they are in reality its votaries, as much as if they were follow- ing it in the more accustomed way. The monk in his cell lives to himself and to the flesh, as much as the voluptuary or
the man of business Now here is another visible mark
of distinction between the children of God and others : they may possess, and may enjoy, much of this world ; but " though they use this world, they do not abuse it ;" though they dis- charge their duties in it, they are in no respect in bondage to it : and this also elevates their character in the eyes of all who know them, and distinguishes them as pre-eminently favoured of their God.]
3. Their activity in doing good —
[Like their Divine Master, they " go about doing good." This is, as it were, the element in which they delight to move : and, though they themselves are a very " little flock" in com- parison of those around them, it will be found that almost every great and extensive charity has proceeded from them. Of the charities which relate to the souls of men and their edification in the faith of Christ, they, under God, are the sole authors : others may contribute to the spread of the Bible, the establishment of missions, and the promotion of religion in various ways ; but the proposals that first set on foot those charities will be found, perhaps universally, to have originated with men of real piety. Here again they differ from all around them ; for though we thankfully acknowledge that there is a considerable portion of benevolence in many who are not truly devoted to God, yet there is no real zeal in them for the dif- fusion of the Gospel, and the salvation of a ruined world.]
4. The whole consistency of their conduct — [Times and circumstances make no change in them. At
all times, and under all circumstances, they are glad in non- essentials to consult the weakness of others : but in things essential they are equally unmoved by hopes or fears. They know not to please men, unless it be for their good to edifica- tion. They have but one rule, the written word of God ; and to that they are determined to adhere in life and death. But this is a character peculiar to them. All other persons, how pertinacious soever they may be in some things, will relax in others, according as inclination or interest may lead them. In regard to honour and probity indeed a worldly man may be as immovable as others ; but in things relating either to the exercise or encouragement of vital godliness, he cannot possi- bly maintain an uniform tenour of conduct : he wants the prin- ciple which alone can produce a firm, uniform, and decided character: consequently where consistency in true religion is, there it will commend itself to all who are able to appreciate its value, and will stamp its possessor as a child of God.]