to " render nothing but good for evil," until they shall have "overcome the evil with their goodV]
4. In spirit —
[There is a peculiar need for young persons to guard against every thing of conceit and forwardness, and every dis- position that is contrary either to humility or love. Who does not admire modesty, and gentleness, and kindness, and all similar graces, which combine to render a person amiable? Let those graces then be ever cultivated, and ever in exercise, so that you may ever be seen " clothed with humility." This will do much to recommend religion : and this will render you worthy of imitation by all who behold you.]
5. In faith —
[There is in young persons too great a readiness to yield to discouragement, and to rely on an arm of flesh in times of more than ordinary trial. But you must look to God with all simplicity of mind, and confide in him, as engaged to make " all things work together for your good." Never must you stagger at any promise through unbelief; but be strong in faith, giving glory to God."]
6. In purity —
[The very regard which is first created by sympathy and concord on the subjects of religion, may, if not watched, dege- nerate into feelings of a less hallowed kind; and especially at a period of life when the passions are strong, and a want of ex- perience may put us off our guard. Every word and every look, yea, and every thought, ought to be well-guarded, in order that Satan may not take advantage of us, and that not even the breath of scandal may be raised against us.
In a word, the counsel given to Titus is that which every one of us should follow : " Young men exhort to be sober- minded; in all things shewing thyself a pattern of good worksg."]
Address —
1. Those who are inclined to take offence at religion or its professors —
[There is an extreme unreasonableness in many, who expect, that the very instant a person becomes religiously inclined, he shall be freed at once from every infirmity inci- dent to our fallen nature ; and however young he may be, he shall become at once as wise and judicious as the most expe- rienced Christian. But wisdom is not so soon attained ; nor are the corruptions of our nature subdued without many severe
f Rom. xii. 21. e Tit. ii. 6, 7.