the same time its sweet savour, and its practical influence, " in all wisdom, and spiritual understanding."
And should not such be our prayer also for ourselves ? Let us not forget, that, while we aspire after divine knowledge, we must chiefly seek that which brings a feast to the soul, and endues it with a nice and accurate discernment of good and evil.]
II. In obedience to his commands —
[The more enlarged views the Christian has of divine truth, the more studious will he be to fulfil the will of God. And in his endeavours after holiness he will propose to himself the highest measure of obedience, and the noblest end. He will not limit himself to the rules prescribed by men ; nor will he aim merely at obtaining eternal happiness: but he will consider the relation he bears to God, and the obligations he has received from him, and the expectations which he has of future benefits; and will endeavour to " walk worthy of" such a Father, such a Redeemer, such an unspeakable Benefactor. He will resemble a dutiful and affectionate servant, who does not merely consider what he must do in order to escape cen- sure, and receive his wages, but what will please his Master. He inquires with himself, What will please my God ? That is the great object of his ambition : that is the spring of his activity : and with that view he endeavours to be " fruitful," not in some good works only, but " in every good work," however difficult or self-denying.
Suited to these dispositions was the Apostle's prayer: he desired for the Colossians what he knew they desired for them- selves, even " that they might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work." And it is certain, that in proportion as we have attained a just know- ledge of God's will, we shall desire, both for ourselves and others, an increase of righteousness and true holiness.]
III. In the enjoyment of his presence —
[" The knowledge of God" seems to be different from " the knowledge of his will," that has been before mentioned : the former relates to a view of his truth, and the latter to the enjoyment of his presence. In this sense the latter is not a mere repetition, but a blessing intimately connected with a holy life. Whom will God meet, and unto whom will he re- veal himself, but " him that rejoiceth in working righteous- ness*?" Yes; there are manifestations which such persons shall receive, and such manifestations as the world can form no idea of b. God will " shed abroad his love in the hearts" of his
a Isai. Ixiv. 5. b John xiv. 21, 23.