Break through the snares of vanity!

Break through the snares of vanity!

(Letters of John Newton)

Dear fellow pastor,
I would earnestly press both of us—
to follow the Lord fully;
to aim at a life of self-denial;
to renounce self-will; and
to guard against self-wisdom.

The less we have to do with the world—the better!
Unless we watch and pray—we shall often be ensnared!

Time is precious, and opportunities once gone—are gone
forever! Even by reading, and what we call studying—we
may be comparatively losers. The best way to study—is
to be closely waiting upon God in humble, secret, fervent
prayer. The treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in
His hands—and He gives bountifully, without upbraiding!

Whatever we may undertake with a sincere desire
to promote His glory—we may comfortably pursue.
Nothing is trivial—which is done for Him.

Pray for me, that I may be enabled to break through
the snares of vanity which lie in my way; that I may
be crucified with Christ—and live a sincere life of faith
in Him who loved me, and gave Himself for me!

Adieu,
John Newton
June 29, 1757