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The lives that we admire tend to be those that give everything they have for the cause of their mission. Despite weariness and exhaustion they fight and persevere until the very end. Such was the life of Charles Wesley, co-founder of the Methodist movement and author of thousands of hymns in his lifetime, many of which we still sing today.

After a failed missionary trip to Georgia, Charles found himself at a low point – challenged, not knowing what to believe. He contracted Pleurisy and became very ill. He was placed in the care of friend who would read scriptures to him. In 1738 he had a “conversion experience”. Strength returned and he gained passion to share his faith. 2 days later penned his 1st hymn. “Where should my wondering soul begin“.

Charles began extensive travel with his brother John and George Whitefield – preaching in town squares. However he struggled with the rigorous schedule and his fiery temperament was prone to high highs and low lows, and he was know to descend into deep depression. On one occasion he travelled for 3 days in the rain with no sleep and collapsed on the ground on arrival in Garth (Wales). There he met Sarah Gywnn, who later became his wife. Though the exhaustion took it’s toll he continued to pen hundereds of hymns.

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