existing. People do not like to be excelled in that line wherein they themselves affect distinction. The female that courts admiration, the tradesman that values himself upon the superiority of his goods, the scholar that is a candidate for fame, the statesman that is ambitious of honour, must con- sider how he feels, when he sees himself outstripped in his course; whether he would not be glad to hear that his suc- cessful competitor had failed in his expectations ; whether his ear is not open to any thing that may reduce his rival to a level with himself; whether, in short, the fine coat and pro- mised elevation of Joseph do not grieve him ? Let persons be attentive to the motions of their hearts on such occasions as these, and they will find that this accursed principle is exceed- ing strong within them ; and that they need to watch and pray against it continually, if they would gain the mastery over it in any measure.]
3. How it may be subdued?
[Doubtless many things might be prescribed which would conduce to this end. We content ourselves however with specifying only two. First, Let us endeavour to get a know- ledge of our own vileness. When we have thoroughly learned that we deserve God's wrath and indignation, we shall account it a mercy that we are out of hell. We shall not then be grieved at any preference shewn to others. We shall see that we have already far more than we deserve ; and we shall be willing that others should enjoy what God has given them, when we see how mercifully he has dealt with us.
Next, Let us get our hearts filled with love to our fellow- creatures. We do not envy those whom we love : the more we love any person, the more we rejoice in his advancement. The Apostle justly says, " Charity envieth not." Let us beg of God then to implant this better principle in our hearts. Then shall our selfish passions be mortified and subdued ; and we shall be made like unto him, whose name is Loveg.]
e 1 John iv. 8.