we have manifested in his service. The subjects of earthly monarchs will go to the very ends of the earth to preserve and to extend their territories. Life seems of no value to them, in comparison of the honour of their prince : to die in his cause appears an object of ambition rather than of dread : and the smallest testimony of his favour is deemed an ample recom- pence for all the dangers and difficulties that can be endured. Ah ! who does not blush at the consideration of these things ? If called to preach his Gospel to the heathen, who does not demur, and ask a thousand cpaestions, which shew, that our own ease is of more importance in our eyes than his honour ? Even a contemptuous look, or a reproachful name, or some little sacrifice of worldly interest, are often sufficient to deter us from embracing opportunities of exalting him. Whose con- science does not reproach him as shamefully deficient in duty to the best of Kings, and in gratitude towards the greatest of Benefactors ? Truly when we consider what sovereign mercy, what almighty power, and what unbounded grace have been exercised towards us, we maj well mourn and weep on the retrospect of every day, and at the review of every hour ]
3. Of thankfulness —
[We ought not to compare ourselves with others for the purpose of fostering self-preference and pride ; yet we may well take occasion from the state of all around us to admire and adore that grace which has caused us to differ from them. For though, in the view of our high attainments, we have need of humiliation, yet, in the view of our high privileges, we have cause for most exalted joy : and if we felt as we ought, our every act would be obedience, and our every word be praise.
Nor is there wanting abundant cause of thankfulness even to those who are yet in rebellion against him. What reason have they to bless his name, that he has not yet said, " Bring hither those mine enemies who would not that I should reign over them, and slay them before me !" What a blessing should they account it that his Gospel is yet sounding in their ears ; and that they may yet, if only they will repent and believe the Gospel, be partakers of his kingdom and glory ! People are apt to think us harsh and severe when we call them to repent- ance : but we call you to repentance and faith, not as duties, but as privileges. What a privilege would those who are now in hell account it, if they could have one more such message delivered to them from the Lord ! Know ye then, beloved, that " this is the accepted time :" I pray God, ye may find it also " the day of salvation,"]