Letter to a Son

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
1 Corinthians 9:27, NKJV

Susannah Wesley’s children’s high repute in the history of English households is largely attributed to their early domestic training. Reading the lesson of this letter to a son, it is easy to see why.

I am concerned for you (who were even before your birth dedicated to the service of the sanctuary), that you may be instrumental, if God shall spare your life, in bringing many souls to heaven. Take heed, therefore, in the first place, of your own soul, lest you yourself should be a castaway. You must not think to live like the rest of the world. For my part, I cannot see with what face clergymen can reprove sinners or exhort men to lead a good life when they themselves indulge their own corrupt inclinations, and by their practice contradict their doctrine. If the Holy Jesus be indeed their Master, and they are really His ambassadors, surely it becomes them to live like His disciples; and if they do not, what a sad account they must give of their stewardship! I exhort you, as I am your faithful friend; and I command you, as I am your parent, to use your utmost diligence to make your calling and election sure; to be faithful to your God; and after I have said that, I need not tell you to be industrious in your calling.