Effort is much easier than self-denial. I can more easily and cheerfully make many wearisome efforts, than practice one act of abstinence. Therefore the latter is the better test of character.

In the summer of 1820, William Nevins left Richmond for Baltimore to become pastor of the First Presbyterian Church.

Once the reality of marriage loomed on the horizon, Nevins joked to a friend that he was so busy with his pastoral work that he wasn’t sure he had time to be married. Somehow he found the time.

It has been said of the cholera that it begins where other diseases end—with death. (William Nevins, 1834).

I had always expected that the prospect of death would almost frighten me out of existence; but now it has no terrors. I rely on Jesus, and feel I shall be happy when I die.

Oh, if I were but assured that Jesus was with you then, and that you are now with him, I should still weep, but they would be tears of gratitude! Oh, if you are with him, stay where you are! I would not call you back—you would not come! No, if you sleep in Jesus, sleep on.

There is walking in love, and following peace, which, as well as contending for the faith, are unrepealed laws of Christ's house. I believe they can all be done, and that each is best done when the others are not neglected. I am sure truth never lost any thing by being spoken in love.

September 14, 8 AM. He asked for another hymn of John Newton’s to be read to him. His friend began to read each verse of “Come, My Soul, Thy Suit Prepare, Jesus Loves to Answer Prayer.” After each verse Nevins made a few comments. After some time, his friend read the final verse—Show me what I have to do, Every hour my strength renew, Let me live a life of faith, Let me die thy people’s death.

When William Nevins died, his congregation asked George Musgrave, another Baltimore pastor, to conduct his funeral. Some time later Musgrave composed a list of Nevins’ character qualities that were worthy of emulation.