To William Fullerton, Provost of Kirkcudbright — Letter 95

Worthy and much honored sir.

Grace, mercy, and peace be to you. I am glad to hear of your welfare and of your continued standing for the truth of Christ. In these times when so many are bowing the knee to Baal and making their peace with the enemies of the gospel, it is no small thing to stand fast. The Lord takes notice of every act of faithfulness done for his name, however small it may seem. You may think that a town bailiff in a small Scottish burgh counts for little in the great conflict of the times. But Christ values every soldier in his army, and no act of loyalty to him is lost. I beseech you, do not let the pressure of your office and the business of the world crowd out the care of your soul. The great business of every man's life is to get ready to die and to meet his God. All else is secondary. Make the most of your time, for the days are evil. Use every occasion to speak a word for Christ to those around you. Let your life be a testimony to the power of grace. And hold your goods, your name, and your life itself loosely, ready to lose any of them for Christ if he calls you to it. They are all his anyway — given to you in trust, not in ownership. Grace be with you.

Aberdeen, March 13, 1637. Yours in his sweet Lord Jesus, S. R.