Part 102

Neither excuse thy conforming to the world in rich cloaths, banquets, dancing, plays, and the like, by saying, “I take no delight in these trifles; but I submit to them, that I may have the more power over them that do.” This is one of the fruits of our modern religion, raised on maxims of state-policy: but if we bring it to the test, it is altogether inconsistent with _the truth, as it is in Jesus_. “But you are for taking away the abuse of these things, and letting the use remain.” The true children of God, who are crucified to the world, can’t find the least true use in them. When they would avoid or prevent any evil, or do any good, either to their own souls, or their neighbours, they have no need of the devil’s rattles, but fly to their God, and commit their whole cause to his direction. They rest themselves, while they use only such measures as he directs, in full confidence that he will do what is best; and they enjoy even the necessary refreshments of their bodies for no other end, but to spend the strength received thereby, in humble acknowledgment and child-like thankfulness, and to renew the vigour of their soul and body for the service of their neighbours.