456 Matthew, Xvi. 24, 25. [1376.

God or of man. Bring it to the test of Scripture, even though they should be apostles, or even angels, that offer it. That per- sons in their general habits are pious, is no reason that we should implicitly follov^^ their advice in every thing; for the best of men are fallible, and liable to be biassed by their inte- rests or passions : and if Satan can gain over them to his interests, he will make especial use of them for assaulting the holiest of men. By Eve he assaulted Adam ; and Job also by his wife ; and our Lord himself by his favourite Apostle, Peter. I say then. Whatever advice be given you, try it by the touch- stone of God's word : if it savour of carnal ease and worldly prudence, beware how you follow it : if, on the contrary, it evidently have the glory of God in view, beware how you reject it. The direction of God himself is, " Try the spirits, whether they are of God:" " To the word and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, there is no light in them :" " Prove all things and hold fast that which is good." We grant that, in many cases, it may not be easy to discern between good and evil : and the affection of the adviser may blind our eyes to the sinfulness of the advice. But if we our- selves are habitually savouring the things of God, we shall have a spii'itual discernment, which, like the senses of taste and smell, will enable us to perceive the noxious qualities of things, which in their outward appeai'ance are good and wholesome. But it is the privilege of all to have God himself for their guide : look therefore to him, and " he will direct your paths:" " He will guide you by his counsel, till at last he bring you to glory."