one single instance wherein this promise failed. We might speak also respecting the happiness of true reli- gion; and draw a parallel between the Jews assem- bling for their solemn feasts, and Christians universally uniting in the same grateful acknowledgments and heavenly joys. But there are two observations, to which, as arising clearly out of the subject, and as being of singular importance, we would limit your attention : —
1. The service of God is of paramount obligation — [We have seen what strong objections might have been made to the ordinance before us, which yet was required punc- tually to be observed. And we know that carnal reason has much to suggest in opposition to the commands of God, much that is founded in fact and in the experience of mankind : ' If I serve my God according to the requisitions of his word, I shall be forced to deny myself many things that are pleasing to flesh and blood : I shall also be singular, and shall expose myself to the derision and contempt of those who are hostile to true religion : my very friends may turn against me ; and I may suffer materially in my temporal interests.' All this, and more than this, is very true : but it affords no reason whatever for disobeying the commands of God. The Jews would doubt- less on many occasions have preferred their domestic ease and comfort, or the occupations in which they were engaged, to the fatigue and trouble of a long expensive journey. But the com- mand was positive : and so is ours ; it admits of no excuses : we are expressly required to " deny ourselves, to take up our cross daily, and to follow Christ :" and it is on these terms only that we can be his disciples. If called to " forsake father and mother, and houses and lands, for the Gospel's sake," we must forsake, yea and " hate them all," if they stand in competition with Christ, or would draw us from our allegiance to him. We must not love even life itself in comparison of him, but cheer- fully sacrifice it at any time, and in any way that our fidelity to him may require. " It is not necessary that I should live," said a great general, "but it is necessary that I should proceed." Thus must the Christian say, ' Tell me not of difficulties, or dangers : it is not necessary that I should be rich, or honoured, or even that I should live ; but it is necessary that I should obey my God : a heated furnace, or a den of lions, is nothing to me : duty is all. If I die for conscience sake, I rejoice that I am counted worthy to suffer in so good a cause.' This was the mind of Paul : " None of these things move me," says he, " neither count I my life dear unto me:" " I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the Lord's