3,. To those who feel an united regard for both —
[It is well indeed if you have learned to " render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's." And we would wish every religious person to attain such a measure of consistency, as to be able to say both to the godly and ungodly, What have ye, which I have not ? and, What do ye, which I do not ? " Are ye Hebrews ? so am I : are ye Israelites ? so am I." This kind of con- sistency will in due time create an influence over the minds of many ; and may recommend religion to generations yet un- born. We would not indeed wish any one to be burthening himself or others with superstitious observances : but to adopt the spirit of Jonadab's injunctions will be of incalculable advantage to us all. Self-denial and deadness to the world are amongst the most important duties of Christianity ; and to live in the habitual exercise of these will be an effectual preserva- tive from temptation. That we shall be tempted to violate our principles and our engagements, must be expected : both the world and the flesh will, as it were, " set pots of wine
before us, and say, Drink ye wine." But, if we have learned to crucify the flesh with its affections and lusts, we shall have our answer ready at hand, ' My Father, and my God, has for- bidden it : and I will do only the things that please him.' Thus bear in mind your vows and obligations to your God, and you shall " never be led away by the error of the wicked, nor fall from your own steadfastness."]