[There is in every man a self-love, which renders him averse to view his own actions in an unfavourable light ; and a partiality that leads him to put the best construction upon them. If there be reason to doubt the purity of our own intentions, we do not like to bring matters to the test, and to weigh our actions in the balance of the sanctuary. If a friend attempt to undeceive us, we shrink from the probe, and would gladly avoid the painful scrutiny. Were we told that there was some hidden fire likely to consume our house, we should search into every corner, and thankfully accept every assistance to discover it, in order that it might be extinguished before it had gained too great an ascendancy. But if a friend would point out the evil of our hearts, we are glad to conceal it from his view, and to harbour, rather than detect, the lurking foe. Even in the public ministry of the word, we are apt to think how suitable such and such admonitions are for others, instead of applying them to ourselves : and hence we continue in an evil way, persuading ourselves that we are influenced by a good spirit, while our most discerning friends lament the delusions which they cannot hinder.]
It will be of no small benefit to us to consider seriously,
II. How we may counteract its baneful influence —
Doubtless, it is easier to prescribe means to others than to use them ourselves —
But, as God works by means, we would suggest such as may prove most effectual —
1. Let every grace receive a due portion of our attention —
[Many in their concern for one grace will trample upon another : in the exercise of zeal, they will forget charity ; and, in maintaining confidence, will overlook humility and fear. The ungodly indeed are necessitated often to thwart one propensity, while they indulge another g; but all the graces of Christianity may be exercised together, and in their highest perfection : every one tempers and limits that which appears opposite to it ; and all, like the rays of the sun, must be combined, to produce their full effect.]
2. Let every part of Scripture be regarded with equal reverence —
s To gratify their lusts, they must expose their character and dissi- pate their fortune ; or if the love of reputation or of money prepon- derate, they must impose a restraint on their appetites.