and his people : we should resolutely withstand the efforts of ungodly men, and maintain against all opposition the immutable laws of equity and love.]
2. From that part of his character which is un- questionably bad —
[Here also we will mention two things ; namely, not to be indifferent about the concerns of others, and not to be lukewarm in the concerns of our own souls.
Doubtless we are not to be " busy-bodies in other men's matters ;" but, on the other hand, we are not to say, " Am I my brother's keeper?" We are told " not to look every man on his own things ; but every man also on the things of others a." If in temporal matters we can benefit our fellow- creatures, we are " debtors to them," to do them all the good in our power. And, if we may advance their spiritual interests, we should account no labours too great, nor any sufferings too heavy to be encountered in so good a cause. This sentiment has of late gained a currency in this kingdom, beyond all that could ever have been expected. What exertions have not been made in sending missions to the heathen ; in disseminating the Holy Scriptures throughout the world ; and in educating the children of the poor, that they may be able to read the words of life ! For the children of Abraham also, that de- based, but highly interesting people, are efforts now used ; and, we trust, will be used to a yet greater extent amongst us. The concern expressed also through the land for our fellow-subjects in India is highly creditable to the nation. But still there is abundant room for the display of our benevolence in every place where our lot is cast : and we cannot but ear- nestly pray, that it may no longer be said of any amongst us, " They mind every man his own things, and not the things that are Jesus Christ's13."
But, in order to maintain a zeal for the good of others, we must begin at home, and cherish a concern for our own souls. To keep the garden of others will be of little avail, if we neglect to cultivate our own c. The salvation of our own souls must be our first and great concern : in comparison of this, the whole world should be of no value in our eyes. Let us then regard the Lord Jesus Christ, and an interest in him, as " the pearl of great price," for which we are readily to part with all that we possess. " Whatever our hand findeth to do in reference to our eternal state, let us do it with all our might." Let us "strive to enter in at the strait gate;" remembering, that " many seek to enter in, but are not able." Let us bear in mind, that no rank or station of life can exempt us from the
a Phil. ii. 4. b Phil. ii. 21. c Cant. i. 6.