reserve ; this is the one habit of his mind, and the one labour of his life. From day to day he does not his own will, or the will of an ungodly world ; but the will of God, as it is revealed in his blessed word.]
2. Suffering —
[This will always more or less attend a faithful discharge of our duty to God. There will now, as formerly, be seasons of comparative peace : but it is not possible for un regenerate men to love the light, whether it be set before them in the word, or be exhibited before them in the conduct of God's faithful servants. " The servant cannot be greater than his Lord :" if they called the Master of the house Beelzebub, those of his household must assuredly expect some opprobrious designation at the least. And though, in comparison of im- prisonment and death, this may be regarded as a light matter ; yet is it not light, when we consider, that the names with which the godly are designated, are a signal for the world to load them with every species of obloquy and contempt.]
3. Patience —
[Our blessed Lord was " as a sheep led to the slaughter," and, in the midst of all the indignities that were offered him, " opened not his mouth." And in this manner his faithful followers also " possess their souls in patience." They expect that they shall " have need of patience ;" and it is their en- deavour so to demean themselves under their trials, that " pa- tience may have its perfect work ; that so they may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."]
4. Glory—
[This is the object of their pursuit ; and to this they press forward with all their might. They know, that " if they draw back, it must be unto perdition ;" and that it is by believing only, and maintaining their faith with steadfastness, that they ever can be saved °. They are well assured, that the means must be used for the attainment of the end ; and that if used aright, the end shall be attained. They are well aware, that duty must be performed, suffering ex^^ecteA, patience exercised: and in this way they have no doubt but that glory shall be ultimately secured. " By a patient continuance in well-doing, they seek, and will obtain, eternal life."]
Application —
\. Let us be thankful for the peace that we are privileged to enjoy —
<^ ver. 38, 39.