for the ministry that probes you to the quick, and that consults your benefit rather than your approbation.]
2. Of personal integrity —
[Self-love inclines us always to view ourselves more fa- vourably than we ought. If we are conscious of some secret evil, we excuse ourselves as much as possible, in order to dis- sipate all fear of future punishment. If we hear that evil exposed, we are rather led to contemplate it in others, than to view it in ourselves : or if constrained to advert to our own case, we condemn the minister, either as personal, or as too severe. But what folly is this ! If we had reason to appre- hend that we had caught the plague, should we not be anxious to ascertain the truth, in order that we might counteract the infection, and escape its baneful effects ? Why then are we not equally solicitous to know the state of our souls before God? Why will we shut our eyes against the light? What harm can arise from knowing what God has said concerning us? O put not from you, brethren, the word of life ! Rather come hither, in order that you may be probed ; in order that there may be no evil in you undiscovered. Examine yourselves with all imaginable care. Be afraid of nothing so much as being left in ignorance, and deceiving your own souls. When we speak the severest truths, apply them, not to others, but your- selves : take them as a light wherewith to search your own hearts : and beg of God to aid you by his Holy Spirit. Let David's prayer be ever on your lips : " Search me, O God, and know my heart ; try me, and know my thoughts : and see if there be any wicked way in me ; and lead me in the way everlasting."]