p425 Dearest G Glenny, - You will have dear - with you before this letter reaches you, which will have relieved you for the moment, at any rate, from what presses upon you, but I fully sympathise with you. It is often my lot, and it grieves me. One can only cast oneself on the Lord, and pray to Him to develop what is wanting. It is not always a bad feeling, better than mere forwardness any way. Some people have more gift in drawing out others than others have (not of course at the meeting). But it is natural that at the first they should not feel much courage; but in looking to the Lord, He will draw this out. The work is His, and He alone can really do it. Meanwhile we have only to walk in simplicity. If opportunity is given, and we see it is only timidity in a person morally ripe, encourage them - I do not say invite, for this is another thing which does not do. It is taking the place of the leading of the Holy Ghost; and, while leaving every opportunity to others, as really desirous of their taking part, serve Christ yourself, as the Holy Ghost may lead you for the edification of all. God will develop what is right in due time. …

We have only to go on quietly with the truth, taking care through grace to have our hearts large in love, without leaving the narrow path, in lowliness and weakness doing His will, and carefully avoiding anything like "us." Let Christ be fully before us, and every right feeling will be engendered in our heart. We may be grieved for Him, but our hearts will walk as His did through the world. The brethren here are generally getting on happily, and with mutual confidence, which is a great thing. They remember you with all affection. … You have to be very thankful for the Lord encouraging you and helping you on. Remember, with all evangelical earnestness, which I greatly crave, that as a remnant we are an afflicted and poor people trusting in the name of the Lord. My kindest love to -, if with you, and to all the dear brethren, though I have never seen them; not one is deemed a stranger, though never seen before. May grace and abounding mercy and peace be with you, dear brother. May He keep us both simple, humble and devoted, Christ our all!

Dublin, December 27th.

[52290E]