2. Let us seek that which will render all times and seasons happy —
[Religion is a cure and antidote to every ill, whether of a public or private nature. Amongst those who were endued with piety in the Apostolic age, you find none who were " murmurers and complainers." Their habit of mind is better expressed by those words of the Apostle, " I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound : everywhere, and in all things, I am instructed, both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need*^." Having tasted of redeeming love, they are become comparatively indifferent to every thing else. Whatever they possess, they account an undeserved mercy : whatever they want, they regard as scarcely worthy of a thought. They know that " all things shall eventually work together for their good." " They are hid, in the secret of their Saviour's presence, from the strife of tongues: and whilst the minds of others are agitated with violent and malignant passions, theirs are " kept in perfect peace." This, then, I would earnestly recommend to you : Let your first concern be about your own souls. Seek for reconciliation with your offended God ; and endeavour to walk in the light of his countenance. Then, whatever others may do, you may look forward to better times, when all troubles shall have fled away, and your happiness be unalloyed in the bosom of your God.]
e Phil. iv. 11, 12.