2. Outward proofs of that weakness —
[" Grey hairs" are indications of declining strength. They are first thinly interspersed ; and afterwards diffused over the whole head. Thus are the symptoms of decline small at first, and scarcely visible, except upon close inspection. They will however appear, when the inward weakness has commenced. There will be a visible alteration in the temper : a proud im- perious spirit will be more ready to shew itself: fretfulness and impatience will more easily arise. A change will be found in our dealings with the world. We shall be less open, less generous, less scrupulous about adhering to truth, or prac- tising the tricks of trade. In our families also will a deterior- ation of our state be manifest. There will be less attention paid to their spiritual interests. The word of God will not be read to them with such practical and interesting remarks : nor will the devotions be conducted with life ; but will dege- nerate into a mere form. In the closet, more especially, the symptoms of our decay will be seen. Prayer will probably be a mere lip-service, and not unfrequently be entirely omitted. The sacred volume will either be glanced over in haste, or lie wholly neglected. In short, there will be no delight in God, no peaceful serenity of mind, no joyful hope of immortality. These things will be exchanged for gloom and melancholy, for sighs and sorrows, for an accusing conscience, and a dread of death.]
3. Insensibility under that weakness —
[Things have proceeded far when this mark appears. But it is the natural effect of sin to blind the eyes, and harden the heart, and sear the conscience11. Twice is it said of the Israelites in the text, " They knew it not: " they had contracted a stupid indifference, bordering on judicial blindness and infatuation. And this is the state to which many professors of religion are reduced. Others see their grey hairs, but they see them not : they have ceased to look into the glass of God's law, or to examine themselves : they have quieted their minds by some carnal expedient of business, or company, or by comparing themselves with others. Deplorable indeed is their condition ! and if they be not soon roused from their lethargy, they will have reason to wish they had never been born, or never seen the light of Gospel truth1.]
Address —
1. Those who are resting in a formal religion —
[Religion is a state of holy active exertion in the things pertaining to God. God says to us, " My son, give me thy
h 1 John ii. 11. Heb. hi. 13. 1 Tim. iv. 2. * 2 Pet. ii. 20, 21.