of conscience, if at any time the progress of evil has been im- peded by them. Whatever have been the means of preserving us from the actual commission of iniquity, the true source of our deliverance is the same : it must ultimately be traced to the providence or grace of God; and all the glory must be given to our heavenly Benefactor.]
3. Circumspection —
[When we consider how many temptations to evil present themselves to us on every side, and what depraved appetites lurk within us, we shall see reason to maintain continual vigi- lance and circumspection. It was wise in Job, who " made a covenant with his eyes, that he would not even look upon a maid"^." And Solomon has wisely cautioned us to let our eyes look strait forwards If we regarded only the danger of falling into open sin, this advice would be good : but when we reflect on our Lord's assertion, that an impure look will be considered by Amighty God as actual adultery, we had need to be on our guard against the very first assaults of evil: we should " watch and pray, that we enter not into temptation :" we should " keep," not our feet only, but " our hearts also, with all diligence ; knowing that out of them are the issues of life." Remember then what we have already spoken respecting the means and occasions of impurity. Guard against the books, the places, the compatiy, the conversation, that you have at any time perceived to be defiling to your souls. Be as careful of catching infection from those around you, as you would be if they were disordered with the plague. Go not into the world, without carrying with you, as an antidote, the fear of God. Come not from your intercourse with the world, without washing away your defilements in " the fountain opened for sin and for uncleanness." Be on your guard also against your secret thoughts ; remembering, that God is " a discerner of the thoughts and intents of your hearts," and that he will bring every secret thing into judgment, whether it be good or evil." It is awful to reflect, what evils will be disclosed in the last day, and what fearful judgments will be denounced on many, who in this world were reputed chaste. May God enable us all to walk as in his immediate presence ; and give us such a mea- sure of his grace, as shall " sanctify us wholly," and " preserve us blameless unto his heavenly kingdom ! "]
^^ Job xxxi. 1. « Prov. iv, 25.
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