THERE is a great God, the Creator of all things, who gave man a being here in this world; to whom every man must give an account, when he goes out of this world.
This great God, who loves mankind, and would not have them perish, is nigh unto man, to teach him the fear, which is due from him to God. The man that learns this pure fear of God is daily exercised by it in departing from evil, both in thought, word, and deed, and in doing that which is good in his sight.
There is likewise another teacher near man, who is also ready to teach such as do not know God, or fear God, that which is dishonorable to the great God, who made man a vessel of honor, and to be to his glory. They that learn of this teacher learn not to fear God, or to do good, but to please themselves in doing evil, both in thought, word, and deed. Oh! what account will all such give, when they go out of this world, and come to be judged by the great God (who is of pure eyes, and cannot behold iniquity), when all their sins are set in order by him before them, and just judgment proportioned by him thereunto? Oh! why do men forget God their Creator, days without number, hearkening to him who first deceived them, doing the will of the deceiver and destroyer of souls, and not the will of the blessed Creator and Saviour?
Oh, hearken to wisdom's counsel, when she cries in the streets of your hearts against that which is evil, and contrary to the nature, life, and will of God; lest a day of calamity from God come upon you, and then ye cry unto the pitiful and tender God, and his bowels be turned against you, and he refuse to show mercy to you! Read Prov. 1:20 to the end of the chapter; and the Lord give you the weighty consideration and true understanding of it for your soul's good, and for the reclaiming of you from any thing that is evil, and destructive to your souls.
This is written in tender love unto you, from one who pities and loves you, and desires your prosperity in this world, and your everlasting happiness with God for ever.
I. P.
Astrop, 15th of Sixth Month, 1678