When Robert Murray M’Cheyne went on an exploratory trip to Israel for his denomination he chose a young 24 year old named William Chalmers Burns to be the interim pastor.

PASTORAL COUNSEL FOR THE AGES

Unable to see Burns face to face one last time before his departure M’Cheyne sent a letter full of sober-minded counsel to the man God would use to bring revival among his beloved congregation. M’Cheyne’s advice is timeless and timely for every pastor, no matter his season of ministry:

Take heed to thyself. Your own soul is your first and greatest care. You know a sound body alone can work with power; much more a healthy soul. Keep a clear conscience through the blood of the Lamb. Keep up close communion with God. Study likeness to Him in all things. Read the Bible for your own growth first, then for your people. Expound much; it is through the truth that souls are to be sanctified, not through essays upon the truth. Be easy of access, apt to teach, and the Lord teach you and bless you in all you do and say. You will not find many companions. Be the more with God.

A sound target full of biblical wisdom.