To this he constantly directs his steps — [He is careful to inquire his way thither, and to prosecute his journey towards it every day he lives. Like the Patriarchs, he considers himself as a pilgrim and sojourner here : and, like them, whatever difficulties he meets with in the way, he presses forward, determining not to turn aside, or stop, till he has arrived within its gates'^. He looks to it as the rest that
a Heb. xi. 10, 16. ^ Heb. xii. 22. with John xiv. 2, 3.
c Rev. xxi. 10—23. " Heb. xi. 13— IG.
remaineth for him ; nor will he ever relax his labours, till he has attained it®. In this he may be clearly distinguished from all other persons. Others are desirous of finding somewhat of a present portion : but " he seeks one to come," and makes it the one great business of his life to secure it.]
This subject may be improved,
1. For our conviction —
[If this be practical Christianity, how little have we lived like Christians ! We have been ever ready to take up our rest in this world ; and for the most part have sought for nothing beyond it. The things of time and sense have had as much effect upon our minds as if they had been of lasting continu- ance; whilst the things of eternity have been disregarded, as though they had been altogether transient. Were it not that we see this conduct all around us, we should scarcely conceive it possible that rational beings should act so irrational a part. Let us lay it to heart, and humble ourselves before God ; and "set our affections henceforth on things above, and not on things below."]
2. For our consolation —
[We may, in the course of our pilgrimage, be oppressed with many troubles : but they are all of short continuance : whereas, the happiness which we have in prospect will abide with us for ever. This consideration makes every affliction appear light and momentary^; more especially when we reflect that " tribulation is the way to the kingdom ;" and that we are, like our blessed Lord himself, to be " made perfect through sufferings."]
3. For our direction —
[Bear in mind the emptiness and vanity of earthly things, and learn to sit loose to them ; " letting your moderation be Icnown unto all men^." In the use of them, be temperate; and, in the want of them, patient and resigned'^ And set before you " the prize of your high calling," as those did who contended in the Grecian games. Keep it ever in view ; and stop not till you have fully attained it. Then shall you have the approbation of your Judge ; and ere long be received into the bosom of your God.]
e Heb. iv. 1, 11. f 2 Cor. iv. 17, 18.
s Phil. iv. 5. '' 1 Cor. vii. 29—31.