2. In our joys and sorrows —
[Though it is true, that the mass of mankind are chiefly influenced by what is future, yet there are circumstances wherein a few give up themselves altogether to their present emotions. The voluptuary imagines that he cannot drink too deep of the cup of pleasure; and the mourner, that he cannot yield too much to the anguish of his mind. Both are alike deaf to good advice : the one refuses to be counselled ; the other, to be comforted. But "moderation" is the frame which best befits the Christian. He is not insensible to the feelings of humanity ; nor is he forbidden to rejoice or grieve, according as the one or other of these emotions is suited to his state. But an equableness of mind is that which he should cultivate under all circumstances : he should not suffer himself to be too much elevated or depressed by present things. His joy should be in God : his sorrows should be chiefly called forth by his own short-comings and defects : and he should be so filled with a sense of the infinite importance of things eternal, as to rise superior to all the vanities of this lower world. St. Paul, in a few verses after the text, informs us how he was affected by the changes which he experienced: "I have learned," says he, "in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 1 know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound : every- where, and in all things, I am instructed, both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer needb." Thus it should be with us also : we should be like men of another world, mere pilgrims and sojourners here ; thankful for the ac- commodations which we meet with on the road ; and not cast down, if we find some inconveniences; but mainly intent on our journey to a better country, and studious to improve all present circumstances so as most to advance us in our meetness for the heavenly inheritance.]
3. In our spirit and conduct —
[There is in mankind at large, a very undue degree of confidence, both as to the sentiments they embrace, and the line of conduct which they pursue. Every one is ready to fancy himself infallible, and to account all deceived and perverse who differ from him. Hence arises, in the generality, a vehemence in asserting their own opinions, and an intolerance towards those who differ from them. But this disposition of mind must be studiously avoided by every true Christian. There should be in the whole of our sentiments and demeanour, a diffidence which inclines us to suspect ourselves, and a candour which disposes us to make all due allowance for others. Doubt- less it becomes us to be thoroughly persuaded in our own
»> ver. 11, 12. i2