is no calumny to affirm this : " Go therefore now, and work." Go ; and instead of obstructing the sacrifices of others, present to God the sacrifice that he demands of you.']
2. Those who meet with persecution for righteous- ness' sake —
[" All who will live godly in Christ Jesus are taught to expect persecution : " therefore think it not strange that you are called to suffer ; but rather " rejoice that you are counted worthy to suffer for Christ's sake." Are you discouraged, because the relief you have sought for is withheld, and your troubles seem to increase ? It was thus that God dealt with the Hebrews in the instance before us ; and he not unfrequently deals thus with his people, in order that he may be the more glorified in their ultimate deliverance. If therefore the shadows of the night be still lengthened, you need not despair ; for " at evening-time it shall be light ;" and in the hour of your deepest distress God will surely interpose for your succour and relief p. Take care however that the enemies of religion have no cause to find fault with you for neglecting the duties of your station. It is no little stumbling-block in their way, when you give them occasion to adopt the language of the text. See to it then, that you be active and diligent in every work to which God, in his providence, has called you. The direction given you by God himself combines worldly activity with spiritual fervour, and represents each of them, in its place, as truly acceptable to him ; " Be not slothful in business, but fervent in spirit, serving the Lord*1."]
p Deut. xxxii. 36. i Rom. xii. 11.