Ridding the Conscience of Pain – A Conscience Void of Offence: Journal Entry Dec. 3^rd, 1739

“Monday, Dec. 3. Came to North East in Maryland, where I had appointed to preach to-day. Little notice having been given, there were not above fifteen hundred people; but God was with us, and many were deeply affected. Several repeated invitations were sent me to preach at other places. Immediately after sermon, we passed over Susquehannah Ferry, about a mile broad, and were received at a gentleman’s house that lay on our way. Though we were eight in company, all things were carried on with great freedom and generosity; and I hope God sent us providentially thither, for the gentleman told us he had been a little melancholy, and had therefore sent for some friends to help him to drive it away. The bottle and the bowl, I found, were the means to be employed; but,  blessed be God, the design was, in a good measure, prevented by our coming; another turn was soon given to the conversation, whilst I endeavoured to talk of God as much as I could. All joined in family prayer; and I went to bed pitying the miserable condition of those who live a life of luxury and self-indulgence. They are afraid to look into themselves; and, if their consciences are at any time awakened, they must be lulled to sleep again by drinking and evil company. None but a sincere Christian can with pleasure practice the duty of self-examination. Lord, grant I may always so live that I may keep a conscience void of offence, both towards Thee and towards man. Then I shall never be less alone than when alone; for Thou, Father of mercies, and God of all consolations, wilt everywhere be with me.” – George Whitefield, 1739

“So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man.”

Acts 24:16