Watson, Ralph (1812-1837)

Ralph, son of John and Jane Watson, of Garrigill Gate, Alston circuit, was born June 7, 1812.  His father, being a P. Methodist, set his family a good example, and trained up his children in the fear of the Lord.  This was made a blessing to Ralph, and ultimately issued in a life of eminent piety.

Christian parents should all labour to do likewise, as the salvation of their children will very much depend on their example and instruction.

In the year 1827, being incapacitated for manual labour by incurable lameness, he had to improve his mind by education; and being trained up to serve the Lord, he became serious, and attended the means of grace.

In January, 1835, the glorious revival being going on in Garrigill, he was fully blest with Christian liberty, through faith in Christ; the love of God was shed abroad in his heart, by the Holy Ghost given unto him, and he never lost it; also Jan. 13, he joined the P. M. society.

He was eminently zealous, faithful, and watchful: a burning and shining light.  He often sung this verse,

“There is my house and portion fair,” &c.

Towards the close of life his sufferings were severe; but he maintained his integrity, looking to Jesus.  He has been known to spend whole nights in prayer.  His deportment was serious, his conversation spiritual, his life holy and his end glorious.

Bro. William Thomason says, about eight o’clock one evening, I entered his house, and found him struggling with the pains of death.  Our brother notices what appeared a fit of delirium.  His mother said, “Thou art going to glory.”  After a few minutes silence, he said, “I believe! I believe!”  His father said, “Ralph, yonder’s the house.”  Ralph added, “and portion fair.”  His father said, “Halleluia.”  Ralph cried, “Halleluia is begun.  Halleluia will end in glory.”  He five times repeated, “Eternity’s too short to utter all thy praise.”  These were his last words.  He died in January, 1837.

J. Lightfoot

 

Primitive Methodist Magazine, 1838.  Pages 236-237.

 

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