February 5. 1678. a Commemoration of My Widdowhood.
The speaker reflects on her seventh year of widowhood, expresses her concern about her spiritual life, and receives a word of encouragement from God that her widowhood will be turned into a joyful experience.
Jane Lead reflects on the seventh year of her widowhood, dedicating it to God as her everlasting Husband. She acknowledges the deep trials and vicissitudes she has faced, yet finds comfort in the never-fading love of God sustaining her through outward distress and difficulties. Her main concern is the balance between her corporeal and spiritual life, but she trusts in God's provision and guidance. Through a divine message, she is assured that her widowhood will be transformed into a state of solace and joy, as she has remained faithful to God during her probationary period.
Text
This Day being the seventh Year of my Widdowhood, since the decease of my Husband; Which day I commemorate by keeping it Holy to God, my everlasting Husband, from whom no Death can me separate.
Considering in my mind I was, that now the seventh Year was expired, wherein I had waded through many deep Tryals, and passing through many Vicissitudes in this time, wherein great proof I have still had of the never fading Love of my God, as to outward distress and difficulties: Provision still hath been made for me, As disappointments happen for my outward support; my great fear and concern being lest the necessity for my Corporeal Life, should distress and prevent the rising of my Spiritual Life, which hath been my only care to keep up.
For which my God hath now sent in a suitable shelter, that so we might proceed forward in what is yet behind, that the whole Scene relating to the utmost of a redeemed State, may be known by us, whose Spirits are in true Conjunction here for.
After this consultation the Spirit ministered this Word to me, Thou shalt no more be termed desolate or forsaken, for thy Widdowhood shall be turned into a Virgin Solacement, because the Lord thy Maker hath pleasure in thee. For as much as thou hast cleaved with all thy Heart unto him, in this seven Years Probation-Day. Oh my Lord shall I now come to inherit such Grace and mighty Love, and espousal Joy, in the Life of Spiritual Virginity. Oh Jesus so let it be.
Sermon Outline
- The speaker's reflection on her seventh year of widowhood
- The speaker's concern about her spiritual life
- A word of encouragement from God
- She is no longer desolate or forsaken
- Her widowhood will be turned into a joyful experience
- God delights in her and has a plan for her spiritual growth
Key Quotes
“Thou shalt no more be termed desolate or forsaken, for thy Widdowhood shall be turned into a Virgin Solacement, because the Lord thy Maker hath pleasure in thee.” — Jane Lead
“Oh my Lord shall I now come to inherit such Grace and mighty Love, and espousal Joy, in the Life of Spiritual Virginity.” — Jane Lead
“Oh Jesus so let it be.” — Jane Lead
Application Points
- We can trust God to provide for our physical needs and shelter our spiritual well-being.
- God delights in us and has a plan for our spiritual growth and development.
- We can experience the joy of spiritual virginity and inherit God's grace and mighty love.