the same time, we must take care to shew that we are really invigorated by this heavenly food, and fitted to prosecute our journey through this dreary wilderness. In a word, whilst we take it to ourselves as suitable, we must shew to others its sufficiency for all that our necessities can require. Let none despise this food. Whether we be old or young, rich or poor, learned or unlearned, Christ is alike needful for us, and will be alike sufficient for us. There is one peculiarity, however, in which the parallel fails, and must be turned into a contrast. Those who ate of that spiritual food died. But shall any one perish who feeds on Christ ? No, truly : whoever he may be, he shall become a monument of saving grace, and his soul shall live for ever.
And now, need I add any thing more to shew the importance of receiving Christ, and feeding upon him ? Alas ! alas ! the Israelites in the wilderness needed none to urge them to use the food provided for them, notwithstanding all the benefit to be de- rived from it was the prolongation of their bodily life, which must at all events terminate in a few years. But what exhortations and entreaties are necessary to induce us to feed on Christ, for the life of our souls ! Some feel no need of Christ, others pour contempt upon him, as unsuitable : others, again, think they must add to him, as insufficient : and few, very few, will live upon him, as " all their salvation, and all their desire." To those, however, who do see the suitableness and sufficiency of Christ, I would say, Gather up your portion of the manna daily, before the risen sun has had time to melt it ; and refresh yourselves with the living waters with exquisite delight : and, in the strength of this your food, go on your way rejoicing111. Yes, " as ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him, rooted and built up in him; and stablished in the faith as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving"."
1,1 1 Kings xix. 8. n Col. ii. 6, 7.