========================================================================
  LETTER 9
  by James Bourne
========================================================================

Summary: James Bourne reflects on God's lovingkindness and the comfort
found in His presence amidst life's challenges.

Topics: "Gods Love", "Faithful Guidance"
Scripture References: Psalm 23:4, Psalm 54:4, Psalm 94:19, John 14:16, 1 Corinthians 1:27

------------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------

James Bourne expresses gratitude for the lovingkindness of God, finding
comfort and assurance in God's everlasting love during tumultuous times.
He reflects on the peace and support he receives from God, even in the
midst of battles, and acknowledges the presence of Jesus as a faithful
companion. Bourne prays for continued guidance, teaching, and a grateful
heart, believing in God's mercy and the manifestation of His chosen
people. He appreciates the kindness shown to him and trusts that God
will bless those who have supported him.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTENT
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[To Mr. Burrell, afterwards Minister of the Gospel.] - 1809.

My dear Friend,

The feeblest and weakest of all creatures desires to speak a little of
the wonderful lovingkindness of God, so visibly shown in my behalf, and
so sweetly felt in my heart. I seem more and more comforted under these
tumults, and have fresh assurances of God's everlasting love to my soul.
These words carne sweetly into my mind while reading before chapel this
morning - "He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was
against me" (Psalm Iv. 181). Oh, how suitable and supporting! I can
bless my dear Redeemer for these unlooked for mercies. He knows my weak
and trembling state, and therefore encourages me by those sweet and
frequent visits. "In the multitude of my thoughts within me, thy
comforts delight my soul." I have lost a few earthly companions, and the
dear Lord Jesus is come in their stead. O that God would condescend
still to teach me, to be my guide, counsellor, and friend, and give me a
grateful heart for all his condescension and mercy to the vilest and
unworthiest of his people; and may he bless you for your kindness to me;
and though I have been brought acquainted with you under a cloud, yet I
do believe God will, in rich mercy, make it manifest that he has chosen
me; and that your labour of love towards me shall not be in vain.

Yours affectionately, J. B.

========================================================================
Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/james-bourne/letter-9/
========================================================================