''offer the sacrifices of prayer and praise" in con- cert with our families. Abraham is commended for his attention to the religious concerns of his family1: and Joshua's noble resolution to maintain, both in his own soul and in his family, the worship of the true Godk, clearly shews, how important this part of a Christian's duty was considered among the saints of old. Nor can any expect the blessing of God upon their families, who will not unite with them in acknowledging the mercies they have already received. As for the public worship of God, none who have any regard for God's honour in the world can possibly neglect it.
The importance of occasional prayer may perhaps be not so clearly seen. But are there not frequent occasions when we need in a more especial manner the assistance of God ? If any thing have occurred that is gratifying to flesh and blood, do we not need to call upon God for grace, that we may not, Jeshurun like, " wax fat, and kick" against our heavenly Benefactor ? If, on the contrary, we are suddenly involved in any afflictive circumstances, do we not need to implore help from God, in order that we may bear with patience his paternal chastise- ments, and that the trial may be sanctified to our eternal good ? Sometimes indeed the seasons occur so instantaneously, that we have no time or oppor- tunity for a long address to God : but then we might lift up our hearts in an ejaculatory petition ; and in one short moment obtain from God the suc- cour we require. Look at the saints of old, and see how they prospered by a sudden elevation of their souls to God : David, by one short prayer, " Lord, turn the counsels of Ahithophel into foolishness," defeated the crafty advice he gave to Absalom : and caused him, through chagrin, to put a period to his own existence1. Jehoshaphat, by a single cry, turned back his pursuers, who, if God had not instantly
' Gen. xviii. 19. k Josh, xxiv. 15.
1 2 Sam. xv. 31. with xvii. 14, 2-3. VOL. XVII. L L