have experienced this to some degree. For as his love moved in my heart, I felt close to these poor sufferers.
The unoffending Aged and Infirm made to labour too hard, kept on a Diet less comfortable than their weak State required, and exposed to great Difficulties under hard-hearted Men, to whose Sufferings I have often been a Witness, and under the Heart-melting Power of Divine Love, their Misery hath felt to me like the Misery of my Parents.
Innocent old and infirm people were made to work too hard and given less nourishing food than their weak condition required. Under hard-hearted men, they faced great hardships. I have often witnessed their suffering. Under the heart-melting power of Divine Love, I have felt their misery as if it were my parents’ misery.
Innocent Youth taken by Violence from their Native Land, from their Friends and Acquaintance; put on board Ships with Hearts laden with Sorrow; exposed to great Hardships at Sea; placed under People, where their Lives have been attended with great Provocation to Anger and Revenge.
Innocent young people were taken by force from their homeland, their friends, and their acquaintances. They were put aboard ships with hearts full of sorrow and endured great hardships at sea. They were placed under the control of people who gave them great cause for anger and revenge.
With the Condition of these Youth, my Mind hath often been affected, as with the Afflictions of my Children, and in a Feeling of the Misery of these People, and of that great Offence which is minister'd to them, my Tears have been often poured out before the Lord.
The condition of these young people has often affected me as deeply as the suffering of my own children. Feeling their misery and the great wrong done to them, I have often wept before the Lord.
That Holy Spirit which affected my Heart when I was a Youth, I trust is often felt by the Negroes in their Native Land, inclining their Minds to that which is righteous, and had the professed Followers of Christ in all their Conduct towards them, manifested a Disposition answerable to the pure Principle in their Hearts, how might the Holy Name have been honoured amongst the Gentiles, and how might we have rejoiced in the fulfilling of that Prophecy, I the Lord love Judgment, I hate Robbery for Burnt-offerings, and I will direct their Work in Truth, and make an everlasting Covenant with them. Their Seed shall be known amongst the Gentiles, and their Offspring amongst the People: All that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the Seed which the Lord hath blessed, Isaiah lxi. 8, 9.
I trust that the Holy Spirit that touched my heart in my youth is often felt by the Negroes in their native land. I trust that it inclines their minds toward what is right. Suppose those who profess to follow Christ had always treated them in a way that reflected this pure principle in their hearts. How greatly might the holy name have been honored among the Gentiles! And how we might have rejoiced to see this prophecy fulfilled: I the Lord love justice. I hate robbery offered as a burnt offering. I will guide their work in truth and make an everlasting covenant with them. Their descendants will be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the peoples. All who see them will acknowledge that they are the descendants whom the Lord has blessed, Isaiah 61:8, 9.
But in the present State of Things, how contrary is this Practice to that meek Spirit, in which our Saviour laid down his Life for us, that all the Ends of the Earth might know Salvation in his Name!
But in the present state of things, how contrary this practice is to the gentle spirit in which our Savior gave his life for us! He did so that all the ends of the earth might know salvation in his name.
How are the Sufferings of our blessed Redeemer set at nought, and his Name blasphemed amongst the Gentiles, through the unrighteous Proceedings of his profess'd Followers!
How the wrongdoing of his professed followers dishonors the suffering of our blessed Redeemer! Because of them, his name is blasphemed among the Gentiles!
My Mind hath often been affected, even from the Days of my Youth, under a Sense of that marvellous Work, for which God, in infinite Goodness, sent his Son into the World.
Since my youth, I have often been moved by the marvelous work for which God, in his infinite goodness, sent his Son into the world.
The opening of that Spring of living Waters, which the true Believers in Christ experience, by which they are redeemed from Pride and Covetousness, and brought into a State of Meekness, where their Hearts are enlarged in true Love toward their Fellow Creatures universally; this Work to me has been precious, and the Spreading the Knowledge of the Truth amongst the Gentiles been very desirable. And the professed Followers of Christ joining in Customs evidently unrighteous, which manifestly tend to stir up Wrath, and increase Wars and Desolations, hath often covered my Mind with Sorrow.
True believers in Christ experience the opening of a spring of living waters. Through it, they are freed from pride and greed and brought into a state of meekness. Their hearts grow to hold true love for all their fellow creatures. This work has been precious to me, and I have deeply desired to see knowledge of the truth spread among the Gentiles. Yet professed followers of Christ join in customs that are clearly unjust and plainly tend to stir up anger and increase wars and devastation. This has often filled my mind with sorrow.
If we bring this Matter home, and as Job proposed to his Friends, Put our Soul in their Soul's stead, Job xvi. 4.
If we consider this matter personally and, as Job suggested to his friends, put ourselves in their place, Job 16:4.
If we consider ourselves and our Children as exposed to the Hardships which these People lie under in supporting an imaginary Greatness.
If we imagine ourselves and our children facing the hardships these people endure to support an imagined greatness.
Did we in such Case behold an Increase of Luxury and Superfluity amongst our Oppressors, and therewith felt an Increase of the Weight of our Burdens, and expected our Posterity to groan under Oppression after us.
Suppose that, in such a case, we saw our oppressors living in greater luxury and excess. At the same time, we felt our burdens grow heavier and expected our descendants to suffer under oppression after us.
Under all this Misery, had we none to plead our Cause, nor any Hope of Relief from Man, how would our Cries ascend to the God of the Spirits of all Flesh, who judgeth the World in Righteousness, and in his own Time is a Refuge for the Oppressed!
If we suffered all this misery with no one to plead our cause and no hope of relief from anyone, how our cries would rise to God! He is the God of the spirits of all people. He judges the world with justice and, in his own time, is a refuge for the oppressed.
If they who thus afflicted us, continued to lay Claim to Religion, and were assisted in their Business by others, esteemed pious People, who through a Friendship with them strengthened their Hands in Tyranny.
If those who treated us so harshly continued to claim to be religious, and others regarded as pious helped them in their business, strengthening their tyranny through friendship with them.
In such a State, when we were Hunger-bitten, and could not have sufficient Nourishment but saw them in fulness pleasing their Taste with Things fetched from far:
In such a situation, when we were hungry and could not get enough food, we saw them eating their fill and enjoying foods brought from far away:
When we were wearied with Labour, denied the Liberty to rest, and saw them spending their Time at Ease: When Garments answerable to our Necessities were denied us, while we saw them cloathed in that which was costly and delicate:
When we were tired from work, we were denied the freedom to rest, while we saw them spending their time at ease. When we were denied the clothes we needed, we saw them dressed in expensive, delicate clothing:
Under such Affliction, how would these painful Feelings rise up as Witnesses against their pretended Devotion! And if the Name of their Religion was mention'd in our Hearing, how would it sound in our Ears like a Word which signified Self-exaltation, and Hardness of Heart!
Under such suffering, how these painful feelings would testify against their false devotion! And if we heard the name of their religion, how it would sound like a word for self-exaltation and hardness of heart!
When a Trade is carried on, productive of much Misery, and they who suffer by it are some Thousands Miles off, the Danger is the greater, of not laying their Sufferings to Heart.
When a trade causes much misery and those who suffer are thousands of miles away, there is a greater danger that we will not take their suffering to heart.
In procuring Slaves on the Coast of Africa, many Children are stolen privately; Wars also are encouraged amongst the Negroes, but all is at a great Distance.
To obtain Slaves on the coast of Africa, many children are stolen in secret. Wars are also encouraged among the Negroes, but all this happens far away.
Many Groans arise from dying Men, which we hear not.
Many dying men groan, but we do not hear them.
Many Cries are uttered by Widows and Fatherless Children, which reach not our Ears.
Many cries from widows and fatherless children never reach our ears.
Many Cheeks are wet with Tears, and Faces sad with unutterable Grief, which we see not.
Many cheeks are wet with tears, and faces are sad with unspeakable grief, though we do not see them.
Cruel Tyranny is encouraged. The Hands of Robbers are strengthened, and Thousands reduced to the most abject Slavery, who never injured us.
Cruel tyranny is encouraged. Robbers are given more power, and thousands who have never harmed us are reduced to the most miserable slavery.
Were we for the Term of one Year only to be an Eye-witness to what passeth in getting these Slaves:
If we witnessed what happens in obtaining these slaves for just one year:
Was the Blood which is there shed to be sprinkled on our Garments:
Was the blood shed there to be sprinkled on our clothes:
Were the poor Captives bound with Thongs, heavy laden with Elephants Teeth, to pass before our Eyes on their Way to the Sea:
If the poor captives, bound with leather straps and heavily laden with elephant tusks, passed before our eyes on their way to the sea:
Were their bitter Lamentations Day after Day to ring in our Ears, and their mournful Cries in the Night to hinder us from Sleeping:
If their bitter cries rang in our ears day after day, and their mournful cries kept us awake at night:
Were we to hear the Sound of the Tumult when the Slaves on board the Ships attempt to kill the English, and behold the Issue of those bloody Conflicts:
If we were to hear the uproar when slaves aboard ships attempt to kill the English, and see the outcome of those bloody conflicts:
What pious Man could be a Witness to these Things, and see a Trade carried on in this Manner, without being deeply affected with Sorrow?
What devout person could witness these things and see this trade carried on without feeling deep sorrow?
Through abiding in the Love of Christ we feel a Tenderness in our Hearts toward our Fellow Creatures, entangled in oppressive Customs; and a Concern so to walk, that our Conduct may not be a Means of strength'ning them in Error.
As we remain in the love of Christ, we feel tenderness toward our fellow creatures caught up in oppressive customs. We also want to live in a way that does not encourage them to continue in error.
It was the Command of the Lord through Moses, Thou shalt not suffer Sin upon thy Brother: Thou shalt in anywise rebuke thy Brother, and shalt not suffer Sin upon him, Lev. xix. 17.
The Lord gave this command through Moses: Do not allow your brother to remain in sin. You must rebuke your brother and not allow him to remain in sin, Lev. 19:17.
Again; Keep far from a false Matter; and the Innocent and Righteous slay thou not, Exod. xxiii. 7.
Again: Stay far from false accusations, and do not kill the innocent or the righteous, Exodus 23:7.
The Prophet Isaiah mentions Oppression as that which the true Church in Time of outward Quiet should not only be clear of, but should be far from it; Thou shalt be far from Oppression, Isaiah liv. 14. Now these Words, far from, appear to have an extensive Meaning, and to convey Instruction in regard to that of which Solomon speaks, Though Hand join in Hand, the Wicked shall not go unpunished, Prov. xvi. 5.
The Prophet Isaiah says that the true Church, in a time of outward peace, should not merely avoid oppression. It should be far from it: You shall be far from oppression, Isaiah 54:14. Now the words far from seem to have a broad meaning. They offer instruction about what Solomon speaks of: Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished, Proverbs 16:5.
It was a Complaint against one of old, When thou sawest a Thief, thou consentedst with him, Psal. l. 18.
Long ago, someone was accused: When you saw a thief, you joined in with him, Psalm 50:18.
The Prophet Jeremiah represents the Degrees of Preparation toward Idolatrous Sacrifice, in the Similitude of a Work carried on by Children, Men, and Women: The Children gather Wood, the Fathers kindle the Fire, and the Women knead the Dough to bake Cakes for the Queen of Heaven, Jer. vii. 18.
The prophet Jeremiah describes the stages of preparation for an idolatrous sacrifice as work done by children, men, and women: The children gather wood, the fathers light the fire, and the women knead the dough to bake cakes for the Queen of Heaven, Jer. vii. 18.
It was a complaint of the Lord against Israel, through his Prophet Ezekiel, that they strengthen'd the Hands of the Wicked, and made the Hearts of the Righteous sad, Ezek. xiii. 12.
The Lord complained about Israel through his prophet Ezekiel. He said they strengthened the hands of the wicked and made the hearts of the righteous sad, Ezek. xiii. 12.
Some Works of Iniquity carried on by the People were represented by the Prophet Hosea, in the Similitude of Ploughing, Reaping, and eating the Fruit; You have ploughed Wickedness, reaped Iniquity, eaten the Fruit of Lying, because thou didst trust in thy own Way, to the Multitude of thy mighty Men, Hosea x. 13.
The prophet Hosea compared some of the people's wicked deeds to plowing, harvesting, and eating the fruit: You have plowed wickedness, harvested injustice, and eaten the fruit of lies, because you trusted in your own way and in your many mighty men, Hosea 10:13.
I have felt great Distress of Mind since I came on this Island, on Account of the Members of our Society being mixed with the World in various Sorts of Business and Traffick, carried on in impure Channels. Great is the Trade to Africa for Slaves; and in loading these Ships abundance of People are employ'd in the Manufactories.
Since I came to this island, I have felt deeply distressed. Members of our Society are involved with the world in various kinds of business and trade carried on through impure channels. The trade to Africa for slaves is extensive. Many people are employed in manufacturing goods to load onto these ships.
Friends in early Time refused, on a religious Principle, to make or trade in Superfluities, of which we have many large Testimonies on Record, but for want of Faithfulness some gave way, even some whose Examples were of Note in Society, and from thence others took more Liberty: Members of our Society worked in Superfluities, and bought and sold them, and thus Dimness of Sight came over many. At length, Friends got into the Use of some Superfluities in Dress, and in the Furniture of their Houses, and this hath spread from less to more, till Superfluity of some Kind is common amongst us.
In earlier times, Friends refused on religious principle to make or trade in luxuries. Many extensive testimonies to this are on record. But some gave way for lack of faithfulness, including some whose example carried weight in the Society. Others then took greater liberties. Members of our Society made, bought, and sold luxuries. As a result, many lost their clarity of sight. Eventually, Friends began to use some luxuries in their clothing and household furnishings. This practice grew, until some kind of luxury became common among us.
In this declining State many look at the Example one of another, and too much neglect the pure Feeling of Truth. Of late Years a deep Exercise hath attended my Mind, that Friends may dig deep, may carefully cast forth the loose Matter, and get down to the Rock, the sure Foundation, and there hearken to that Divine Voice which gives a clear and certain Sound.
In this state of decline, many look to one another’s example and neglect the pure feeling of truth too much. In recent years, I have felt a deep concern that Friends dig deep and carefully clear away the loose matter. I hope they reach the rock, the sure foundation, and listen there to the divine voice that sounds clearly and certainly.
And I have felt in that which doth not deceive, that if Friends who have known the Truth, keep in that Tenderness of Heart, where all Views of outward Gain are given up, and their Trust is only on the Lord, he will graciously lead some to be Patterns of deep Self-denial, in Things relating to Trade, and handicraft Labour; and that some who have Plenty of the Treasures of this World, will example in a plain frugal Life, and pay Wages to such whom they may hire, more liberally than is now customary in some Places.
I have felt, in what does not deceive, that Friends who have known the Truth must keep their hearts tender. In that tenderness, they give up all thoughts of outward gain and trust only in the Lord. If they do this, he will graciously lead some to be examples of deep self-denial in trade and skilled work. And some who have plenty of worldly treasure will set an example by living plainly and frugally. They will also pay their hired workers more generously than is now customary in some places.
The Prophet, speaking of the true Church, said, Thy People also shall be all righteous.
Speaking of the true Church, the prophet said, Your people will all be righteous.
Of the Depth of this Divine Work several have spoken.
Several people have spoken about the depth of this divine work.
John Gratton, in his Journal, p. 45, said, "The Lord is my Portion, I shall not want. He hath wrought all my Works in me. I am nothing but what I am in him."
John Gratton wrote in his Journal, page 45, "The Lord is my portion. I will lack nothing. He has done all my works in me. I am nothing except what I am in him."
Gilbert Latey, through the powerful Operations of the Spirit of Christ in his Soul, was brought to that Depth of Self-denial, that he could not join with that proud Spirit in other People, which inclined them to want Vanities and Superfluities. This Friend was often amongst the chief Rulers of the Nation in Times of Persecution, and it appears by the Testimony of Friends, that his Dwelling was so evidently in the pure Life of Truth, that in his Visits to those great Men, he found a Place in their Minds; and that King James the Second, in the Times of his Troubles, made particular Mention in a very respectful Manner of what Gilbert once said to him.
Through the powerful work of the Spirit of Christ in his soul, Gilbert Latey came to practice deep self-denial. He could not join in the pride that led other people to desire vanity and excess. This Friend often met with the nation’s chief rulers during times of persecution. According to the testimony of Friends, he lived so clearly in the pure life of Truth that he found a place in these great men’s minds when he visited them. During his troubles, King James the Second spoke very respectfully of something Gilbert had once said to him.
The said Gilbert found a Concern to write an Epistle, in which are these Expressions; "Fear the Lord, ye Men of all Sorts, Trades, and Callings, and leave off all the Evil that is in them, for the Lord is grieved with all the Evils used in your Employments which you are exercised in.
Gilbert felt called to write a letter, which included these words: "Fear the Lord, men of all kinds, trades, and occupations. Stop all the evil in your work, for the Lord is grieved by all the evils you commit in your occupations.
"It is even a Grief to see how you are Servants to Sin, and Instruments of Satan." See his Works, Page 42, etc. George Fox, in an Epistle, writes thus: "Friends, stand in the Eternal Power of God, Witness against the Pomps and Vanities of this World.
"It is a grief to see how you serve sin and are instruments of Satan." See his works, page 42, etc. George Fox writes in an epistle: "Friends, stand in the eternal power of God. Bear witness against the pomp and vanities of this world.
"Such Tradesmen who stand as Witnesses in the Power of God, cannot fulfil the People's Minds in these Vanities, and therefore they are offended at them.
"Tradespeople who stand as witnesses in the power of God cannot satisfy people's desire for these vanities. So people are offended by them.
"Let all trust in the Lord, and wait patiently on him; for when Trust first broke forth in London, many Tradesmen could not take so much Money in their Shops for some Time, as would buy them Bread and Water, because they withstood the World's Ways, Fashions, and Customs; yet by their patient waiting on the Lord in their good Life and Conversation, they answer'd the Truth in People's Hearts, and thus their Business increased." Book of Doctrinals, Page 824.
"Let everyone trust in the Lord and wait patiently on him. When Trust first arose in London, many tradesmen refused to follow the world's ways, fashions, and customs. For a time, they could not take in enough money at their shops to buy bread and water. Yet they waited patiently on the Lord, living good lives and behaving well. In this way, they spoke to the truth in people's hearts, and their businesses grew." Book of Doctrinals, Page 824.
Now Christ our Holy Leader graciously continueth to open the Understandings of his People, and as Circumstances alter from Age to Age, some who are deeply baptized into a Feeling of the State of Things, are led by his Holy Spirit into Exercises in some respect different from those which attended the Faithful in foregoing Ages, and through the Constrainings of pure Love, are engaged to open the Feelings they have to others.
Christ, our holy leader, graciously continues to open his people's understanding. As circumstances change from age to age, some people come to feel the state of things deeply. His Holy Spirit leads them into spiritual struggles that differ in some ways from those of faithful people in earlier ages. Compelled by pure love, they share their feelings with others.
In faithfully following Christ, the Heart is weaned from the Desires of Riches, and we are led into a Life so plain and simple, that a little doth suffice, and thus the Way openeth to deny ourselves, under all the tempting Allurements of that Gain, which we know is the Gain of Unrighteousness.
When we faithfully follow Christ, our hearts grow less attached to the desire for riches. We are led to live so plainly and simply that a little is enough. This frees us to resist all the tempting appeals of gain that we know is unjust.
The Apostle speaking on this Subject, asketh this Question; What Fellowship hath Righteousness with Unrighteousness? 2 Cor. vi. 14. And again saith, Have no Fellowship with the unfruitful Works of Darkness, but rather reprove them, Ephes. v. 11. Again, Be not Partaker of other Men's Sins, keep thyself pure, 1 Tim. v. 22.
Speaking on this subject, the Apostle asks: What fellowship does righteousness have with unrighteousness? 2 Cor. 6:14. He also says, Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them, Ephes. 5:11. Again, he says, Do not share in other people's sins. Keep yourself pure, 1 Tim. 5:22.
Where People through the Power of Christ are thoroughly settled in a right Use of Things, freed from all unnecessary Care and Expence, the Mind in this true Resignation is at Liberty from the Bands of a narrow Self-Interest, to attend from Time to Time on the Movings of his Spirit upon us, though he leads into that through which our Faith is closely tried.
When people are fully settled in the right use of things through the power of Christ, they are freed from all unnecessary worry and expense. In this true surrender, their minds are free from the bonds of narrow self-interest. They can attend to the promptings of his spirit from time to time, though he leads them through experiences that severely test their faith.
The Language of Christ is pure, and to the Pure in Heart this pure Language is intelligible; but in the Love of Money, the Mind being intent on Gain, is too full of human Contrivance to attend to it.
The language of Christ is pure, and those who are pure in heart can understand it. But a mind focused on gain, out of love for money, is too full of human schemes to listen to it.
It appeareth evident, that some Channels of Trade are defiled with Unrighteousness, that the Minds of many are intent on getting Treasures to support a Life, in which there are many unnecessary Expences.
It is clear that some areas of trade are tainted by wrongdoing. Many people are intent on gaining wealth to support lives filled with unnecessary expenses.
And I feel a living Concern attend my Mind, that under these Difficulties we may humbly follow our Heavenly Shepherd, who graciously regardeth his Flock, and is willing and able to supply us both inwardly and outwardly with clean Provender, that hath been winnowed with the Shovel and the Fan, where we may sow to ourselves in Righteousness, reap in Mercy, Hosea x. 12. and not be defiled with the Works of Iniquity.
I feel a deep and continuing concern that we may humbly follow our Heavenly Shepherd through these difficulties. He graciously cares for his flock. He is willing and able to provide us, both inwardly and outwardly, with clean feed, winnowed with shovel and fan. There we may sow for ourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy, Hosea 10:12, and not be defiled by acts of wickedness.
Where Customs contrary to pure Wisdom are transmitted to Posterity, it appears to be an Injury committed against them; and I often feel tender Compassion toward a young Generation, and Desires that their Difficulties may not be increased through Unfaithfulness in us of the present Age.
When customs that go against true wisdom are passed down to future generations, it seems to harm them. I often feel tender compassion for the younger generation. I hope that our lack of faithfulness today will not make their difficulties greater.