George Whitefield’s Letter of December 15, 1739

On December 15, 1739, George Whitefield (1714–1770) wrote to a fellow servant during the early Evangelical Revival: “My brother, entreat the Lord that I may grow in grace, and pick up the fragments of my time, that not a moment of it may be lost.” The line captures the inward posture behind his public ministry. Though crowds pressed in to hear him, he viewed spiritual progress as God’s gift, sought through prayer, not personal strength. His request reflects a disciple’s fear of wasted hours and a longing that every duty, journey, sermon, and conversation be gathered up for holy use.

Open-Air Preaching and the Evangelical Revival

The year 1739 marked a decisive season in Whitefield’s itinerant labors across England and Wales, often preaching outdoors when churches were closed to him or when multitudes outgrew buildings. Bristol and nearby Kingswood became emblematic settings: coal miners and laborers stood in the fields, some weeping openly under the Word. Whitefield’s willingness to endure weather, travel, and criticism showed a kind of Christian heroism—courage governed by compassion—yet his letter reveals that the greater battle was within: to remain sincere, prayerful, and clean-hearted while being celebrated and exhausted.

“Grow in Grace” and Redeeming the Time

Whitefield’s phrase “grow in grace” echoes the apostolic call: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). His desire to “pick up the fragments” of time suggests vigilance over minutes others might discard—idle talk, needless distraction, spiritual sloth—so that the whole of life becomes an offering. Scripture presses the same urgency: “Redeem the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16). Whitefield’s humility shines in asking another believer to pray for him; he treated intercession as a means God uses to preserve His servants.

Holiness over Fame

While multitudes gathered, Whitefield’s stated aim was not to cultivate a name but to cultivate holiness. His plea is a reminder that fruitful ministry and personal sanctification must walk together. The revival’s outward power depended on inward reverence: secret prayer, repentance, integrity, and love for souls. In that spirit, his letter stands as an enduring call to depend on the Lord, pursue Christlike character, and refuse to lose even a moment that can be turned toward God’s glory.